Flight inquiry takes off

Learning about the principles of flight, and the extraordinary adventures of Jean Batten, one of New Zealand’s most famous aviators, have been exciting inquiries for Year 7 students, says teacher, Bridget Preston. “The students really enjoyed these topics, which have been integrated across a range of subjects, from Science to Social Studies, English, and Art. These crosscurricular connections have made the learning really meaningful.”

A visit to the Air New Zealand Engineering Department on Orchard Road, reinforced the student’s learning in their Flight unit, she says. “The students were able to see an aircraft up close in the hangar, and aircraft engineers spoke to them about how a plane stays in the air, focusing on the principles of flight and the role of the pilots. The students were able to ask the questions they had prepared beforehand. It was a fantastic trip.”

Investigating the physical features of birds that help them to fly was another important part of the inquiry, along with learning about Jean Batten, who was celebrated around the world for her heroic solo flights in the 1930s. “The students were captivated by Jean’s story, the records she set, the obstacles she faced, and how she defied the odds. Although her mother supported her, her father didn’t want her to become a pilot because she was female.”

Students were encouraged to explore Jean’s story in many creative ways, including reading stories, writing haiku poetry, researching and presenting their PowerPoint presentations, and engaging in a group problem-solving task to find her missing medal.

The Year 7–8 Visual Art students were also able to choose between creating a Jean Batten or ‘flight’ themed image during a printmaking unit with Art teacher, Kathryn Meyers, which focused on etching. “During the first session, the students decided on a composition and used an etching tool to scratch out the picture. The second session was the printing lesson, where they learnt to ink their printing plate, soak their printmaking paper, and use the printing press to create a successful, even print,” says Kathryn.

Overall, these multifaceted inquiries into the fascinating world of flight were both educational and fun for the Year 7 students, says Bridget.

Visiting the Air New Zealand Engineering Department. Sophie Schouten (Year 7) with her Jean Batten artwork. Teaching and Learning