News from the Nest - December 18 - 30

Be sure to check out the PDF attachment for our full version with pictures! News From the Nest Dec 18-30 - Full Version

Spotlight on Learning: Finding Engagement in Life Sciences 11 - Janelle Dick

Every class I hope to see students lean into the learning and take risks to present their new knowledge in new and creative ways.  These are a few examples of lessons that engaged the students in a noticeable way. 

4 types of viruses made out of a random box of supplies. For this activity, even reluctant learners participated and the result was a more memorable lesson and relaxing teaching experience. After the models were assembled, I roamed the room and asked each student to verbally name the parts and functions represented in their structure as an on the spot assessment for learning. Any errors or omissions in the student’s understanding were quickly corrected by our conversation and I knew if they were ready to move on to the next topic.  

Connecting Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) in Indigenous Creation stories with Western Science. Students were given the opportunity to use the organisms represented in an Indigenous Creation story of their choice to show TEK and connections to Evolution. Students were also allowed to represent their learning in different formats including Essay or Slideshow. 

WJ Mouat claims top prize in Drama!

WJ Mouat secondary took home top prize at the Upper Fraser Valley Drama Festival on Dec 6th for their play “That Funny Feeling” - a play build around student mental health during Covid lockdown. They will be bringing the show to provincials in May. Special awards went to Best Stage Manager Purnima Verma and Best Actor to Alvin Swarup. 

Spirit Week!

 This week our Leadership group wrapped up another successful spirit week! On Monday we saw Candy Cane Colors, Tuesday was Holiday Sweater Day, Wednesday was Holiday Accessories day, Thursday was Canada D’eh and Friday was Pajama Day.  Thank you leadership for organizing and thank you to all the students and staff that participated!

Grad vs Staff Hockey Game

 Thank you to Mr Matty and all the grads that worked hard to make our annual hockey game a success!  It was a hard-fought battle and the grads rallied with a couple of late goals but the staff came out on top with a 6-4 victory.  Thank you to all the players and the wonderful crowd that cheered on both teams!

Mouat’s Character Values

Mouat’s Core Values were established over a 2-month process in spring 2011 including staff and student forums.  Below we have listed those values – you can read more on our website here.

RESPECT

Self-discipline, courtesy and upholding the dignity of others are qualities that define respectful people

RESPONSIBILITY

Taking responsibility means being accountable for your actions, your words and your obligations.

INTEGRITY

Integrity is a commitment to honesty that is clear because actions are consistent with stated beliefs or promises. Honest, truthful, trustworthy people have integrity.

CARING

Caring is both an action and a state of mind that demonstrates kindness and sensitivity to others.

AWARENESS

Having awareness means being informed about school, community and global issues, identifying with the needs of others, and considering all points of view

TEAMWORK

Teamwork is working collaboratively and cooperatively to attain a shared goal.