October in Year 9, has been stressful yet full of interest and excitement; filled with lots of field trips and fun projects.

In English, we are continuing to read our way through Harper Lee’s, To Kill A Mockingbird.  So far we have arrived at chapter 18. We are currently working on writing an essay on the acts of heroism that are present in chapter 15.   The theme of racism helps us understand that stereotyping and mistreating people just based on the color of their skin is incorrect. We are all humans and should all be treated equally.  Let’s read more to find out if Tom Robinson is tried as guilty.

In history, we just finished studying the English Civil war between Charles I and the Parliament. And started to read about the tragic event that happened on the 5th November 1605.  So what really happened on this infamous date? Let’s start from the beginning, on November 5th Guy Fawkes was caught red-handed below Parliament in the cellars with a box of matches and piles of gunpowder surrounding him, ready to blow up Parliament.  Yet this version, fabricated by members of the Kings staff, might not be liable. In fact, there are many incoherences with this story.

In geography, we have just finished studying globalisation.  In class, we had a debate to discuss whether the movement of transnational companies (TNCs) into lesser economically developed countries (LEDCs) is a good or bad thing.  We have just moved on to International development – including, why poor countries are poor and why rich countries are rich.

In science, we have recently watched two documentaries called Animal Farm 1 and 2 where we learned how animals are crossbred to make stronger, fatter animals.  

In P.E we started playing an altered version of dodge-ball which is very competitive and more fun.  Instead of getting back in the game by hitting a player all we have to do is catch the ball in mid-air.  Our last game lasted 45 minutes! Can you believe it? Let’s just say that we were exhausted and very sweaty after that match.  

In music, we’re currently studying African-American music such as work songs, spirituals, and gospels.  Turns out many of the rhythms that are found in these old songs are also used in modern day pop and techno music.  

Anyways, that’s all for this month.  See you next month and happy Halloween!

Marta and (ahem) Sarah