Resource Support, Knowledge Integration: A 2023 LRC Oceania Intercontinental Carnival Series Recap

Whenever we refer to the LRC, many students might think it stands for Learning and Reading Center, primarily a place for self-study and reading. However, this is not quite the case. LRC stands for Learning Resource Center. Here, books are just one part of the numerous learning resources. Audiovisual materials and various interdisciplinary, cross-grade, and cross-departmental activities are crucial reasons attracting students to come.

With the arrival of the Oceania Carnival in our Primary School Division, the librarians at our LRC underwent some brainstorming and devised a series of exciting and diverse activities, aiming to expand and supplement students’ classroom learning.

Week 1: Oceania Themed Books & Learning Resources Exhibition

Combining the inquiry themes of each grade in our Primary School Division, the LRC prepared book lists in Chinese and English for different reading levels. The themes covered flora and fauna, culture and traditions, geography and environmental protection, as well as the art and history of Oceania, catering to the diverse reading and learning needs of the students.

In addition, students could come to the LRC during their noon break to watch documentaries. Before each viewing, librarians posed questions related to the day’s theme, sparking curiosity and aiding in background knowledge enhancement. After watching, the librarians invited students to share the most memorable segments and the new knowledge they had acquired.

From static to dynamic resources, a variety of learning materials had initiated the students’ journey into Oceania. They lingered in front of books, marveled during the documentary viewing process, and everything their gaze fell upon left them feeling fresh and amazed.

Week 2: Oceania-themed Storytelling

Every second week of November marked the highly anticipated “Intercontinental Storytelling Week.” ‘Story Moms’ arrived on campus with meticulously prepared picture books, offering students immersive and highly interactive storytelling sessions.

For instance, Max introduced the dietary culture of Oceania, offering a unique experience for lower-grade students who were exploring Oceania’s culture and traditions.

The Great Barrier Reef was a non-fiction book. ‘Story Moms’ intricately detailed the formation of the Great Barrier Reef and the marvelous marine life within it for Grade 4 and 5 students. Listening attentively, they conveniently applied their knowledge to the inquiry theme of “Oceania Geography”.

Hello, Lighthouse, a recipient of the 2019 Caldecott Medal, told the real story of a lighthouse keeper. Grade 2 and 3 students, through ‘Story Moms’ narration, grasped the meanings of “focus”, “responsibility”, and “courage.”

I’m Going to See the Ocean was a story written by a New Zealand children’s book author, focusing on the theme of rediscovering freedom and oneself. Bertha and Bear talked about courage, friendship, and family, written by Australian author Christine Sharp. We managed to find the audio recording personally read by the author on her official website at https://www.christinesharp.com/bertha-and-bear, providing students with the opportunity for bilingual comparative reading.

The storytelling sessions closely aligned with the theme of Oceania, offering students not only knowledge growth and expanded horizons but also influencing their thinking.

Week 3: Oceania Themed Arts and Crafts

Art, music, and dance are indispensable elements in the indigenous cultures of Oceania. “Culture and Tradition” was the inquiry theme for lower grade students. To support these activities, the LRC organized a mask-creating activity for middle and high grade students, inviting them to use brushes to depict the thematic colors of Oceania as they see it.

Similarly, for lower-grade levels not yet exploring geography, the LRC arranged a special session for making aurora bottles. Laser paper was used to simulate the aurora phenomenon. This type of paper, when exposed to light, creates a rainbow effect due to the diffraction of light. “Wow! Look at this paper! It’s so beautiful, with so many colours in the sunlight!” exclaimed the lower-grade students after completing their aurora bottles.

The young artists participating in the craft activities showcased exceptional creative talents, gaining not only an extension of knowledge and skills beyond Art and STEAM classes but also an enjoyable understanding of Oceania’s indigenous culture and natural wonders.

Week 4: Oceania Knowledge Quiz and Treasure Hunt

After a month of learning and exploration, how well did students understand Oceania? Let’s put it to the test with a knowledge quiz and treasure hunt! The knowledge quiz challenged students’ understandings of Oceania’s geography, wildlife, and environmental conservation.

How long is a newborn kangaroo? What is the national bird of New Zealand? How do you pronounce “Oceania”? What is the running speed of an emu? Students eagerly searched their knowledge vaults, competing to answer questions, all serving to create a lively and spirited atmosphere!

Cross-week Activity: “Fantastic Beasts of Oceania” Posters

Our cross-week submission period lasted for three weeks, and in the end we received a total of 40 submissions! After investigating Oceania’s animals’ physical features, behaviours, the year of their initial discovery, and conservation status, students then personally crafted descriptive posters. We have set up an online exhibition where you can scan the QR code below to appreciate the outstanding works of the students.

The LRC’s Oceania Intercontinental Carnival series has come to a successful conclusion with enthusiastic participation from students across all grades. We hope that through these activities, we’ve sparked a keen interest and curiosity in learning about Oceania, deepening students’ understanding of this captivating region in the South Pacific. The LRC remains committed to providing rich learning resources to all students, and we invite everyone to explore them regularly!