Pecanwood 25 May 2017

The College is set in the tranquil basin of the Hartbeespoort Dam. Standing next to the hall one is presented with a majestic vista of the mountains surrounding the dam providing a tranquil setting for a school. The buildings are spread out which is in stark contrast to many of the schools that I have visited in the past.

I must have had a moment of weakness as I found a few bench seats next to the hall and arranged them around a table in the early morning sun for most of the learners to sit on. There were signs of frost on route to the dam area but the warmth of the sun was welcome.

The Grade 9 learners arrived on time and I was immediately struck by their politeness. Like all other schools they settled into the demonstration and were eager to engage in the discussions. Four students soon identified themselves as being above average and were quick to offer in depth solutions.

I have become fascinated by two areas that needs further investigation. During the discussion of electrolysis I was informed by the learners that they had been taught the theory. When it can to the practical they were very sketchy. Using a Hoffman’s Apparatus to demonstrate electrolysis it is usually a very slow process taking several hours while the equipment available for the CEE demonstration works exceptionally well. Given the fact that it was a well resourced school one would expect the learners should be more informed.

The second issue relates to translating theory into practice. I often mention the fact that I am based in Port Elizabeth and ask the learners which way I have to go to get home. Several directions are offered and when I ask them to point in the direction of South West they battle. To help clarify the situation I ask them to point out the four points of the compass. East and West are relatively easy but when it comes to pointing out North the answers is generally pointing upwards. My conclusion is that they are taught map work with North drawing upwards on the board but they are not given any real world practical application of the knowledge.

I was however, encouraged by the fact that the learners had actually made wind turbines to generate electricity in the Technology classes. I look forward to Pecanwood participating in the competition.