Term 1 - Unit of Inquiry - Our Senses

As part of our Senses Unit of Inquiry, our Pre-K learners explored the sense of smell through an engaging “mystery scent” investigation. Carefully prepared paper bags concealed a range of familiar fragrances, inviting the children to pause, inhale thoughtfully, and reflect on what their noses were discovering.

The room was filled with rich descriptive language as the girls shared their observations — “lovely,” “nice “fresh,” “yucky,” “like my garden,” and “like my kitchen in the morning.” They compared scents, debated whether they were pleasant or unpleasant, and justified their thinking with growing confidence. Some changed their minds after a second smell, demonstrating flexible thinking and curiosity.

This sensory provocation sparked authentic problem-solving as the girls drew on memory, made connections to prior experiences, and used reasoning to identify each fragrance. Through collaborative discussion, they refined their ideas, listened to differing perspectives, and celebrated the joy of discovery.

This hands-on exploration strengthened not only their understanding of the sense of. smell, but also their vocabulary development, critical thinking, and confidence in expressing ideas.

PLC Armidale Pre-K girls’ creativity and character is nurtured through Music, Language, Performing Arts, Christian Studies and a wide range of arts and crafts.