On Friday the 19th of September, the curious boys and girls from 5th and 6th class went to an exciting Heritage morning in the ATU Sligo. We enjoyed a sunny and cheerful walk to the venue and everyone was feeling excited to find out what we were going to learn that day.
The day began with a fascinating taster of archaeology. We learned so many wonderful, astonishing facts about the medieval times. For example, sharp-eyed children made chainmail because they had better eyesight than adults and a bow and arrow made with hawk or goose feathers could fly up to 300m. We got to see and hold a variety of heavy, shiny, ancient artefacts such as bassinets, Irish swords, shields and gauntlets.
Soon after, we learned about willow weaving. Did you know that willow is soaked in water for 2 weeks to make it flexible for weaving? Also, to grow willow you place a branch in soil rather than using seeds. How amazing! We were shown how to make a variety of clever, playful baskets, funny hats and colorful hanging decorations.
After lunch, we went outside to learn about trees and plants such as the tall hawthorn, leafy goat willow, giant beech, slender birch, twisty crab apple and mighty oak. We learned about an Irish myth in which if you cut down a hawthorn tree, you would be brought bad luck by the fairies who lived there. We also learned how to make some games using the branches from the trees.
We had such a wonderful day and on our walk back to the school we enjoyed a tasty ice-cream.
By 5th Class.
