Gobabis at the coast
Learners from Wennie du Plessis Secondary School in Gobabis recently travelled to Swakopmund to conduct a few experiments.The aim of the field trip was to prepare the learners for the examinations and for them to physically perform experiments. They were taught how to measure a beach profile while the ocean was right next to them.
Swakopmund was chosen because the practical experiment needed to be done at the beach and it is the closest coast to Gobabis.
The coastal town also has ideal beaches which made it easier to carry out the experiments.
The learners observed the long shore drift on the Namibian coast, and observed and analysed beach pebbles in terms of size and smoothness. The experiments were conducted during high tide and low tide.
According to the learners, they experienced a few challenges but it did not interfere with the results. One major obstacle was the wind because it disrupted the angle reading on the meter by blowing the strings. In spite of this, learners managed to get their work done. They also took time to learn how sand dunes are formed in the Namib Desert.
The teachers who accompanied the learners said that the experiments made everything clear to them, adding that physically doing the practical tests and not just reading about it, will have a lasting effect on the learners.
It was not just work for the learners; they also enjoyed the beach and ocean while spending time at the coast. According to them the trip also helped them build friendships and stronger bonds with each other.
The learners were accommodated at Namib High School.