The Stock Market Challenge took Balliol by storm this week, whilst Theatre Workout got students performing and an excursion to the Natural History Museum provided a cultural experience.

Stock Market Challenge

ORA pupils at Balliol had the option to join the notoriously fun Stock Market Challenge as their Masterclass choice this week.

Intended to provide students with an understanding of the ever-changing world of stocks and shares, the Challenge encourages small teams to try their hand at trading with each other as the market fluctuates behind them.

Buying and selling shares – some at profits and others at losses – was a thrilling activity as everyone frantically ran around to make quick transactions before the market fluttered out of favour.

As intended, the Challenge gave students an insight into the trading world through a fun and engaging Masterclass that was enjoyed by all.

Theatre Workout

For those with little interest in market trading, the Theatre Workout class was a pleasing alternative.

The class provided students with a series of useful tips and tricks to aid in performing on stage. Armed with an exciting repertoire of new techniques, pupils then participated in a variety of acting activities to refine their skills.

Though at first many were shy, after a few minutes with the guidance of the Theatre Workout crew, students were volunteering to perform and joined in eagerly. It was great fun and lots of laughter was heard erupting from the room.

Natural History Museum, Oxford

Full of animal specimens, minerals, skeletons and gems, the marvellous Natural History Museum of Oxford is a popular site for tourists. Wanting to experience Oxford to the fullest, students were keen to join a trip to the Museum and explore its collections.

The extensive displays of mounted butterflies amazed with their gorgeous and vibrant colouring and the immense collection of minerals and gems dazzled pupils as they wandered by.

A highlight, however, was the famous Oxford Dodo, one of the Museum’s most renowned specimens. Discovered by humans in 1598 and extinct by 1680, Dodos have fascinated scientists for many years as no complete skeleton exists. Analysis on the Oxford Dodo, however, revealed that the closest living relative of the creatures was the modern Nicobar pigeon, bringing us closer to understanding these baffling animals. Students were intrigued by the story of the Dodo and enjoyed learning about its ancestry and history.

With the end-of-week parties arriving tomorrow night, ORA at Balliol prepare to host a mad tea party with the Alice in Wonderland theme. Check back next week for pictures!