Welcome to our class blog. The purpose of this blog is to provide information about all the fabulous adventures we are having in 5/6H this year.
The year started off with a big surprise, when the students found out that I would be their teacher. I have previously taught in the junior school, but I am very excited to be teaching the senior students. Thankfully the students are all excited about having 'the pinkest teacher' (quote from Ryan).
My aim for the blog is to involve the students in updating weekly so as parents and carers are able to keep up with our learning. We will be posting pictures, so please ensure you return the permission to publish note that was included in last weeks news letter.
This term we will be studying the following topics in our KLA's;
English - Our writing focus is descriptions. We have started the term looking at descriptions of Bali. We will finish the term by exploring Aboriginal culture. Our comprehension focus will be Making Connections, Summarising and Questioning. We are currently reading the wonderful children's book Bridge to Terabithia.
Maths - We are studying number including addition, subtraction, division and multiplication. In general the students have a very basic knowledge of multiplication tables. We have started a multiplication challenge in class and it is pleasing to see the progress the students are already making.
Creative Arts - Arts of cultural groups. This will include dance, music and visual arts of the Balinese and Aboriginal Australians.
HSIE - We are studying Bali with particular emphasis on culture and religion.
Science - is being taught by Mrs Munroe.
PDHPE - Our area of focus in sport is Cooperative games, Dance, Basketball and Football. We are also looking at road safety and healthy eating.
Homework - this will be set each week. I do not believe in setting large amounts of homework and it should take no more than 5 minutes each night to complete the set worksheets. Each child has received weekly reading records. Students are required to read for 10 minutes each night and return the reading slip on Fridays. Students who fulfill all their homework obligations for the term will receive a free pizza lunch. Smaller incentives will be given to students who return homework most of the time.
As a teacher my personal goals for the year are to be more organised in the classroom. This fits in well with our You Can Do It! term focus. Please assist your child in being organised at school by ensuring they have everything they need for school. A big thank you to parents who have supplied tissues, 'post it notes' and paper for our classroom. Extra donations of paper and 'post it notes' in particular will be welcomed.
I am also focused on making healthy food choices to help set an example to the students in 56H. I am a huge chocolate fan and my challenge is not to eat chocolate at school.
We have started discussing the food choices we are making. Many of the children are bringing food that falls in to the 'red light' or eat 'occasionally' food, to school daily. Please help your child to make informed food choices by supplying them with a range of healthy options for school, which will have long term health effects and help improve their performance at school in the short term. I am trying to source a small fridge for the classroom for student use. If you are able to help with this item please contact me.
Our first excursion is planned for week 10 this term. The overnight excursion will be an exciting and valuable learning experience for your child. We have tried to keep the cost as low as possible. All the activities while in Sydney will be free and include visiting major tourist sites around the CBD. Please have your deposit paid by the due date as we need to pay a deposit for the accommodation.
Thanks for reading :)
Hope you are having a fabulous day
Natalie
