Student News

Prep

Shapes, shapes everywhere! We are learning all about shapes. Some have curved lines, and some have straight lines. We are counting the number of sides a shape has, and we went on a shape hunt in the classroom using magnifying glasses! 

We found lots of things that are the same as a circle.

Mrs Henderson found the clock.

Liam found the counters.

Allie found the emotions wheel

We also found lots of things that are the same as a rectangle.

Ellie found the Days of the Week cards.

Riley found their tubs.

Maya found the DRA pictures.

We can make shapes using playdough and sticks - look at our squares and other shapes we can make.

Grades 1& 2

 Fun with Measuring!

The Grade 1 and 2 students have been making the most of the beautiful weather this term by taking their maths learning outdoors. As part of our measurement unit, students have been exploring both formal and informal ways to measure objects, distances, and even parts of their bodies!

Using rulers, blocks, footsteps, and other everyday items, students have been developing their understanding of length and size through hands-on activities and collaborative learning. It has been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and curiosity as they investigate measurement in the world around them.

Grades 3&4

During Inquiry Week 4, students explored stories of the First Fleet, including the reasons for the journey, who travelled to Australia, and the experiences people faced following arrival. Students participated in class discussions to share and build on their prior knowledge about the First Fleet. They also investigated what life was like in England during the 1700s and researched the events that led to the transportation of convicts to Australia.

Students demonstrated their understanding by creating informative posters that answered questions such as:

• When did the First Fleet leave England?
• When did they arrive in Botany Bay?
• Why did the First Fleet travel to Australia?
• Who was transported?
• What were the conditions like on the ships?

Grades 5 & 6

The 5/6 team has had a busy and exciting few weeks filled with creativity, learning, and teamwork across many areas of the curriculum.

Our recent Open Afternoon was a fantastic success, with students, families, parents, and friends all getting involved in a fun and challenging word activity. Participants worked together to create completely random words and then tried to explain their meanings using their understanding of morphology and word origins. Morphology is the study of morphemes, which are the smallest parts of a word that carry meaning. For example, the word “unhappy” contains the morphemes “un-” meaning “not” and “happy.” Using this knowledge, students created imaginative new words and justified their meanings based on the morphemes they used. It was wonderful to see everyone thinking creatively and sharing their ideas while learning about how language works.

In Maths, the 5/6 students have been exploring 3D shapes and how they are constructed. We began by investigating 2D nets and examining how flat shapes can fold together to create three-dimensional objects. The classroom was filled with impressive models and lots of problem-solving as students applied their mathematical thinking in a hands-on way.

During our Literacy and English blocks, students have been reading the book Us Mob Walawurru. The story follows a group of children learning about culture, Country, identity, and connection through the wisdom of Elders and community. As we read, students have been introduced to many new and meaningful words, helping to expand their vocabulary and deepen their understanding of the text. We have also had important discussions about the book’s themes, including belonging, respect for culture, community connections, and the importance of listening and learning from others’ experiences.

Following our recent camp to Sovereign Hill, students have also been learning about the history of Australia and the impact of the Gold Rush. We have explored what life was like during this important time in Australian history and discussed how the Gold Rush helped shape the development of the country. In the coming weeks, students will begin researching and writing fact files about famous historical figures who played important roles during the Gold Rush era.

It has been wonderful to see students so engaged, curious, and willing to challenge themselves in their learning across all subjects.

Visual Arts 

The Grade 5 and 6 students have been building sculptures using a wire armature, newspaper and plaster bandage. The students designed a theme for their letter and decorated it over several weeks of Art sessions.

LOTE

Emily T won the second prize in the Etegami Postcard Art Contest at the Japan Festival, held on Sunday, 24 May, at Box Hill Town Hall.

The Primary Division was the most competitive category, with more than 300 participants. Emily put in a great deal of effort right up until the last minute. Well done, Emily! Not only your family, but also the Kalinda community is very proud of you.

In May, Japan celebrates Children’s Day. Parents wish for their children to be healthy and resilient, just like carp fish that swim strongly upstream.

The students created carp; Koinobori using origami. In hiragana, they wrote the names of family members, such as “father,” “mother,” and “sister.” In katakana, they wrote their own names, and in kanji, they wrote the date of Children’s Day.

Performing Arts 

I would like to congratulate our students on their outstanding performance at Hamer Hall. They took to the stage in front of an audience of more than 2,100 people. Performing in such a prestigious venue is an incredible achievement, and our students rose to the occasion with confidence and enthusiasm.

Students involved in the massed choir performed four impressive songs, demonstrating not only their musical talent but also their ability to collaborate as part of a large ensemble. The choristers had previously worked with students from other schools to learn and rehearse the repertoire, and it was great to see their hard work pay off. It was also lovely to watch the friendships between students from different participating schools emerge, with students socialising and getting to know each other during breaks and even on the train ride to and from the city. 

Our Highland dance group captivated the audience with their energy, precision, and strong stage presence, showcasing the results of their dedication and practice. They looked fabulous, and we would like to say a huge thank you to Melissa Luke, who for many years now has costumed our Highland dancers. 

We had many comments on how marvellous they looked, and much of that is thanks to Melissa. The Highland dancers performed to Tribal King by Clann An Drumma. Clann An Drumma are a band from Glasgow known for their powerful blend of Highland bagpipes and tribal drumming, and our dancers certainly matched this high-energy music. 

Cheryl, our amazing Highland dance teacher, has been working with the dancers for quiet some time now, and I would like to thank her for her tireless work and her never-ending passion. We are so lucky to have you here at Kalinda. 

Cheryl was unfortunately unable to attend on the day due to illness, and we were very lucky to have Tiahna join us. Tiahna has a background in performance and specifically in highland dancing and we were particularly grateful for expertise and her passion. 

The day was a long one, with extensive rehearsals followed by a late evening performance. Despite the demands, all performers showed remarkable bravery, persistence, and professionalism throughout. Their commitment and positive attitude were evident both on and off the stage, and they represented Kalinda wonderfully.

We are immensely proud of each and every student who represented the school so admirably. Their efforts made this a memorable and inspiring experience for all involved.

Mrs Sarah Butler