The Learning Zone

"Coming together is the beginning, staying together is progress,

and working together is success." - Henry Ford

NAPLAN: Year 3 and Year 5

Well done to all students in Years 3 and 5 who completed the NAPLAN Writing, Reading and Conventions of Language assessments, with the final test tomorrow - Numeracy. We are proud of your hard work and positive attitude to succeed. 

NAPLAN results are usually provided to schools in August with individual student results sent home as soon as they are received. The same report format is used for every student in Australia.  More information about student reports can be found here: Student Reports.  A reminder that the NAPLAN results are only one of many ways that teachers gain information about students' strengths and what the next steps are to continue in their learning journey.

Armidale Diocesan Mathematics Initiative (MaST)

Once again this year our whole school from K-6 are part of an Armidale Diocesan Mathematics Initiative known as the MaST Project. Please see the information below to assist your child at home.

As part of the MaST Project we use The CPA (Concrete Pictorial Abstract) approach to help students visualise and understand questions in Mathematics. Research suggests that when using the CPA approach, student motivation is increased and performance, specifically in problem-solving, is improved.

Concrete Phase

The most physically active part of learning. Students work with mathematical equipment to explore a new concept or solve problems. 

Pictorial Phase

Students move from manipulating concrete mathematical equipment to sketching representations and then on to familiar drawn models. Students are able to draw and reinforce the conceptual links between physical objects, sketches and abstract mathematics.

Abstract Phase

Abstract is the “symbolic” stage, where students use abstract symbols to model problems. The abstract stage involves the teacher introducing abstract concepts e.g. mathematical symbols. Students are introduced to the concept at a symbolic level, using only numbers, notation, and mathematical symbols e.g. +, –, x, ÷, to indicate addition, subtraction, multiplication or division.

Have a wonderful week!