Learning & Teaching

Author's Corner

Where the magic of words and the imaginations of our authors take centre stage.

Today we are featuring Estelle in Year 6. This term the Year 6 children were tasked with designing a brand new game. To accompany their game, the children were asked to develop a text to instruct players on how to play. Below is Estelle's draft text.

STEM Rocketry Project Year 5/6 

In our exciting STEM rocketry project, our Year 5 and 6 children will transfer and integrate their learning from various subject areas to develop and launch rockets. They will draw on their knowledge of science, particularly physics, to understand the principles behind rocket propulsion and flight. Through measurement exercises, they will apply mathematical concepts to calculate launch angles and sketch scale models. Engaging in design technology, they'll hone their skills in crafting aerodynamic models. Reading procedural texts will enhance their literacy as they follow step-by-step instructions for constructing their own bottle rockets. Furthermore, exploring the history of rocketry will provide context and inspiration for their designs. The project will culminate in a celebration as the children gather to launch a pre-made rocket!

Checking For Understanding: A Key Teaching Practice.

At Holy Cross, 'checking for understanding' is an effective teaching practice that our teachers employ in mathematics instruction to gauge children's' comprehension of maths concepts. Rather than assuming comprehension, our teachers actively assess children's understanding through a variety of short and sharp methods such as questioning, quick quizzes on whiteboards, group discussions and asking children whether they agree or disagree with the solutions and strategies presented by others. There are two main purposes for this practice: One reason is to encourage children to elaborate on their own understanding and make new connections. Another key reason is to provide teachers with prompt feedback regarding whether material needs to be retaught, or whether the children are ready to move on to the next step.

Kate Johnston

Learning & Teaching Leader

Lent and Holy Week display

As part of our Faith learning, the children are creating a Lent and Holy Week display in the Prayer Room at the end of term.

Each year level will present a visual depiction of one part of the Holy Week scripture and each display will be presented around the Prayer Room, telling the story of Jesus' journey from Ash Wednesday, to Good Friday.

We warmly invite you to visit our completed display on Thursday 28th March (last day of term).

Thank you,

Lisa Peake

Faith Leader