Hello Cowwarr friends and families! We have had a fun-filled, productive fortnight at school. There are so many highlights so I'll begin from last week....

Monday

On Monday, we came together as a whole school and learnt about our emotions and how these can be shown through our body language. We drew pictures of one another and described how our faces change when they feel an emotion, for example, when someone is feeling frustrated we may see a frown, a curled lip and squinty eyes. I enjoyed seeing the laughter in the room as we reflected on our portraits.

Angus and Molly kindly brought in their baby guinea pigs and my gosh- they were so cute! We all took it in turns to hold each of them while we learnt that the clicking noise they make, helps them communicate with and know where their mother is- how cool!

Wednesday

On Wednesday, it was Angus' birthday and he brought in the most delicious chocolate cupcakes for us all (thanks Kathleen!)

In class, we learnt how to read any number! First, we watched kid genius Luis Esquivel, read huge numbers (skip to 5:00.)

Then, we learnt the trick using place value houses. The idea is to say all the numbers in one house, before moving onto the other. For example if the number was 345, 678, 976- you would say 345 MILLION, 678 THOUSAND, 976.

Thursday

Neesh's Quiche's was another great hit for both the staff and students as there were none left! I appreciated the kind words from the students, and I liked how some even encouraged others to try something new.

In our Literacy block, we have began setting ourselves individual goals. Throughout the week I have conferenced with most children and set a reading and writing goal. This goal is always written in their books, and on their table, as a reminder. At our next conference, we will revise the goal and change it if needed. We are learning that we can all be successful in our own way and everyone learns at different paces.

Friday

Amongst our specialist classes, Brylie and April have been participating in swimming practice for our upcoming carnival. I would just like to congratulate the girls on their effort as some of these techniques can be quite difficult! But we all know that practice makes perfect, and I can see that they are becoming stronger swimmers!

This week.....

Wednesday and Thursday

This week I had the opportunity to go to Bairnsdale and participate in a Writing Workshop. I've come away with a revised skill set that will help improve and create more effective reading and writing practices at Cowwarr. Teachers are also learners too! Thank you to Ms Anderson for helping out in Room 1 so that I could attend this.

Time is going very fast, I can't believe it will be Week 5 next week already! So far, so good, keep up the great work TEAM!

M.A.R.C Van

With Mrs. Hinchcliffe