From the Classroom
News from Grade 1/2
We have had a terrific and productive Term 2 in Grade 1/2! It has been wonderful to see students building on their learning from earlier in the year and continuing to grow in confidence across all areas of the curriculum.
In reading, we have further developed our comprehension strategies through shared texts and discussions. Our daily big book sessions have been a highlight, with students predicting, questioning and connecting to the stories we read together. Our independent reading stamina continues to grow and it has been exciting to see a number of students moving onto chapter books this term.
During writing sessions, we have been strengthening our recount writing by using time connectives to improve the structure and flow of our ideas. We have also explored nouns and pronouns. We are in the middle of our 'Possum Magic' narrative unit and students are planning and writing their own versions of the story. Stay tuned for our published books! In spelling, dictation sentences have become a much loved part of our weekly routine. Students are developing confidence in using known sounds and high-frequency words in their writing.
In maths, we have continued our work on place value and have loved using the MABs to represent and build numbers. More recently, we have been exploring length using a variety of concrete materials in a hands-on and engaging way.
Our theme this term has been all things Australia. Using ‘Are We There Yet?’ by Alison Lester, we have followed the family’s journey around the country and learned about some of Australia’s unique places. It has been a great connection to our writing work on Possum Magic, as we explore settings and landmarks around Australia.
Friendology and SWPBS lessons remain an important part of our week. Students continue to work towards earning tokens for showing positive behaviour and demonstrating school values. Our Toolamba Shop is always a highlight — we have both enthusiastic spenders and savvy savers in our classroom!
To top off all this wonderful learning, last week we had a terrific time at our daily sessions at Jets Gymnastics. From bars to beams, there was something for everyone — but the trampolines were definitely the biggest hit!
As you can see, we have been busy learning, creating and growing in Grade 1/2. We are looking forward to more exciting learning in the weeks ahead. Check out our lovely photos below.
Grade 3/4 Biome Dioramas
Students have spent every Wednesday afternoon this term investigating how different plants and animals have adapted to survive in their specific environments. They've explored how climate and weather patterns shape each biome, learning fascinating facts like why cacti store water in the desert and how polar bears stay warm in the Arctic. Our students are now constructing their very own biome dioramas. Each student has chosen their favourite biome to recreate in a shoebox, bringing together everything they've learned about:
Plant life - Creating the vegetation that thrives in their chosen environment
Animal inhabitants - Including the creatures that call this biome home
Landscape - Building the terrain, from sandy dunes to snowy mountains
Students will work on their dioramas every Wednesday afternoon until the end of term. We can't wait to see what they turn out like!
Show and Tell
Today, Grade 2 and 5/6 had a special visit from Winnie the Golden Retriever pup. Indie and Ivy were very excited to show her to their classmates. Winnie had a great time too!
Grade 3/4/5/6 clay artworks
All clay artworks are ready to take home. Please collect from the art room before the end of term and carry home carefully!