Level 5: Connect

Maths

Over the past two weeks, our Grade 5 students have been deepening their understanding of multiples, factors, and multiplication. They have explored a range of strategies, including the distributive property, to break down and solve multiplication problems efficiently. Hands-on learning with MAB blocks has helped strengthen their mental arithmetic skills, allowing them to visualize number relationships and develop greater confidence in their calculations. It’s been fantastic to see their problem-solving skills grow!

Reading

This week we have started our novel study. We are reading the story War Horse by Michael Morpurgo.     

Synopsis

Albert and his beloved horse, Joey, live on a farm in the British countryside. At the outbreak of World War I, Albert and Joey are forcibly parted when Albert's father sells the horse to the British cavalry. Against the backdrop of the Great War, Joey begins an odyssey full of danger, joy and sorrow, and he transforms everyone he meets along the way. Meanwhile Albert, unable to forget his equine friend, searches the battlefields of France to find Joey and bring him home.

Our initial focus has been analysing how the author has used literary skills to develop the first few characters. Next week we will explore the use of first-person perspective as a strategy to communicate the author's perspective.

Writing 

In Writing, students are reviewing and practicing their Narrative writing skills. They have reviewed the structure of a narrative and analysed how authors use figurative speech and creative language to create an immersive experience for their readers. Next week students will continue to explore different aspects of Narrative writing like - Character development, setting the scene, creating tension/problem, and crafting a fitting resolution/conclusion. 

Inquiry

This term, our Grade 5 students will be exploring 'how our choices about food, movement, sleep, and leisure time impact our overall health and well-being'. 

Through discussions and activities, they have already revised and learnt about the five food groups. In the coming weeks, the importance of regular physical activity, and the effects of sleep on energy levels and concentration. By examining their own habits, students are developing a deeper understanding of how small, everyday choices can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

This learning will culminate in an end of Term project... more to come in next fortnights newsletter about how you can help your student with this project.

Important Events

We would also like to give a quick shoutout to Mr Davies for a fun and successful District Tryout Carnival. We will be holding a Swimming Carnival in Term 4, for all students and houses to participate in.

• Interschool sport - 
  • Friday 21/02 - vs Black Rock PS
  • Friday 28/02 - vs Beaumaris PS and Sandringham PS

February

• Welcome Picnic – Friday 21st February 4:30 – 6:30 pm

March

• Labour Day – Monday 3rd March
• District Swimming (qualifying students) – Thurs 6th March
• Division Swimming (qualifying students) – Wed 12th March

April

• Last day of term: Friday 4th April