1/2A

Getting to Know 1/2A

As I get to know 1/2A, we have spent some time getting to know each other through our “We Are Stars!” activity.

Students coloured different sections of their star based on their own interests and preferences. It was a fun way to see the things we have in common, as well as the things that make each of us different.

We will be displaying our stars together in the classroom as a reminder that everyone in 1/2A brings something unique to our class.

Literacy – Mallee Sky

In Literacy, we have started exploring our new mentor text, Mallee Sky by Jodi Toering, illustrated by Tannya Harricks.

We have been looking closely at some of the vocabulary used throughout the story, including words such as relentless, inky, unforgiving and eerie. We have discussed what these words mean and how the author uses adjectives to help us picture the Mallee landscape.

We have also been comparing our local area with the Mallee area, looking at what is similar and what is different. This week, we are continuing our work on comparing and contrasting by looking at drought and rain and using Venn diagrams to organise our ideas.

In Phonics Plus, students have continued practising spelling patterns, reading words and building their fluency through partner reading.

Numeracy – Arrays and Repeated Addition

In Numeracy, we have been learning about equal groups, arrays and repeated addition.

Students have been looking at and making arrays to work out how many rows there are, how many are in each row and how many there are altogether.

We are beginning to connect arrays to repeated addition. For example, three rows of four can be shown as:

4 + 4 + 4 = 12

We are also beginning to make the connection between repeated addition and multiplication. Students will continue working with partners and using different array challenges to practise these skills and explain their thinking.

Integrated Studies – Places and Our Connection to Them

In Integrated Studies, we have continued our unit, Places and Our Connection to Them.

We have been learning about Wadawurrung Country and discussing the importance of Country and Place. We have also been looking at weather and seasons and how changes in plants, animals and weather can help us notice when seasons are changing.

Our next focus is asking geographical questions. Students are learning to look closely at places, think about what they notice and wonder, and ask questions beginning with what, where, why and how.

These questions will help us find out more about places, how people are connected to them, how places change and how they can be cared for.