Around the Primary Classrooms
Year 2 Japanese
As the school year begins in Australia, the academic year in Japan ends. So even though the students are the same age, the Year 2 students at Mount Carmel are learning and being challenged by Year 2 school work while the Year 1 students in Yaizu are preparing to finish their school year, have school holidays and return in April to start Year 2.
Last week, all of our Year 2 students met online with the Year 1 students at Higashi Yaizu Primary School. This opportunity provided an experience of speaking Japanese as well as exchanging some cultural points, for example, school uniform, classroom and hiragana writing.
Year 6 - MJR Day
On Wednesday last week, we had Marty Ogle visit our school for the whole day as part of MJR Day.
During the day, Marty taught us about ways we can include Jesus in our everyday lives. He shared many stories about his experiences, the people he has met and the great things he has been able to do while helping others.
We also got to watch his incredible magic tricks and play games like “Marty’s Among Us.” Marty showed us several videos, including one with basketball player Dwyane Wade, a paddleboarder from Tasmania making history at Shipstern Bluff, and a concert where Ariana Grande, will.i.am and others sang "Where Is the Love?" by The Black Eyed Peas. These videos showed us that no matter where you come from or what you do, you can make a difference in the world.
Marty also spoke to us about making positive choices and the importance of looking after ourselves and others. He talked about being an eagle and not a turkey, encouraging us to aim high and make good decisions in our lives.
One helpful tip Marty shared was a way to fall asleep more easily. He told us to count backwards from 76, which helps us focus on counting instead of thinking about things in the past, present or future. This tip has already helped some of us get to sleep more easily.
We think Marty is a great example of the spirit of Jesus. Through the stories he shared and the way he helps others, we could see how he lives out his faith and encourages others to do the same.
Emmy McLennan and Miranda Sherrin
Primary Music
The start of the school year in the Primary Music classroom has been filled with energy, curiosity and a sense of new beginnings. Students across all year levels have eagerly been exploring instruments and reconnecting with the joy of making music together. Simple songs, rhythm games and movement activities help build confidence while creating a welcoming environment where every child feels comfortable participating.
Our co-curricular music ensembles are also back up and running, including Fiddlesticks on a Monday afternoon.