News from our Specialists
Art, Music, STEM, Mandarin & PE
STEM
The students have had so much fun creating their own games this term in Scratch. They've also learnt a little bit about designing digital solutions, decision making, branching, nested controls, cartesian coordinates, incorporating user inputs, using variables to record data, systematically testing and debugging code, online safety and sharing of ideas...
But don't spoil the fun by reminding them of that. Just play their games!
Most of these games will involve the use of a computer keyboard. They have all been created by the students. Either by remixing projects we've used in class, or creating games completely from scratch (pardon the pun) with the skills they've learnt. If your child's game isn't on the list, ask them to show you on their device, I guarantee that you'll be impressed.
Get food for Dinner by Noah
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1250316660
Eat meeeeeeeee!!! by Lizzie
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1250314082
Feed the Shark by Kiana
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1250276987
Catch the Balloon in Space by Eva
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1250841402
Tag Vincent by Vincent
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1250300279
Dodge the Taco by Sofie
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1250300523
Biz's Game 3 by Biz
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1231926161
Galaxy Wave by Marcus and Andrew
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1250254882
Frog by Seb
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1250236769
Monster Maze by Marcus
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1250234977
Find the Elf by Theresa, Sammy and Colbie
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1253327852
Falling Stars Remix by Sang
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1240803407
Whack-a-Mole by Anton
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1252998668
Teacher Escape for Mr Reiter and Mrs Keep
I have had the pleasure of working with two fantastic teachers who will be hanging up their boots at the end of this year. They were here when I began as a graduate in 2014, and I have been fortunate to work with both of them in teams under their guidance.
Thanks Mrs Keep and Mr Reiter. You're now the main character in your own computer game.
Mrs Keep's: Teacher Escape - walking edition
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1248579127
Mr Reiter's: Teacher Escape - bike edition
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1253373382
Mandarin
Throughout Term 4, our Grade 5/6 students have been immersed in an amazing unit on ancient China, centred around the mysteries of Emperor Qin Shi Huang and the extraordinary discovery of his Terracotta Warriors more than 2,000 years ago. Students explored the historical background of the first united Qin Dynasty, investigated how the warring states were unified, and learned why Xi’an became the site of one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the world.
As part of their inquiry, students also examined the Four Greatest Ancient Capitals of China, gaining deeper insight into China’s long and influential history through videos, discussions, and guided research.
To bring history to life, students spent the last two weeks creating their own Terracotta Warriors. Working in pairs, small groups, or independently, they designed, shaped, and crafted warriors of their choice. Their concentration, creativity, and enthusiasm were evident as they experienced a piece of ancient Chinese culture right here in the classroom.
As the year comes to an end, I would like to wish all our students and families a Merry Christmas and a safe, relaxing holiday break.I look forward to welcoming everyone back in the New Year for more exciting learning in Mandarin!
PE
We've had a busy term of PE to finish off what has been a jam packed and fun filled year of sport at DPS.
A big thank you to all parents/carers for helping get bikes and helmets to school for our Grade 3-6 Bike Skills sessions with AusBike. Our students loved getting on two wheels and learning about bike safety in a fun and inclusive environment.
Our junior students had the opportunity to get the footy's out and have a kick as part of the Coles Healthy Kicks program, run in conjunction with AFL Max.
We also held our Swimming Trials for our 2026 District Swimming Team at Aquarena on 10th December. Well done to all students who opted in and for bringing a terrific attitude and having a go!
Mrs Wilkinson and Mr Rodger look forward to more sporting fun in 2026