From the 5/6 Classrooms

As we began Term 2, students participated in our Start Up program, where we revisited our school values, rights and responsibilities, and classroom expectations. This provided students with the opportunity to reconnect with one another and work together to create a positive and respectful learning environment for the term ahead. Students also explored our six Learning Habits - Communicating, Thinking, Collaborating, Inquiring, Researching and Self-Managing - and reflected on the different ways these habits support them during learning tasks both inside and outside the classroom.

Students also revisited the Seasons of the Kulin Nation, with a focus on the current Waring season - the season of the wombat. Through discussions and learning experiences, students explored the signs of this season, including the appearance of moths and fungi near creeks and waterways, and developed a deeper understanding of Aboriginal perspectives and connections to Country.

As part of the Respectful Relationships curriculum, students explored the topic of problem solving and online friendships. They discussed the similarities and differences between online-only friendships and friendships formed in person, while considering the benefits and potential risks of communicating online. Students also explored ways to respond safely and respectfully if an online interaction makes them feel uncomfortable or unsure.

Below is a snapshot of some of the learning and opportunities taking place across our classrooms, written by members of our Administration Pillar:

Gavin 5/6T: In English, we are exploring a book called Ned Kelly and the Green Sash by Mark Greenwood. It has been really interesting learning about the life of Ned Kelly and the events that shaped Australian history.

Yuvaan 5/6M: During STEM sessions, we are learning about electricity and different sources of electricity. We have been investigating how electricity is generated and used in everyday life.

Daniel 5/6B: In Maths, we have been exploring data and graphing. We have been collecting information and learning different ways to display and interpret data.

Paige 5/6T: We are learning about Australian history and are looking forward to going on a historical walking tour of Melbourne soon to help bring our learning to life.

Olvin 5/6M: We are currently trying out for Interschool Sports teams and training hard. This term the sports are soccer, netball, T-ball and European handball.

Eva 5/6B: We have been introduced to our new Book Club text that we will be exploring in small groups throughout the term. We are excited to share our thinking and discuss the text together.

Athea 5/6B: A select group of Grade 6 students participated in a High Abilities Writers Workshop run by author Deborah Abela. Students explored ways to make their writing more creative and engaging.

Ariana 5/6B: Students in Maths Extension have participated in the Maths Olympiad, where they worked through challenging mathematical problems that required problem-solving skills.

Cindy 5/6M: In Maths, we have been exploring fractions and learning how to compare, add and represent them in different ways.

Matthew R 5/6M: In Leadership, the Wellbeing Pillar have been working with the F-2 students, the Health Pillar have been running Team 3/4 Sport, The Arts and Library and Languages Pillars have been brainstorming whole school event ideas, and the Environmental Pillar have been busy cleaning up our school and working with the Keen Green Team. Last, but not least, the Admin Pillar have been busy preparing and presenting at our Whole School Assemblies, and preparing this newsletter article!

Chloe 5/6M: In Maths, we have been learning about data, including mean, median, mode and range, and how these can help us better understand information.