From the 5/6 Classrooms
Literacy
We have launched into our study of Blueback by Tim Winton. Students began by closely examining the front and back covers, reading the blurb and making thoughtful predictions about the story. This sparked rich discussion and curiosity about the themes and setting.
To deepen our understanding, students learned about Ningaloo Reef, located along the coast of Western Australia, where the author grew up. Exploring this stunning natural environment gave students valuable insight into the inspiration behind the setting of Blueback.
Students then completed two short writing pieces. First, they wrote an information report about Ningaloo Reef, focusing on its unique features and environmental significance. After reading the first chapter of the novel, students used their knowledge to craft a descriptive piece about Longboat Bay, the fictional setting of the story. It has been wonderful to see students drawing on rich vocabulary and sensory language to bring their writing to life.
Students have also revisited a narrative they wrote at the beginning of the year and used feedback to set an individual writing goal. This ensures each student is working purposefully towards personal growth in their writing.
Numeracy
In Mathematics, students have been exploring 3D objects. A key focus has been developing and confidently using precise mathematical vocabulary such as perpendicular, parallel, cross-section, faces and vertices. Understanding this language is essential when comparing and contrasting shapes, for example, explaining the difference between a pyramid and a prism, and when interpreting more complex questions.
Students investigated the statement:
When cutting a prism or pyramid, the cross-section taken parallel to the base will be identical in shape and size to the base.
Using clay, students constructed various prisms and pyramids, carefully slicing them to reveal different cross-sections. They then shared their findings, explaining whether they could prove or disprove the statement. It was hands-on, challenging, and highly engaging learning!
Students also explored the different nets that can form a cube - challenge your family to find our how many there are!
In Number, students have been developing their understanding of addition using the vertical algorithm, with a strong focus on place value. Building conceptual understanding alongside procedural fluency ensures students can apply their skills confidently and accurately.
Integrated Studies
As part of our Making Democracy unit, students have been exploring the concept of community. They have reflected on the different communities they belong to and discussed what makes a community effective and inclusive. Students have also examined the qualities of strong leadership and what it means to contribute positively to a group. To put this into practice, students completed the spaghetti tower challenge, working in small groups to construct the tallest possible tower that would be able to hold a marshmallow for at least 30 seconds. Through this task, students explored the essential question: How can we best work together to achieve common goals?
We are very excited for our upcoming Parliament for a Day incursion next week, where students will experience the democratic process in action.
Leadership
Our Grade 6 students have been exploring the various Pillars of Leadership and considering where their strengths and interests lie. They have submitted their preferences and are eagerly awaiting their allocations.
We look forward to presenting our Grade 6 students with their Leadership badges at assembly this Friday and officially launching them into their leadership roles for 2026. We are excited to see them grow in confidence and responsibility as they begin their work within their chosen pillars.
Team 5/6 Sport
This term, we have four Interschool Sport teams: basketball, volleyball, hot shots tennis and softball. Students have been participating in trials and preparing for the season ahead.
We look forward to our first match against Mont Albert Primary School on Friday, February 20th.
Students not selected for an Interschool Sport team will still enjoy an active and engaging Friday morning program, participating in Regie Cup, a variety of fun and competitive activities designed to build confidence, develop skills and strengthen teamwork.
Easing into Adolescents
The Department of Education has launched an Easing into adolescence webpage for families of students aged 10 to 14 (Grade 5 to Year 8).
The webpage has information and strategies you can use to help ease your child into adolescence and secondary school. These include:
- a guide to emotion coaching. Staff from The University of Melbourne’s Tuning in to Teens Kids program developed the guidance
- how to support your adolescent with their studies and more generally. Parenting expert and clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller helped develop this resource.
Subtitles for videos by The University of Melbourne on the webpage are available in 10 languages. You can select your preferred language on the translations page.
If you have questions about these resources, contact the Strategic Partnerships, Transitions and Student Voice team. You can email them at Secondary.School.Transition@education.vic.gov.au.
It has been a fantastic start to the year in 5/6, with students demonstrating enthusiasm, curiosity and a willingness to challenge themselves across all areas of learning.