Specialists News
STEM
As we approach the winter holidays, we wrap up our focus on digital technologies in STEM. Students of all grades had a great time delving into the world of robots, devices and applications, and the impact they have on our everyday lives.
Lower primary students enjoyed a range of hands-on explorative tasks, examining local areas and global landmarks through Google Earth. Using the app Solar Walk, students were able to go to infinity and beyond! They explored a range of celestial objects in our Solar System and travelled further into space to traverse our galaxy, the Milky Way, while extending their understanding of the size of our universe.
Upper primary students used devices and applications to code robots, make games, and explore science themes through gaming apps, such as Minecraft and Paperbark. It was exciting to see how digital games can be used as a fantastic tool to support student learning! Additionally, it was equally exciting to see students of different peer groups helping each other problem-solve the challenges that arose throughout the learning tasks.
As this chapter ends, a new one begins with the natural world and biological science being our focus for Term 3!
SPANISH
It’s hard to believe we have arrived at week 11! There’s been a lot going on in the Language classroom this week. The year 3/4 students have been learning how to research elements of Hispanic culture and then stand up and present that work in groups. They were looking at 5 countries and consolidating information onto a poster. This was challenging as they had to learn to work together and divide the work up between them.
Grade 5/6 researched Hispanic music artists and we had a bit of fun looking at some music videos in class and discussing what it means to be a ‘Citizen of the World’.
Younger students from prep to 2 have been learning about the Spanish painter, Pablo Picasso, and making their own Cubist artwork. Here are some of the Picasso inspired faces done by the Preps.
Adiós and ‘disfruta las vacaciones!’ (Enjoy the holidays)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
As Term 2 comes to an end, our Dinjerra students finish up a great semester of Physical Education. They have enjoyed a variety of different sports, preparation for athletics day in Term 3, and even been introduced to some distance running.
Lower primary students have worked on their motor skills with our PMP program, learning ways of controlling body movements in a variety of activities and games, as well as being able to work in a team environment. They have all been introduced to the concept of overcoming challenges, setting goals and positive self talk. Students have been encouraged to welcome challenges and feel proud of themselves by trying their best!
Upper primary has been refining their application in sports competition. They have been studying different movements required for athletics, including discus, shot put, hurdles and relay races. Year 5/6’s have competed in inter school sports, demonstrating great sportsmanship as well and receiving exposure to game tactics and ways to harbour positive team dynamics. They also partook in a terrific, four week basketball clinic provided by Westgate Basketball Association.
It's been a fun and productive semester, and we’re looking forward to getting hands on next term with our athletics training!
VISUAL ARTS
Wow—can you believe we’re already halfway through the year? Term 2 has flown by and the art room has been bursting with colour, creativity and culture!
This term, students from Foundation to Year 6 explored Indigenous Australian art and the many ways it can express identity, Country and storytelling.
In the lower years, students were introduced to the works of Melissa Greenwood and Melissa Kennedy. They looked closely at the use of symbols and flowing lines to represent cultural stories and calm water. Inspired by these artists, students created their own artworks using pattern, shape and colour to represent their own special places.
In Grades 3/4, students used Google Maps and aerial views to design artworks based on our local area. They were inspired by Yarrkalpa (Hunting Ground), a collaborative piece by artists from the Martumili Art Centre and contemporary artist Merindah-Gunya. They used linework and Aboriginal symbols to reflect on land, place and story.
The 5/6 students explored fibre art drawing inspiration from the Tjanpi Desert Weavers. After learning about how these artists use natural materials to share culture and connection to Country, students selected an Australian bird to replicate. Using wool, foil and toothpicks, they sculpted and wrapped their birds with great care and creativity.
It’s been a hands-on, expressive and thoughtful term in Art and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for Semester 2!
