Year 5 Celebration Newsletter

Maths:

This term the students embarked on a unit on Measurement where they measured length and converted units of measurement, such as centimetres to metres, metres to kilometres etc. Students became familiar with Area and Perimeter, using formulas and working backwards to identify the measurements of a shape from a given perimeter or area. We explored features of 2D and 3D shapes using concrete materials within the broader learning environment. The students developed an understanding of Financial Literacy through the creation of budgets and plans, where they learned skills and priorities that they will use all throughout their lives. The students demonstrated impressive progress with their understanding of fractions through the use of concrete materials and drawing models and diagrams.

Reading:

Students compared and contrasted elements of Asian cultures with Australia’s through the viewing of educational clips, reading relevant non-fiction texts and through whole class discussions. We continued to explore and apply a range of effective reading strategies in order to extend our comprehension of texts and retain information, in particular inferring and synthesising. Students explored the author’s message and the ‘big ideas’ in both fiction and non-fiction texts throughout the term. Term Three also marked the introduction of Literature Circles (also known as Book Club) for some groups of students which promoted rich discussions about increasingly complex texts.

Writing:         

Our Writing and Inquiry units were closely linked throughout Term Three, with students writing to describe the differences and similarities between Australia and a range of Asian countries by exploring the varied food, education, social interactions and economics within these two continents. In the second half of the term students revisited writing to persuade, which was introduced in Term One. We engaged the students in discussions, brainstorming sessions and informal debates to support the generation of ideas and opinions on a range of issues. 

Inquiry:

As part of the Inquiry program, students were immersed in a Geography focussed unit entitled ‘A Diverse and Connected World’. Throughout this unit students read, viewed and wrote about the diverse cultures within Asia as well as Australia, with a specific focus on exploring the similarities and differences between the two continents. During the second half of the term we embarked on a ‘Coding’ unit which supported the students look at creating algorithms using technology as well as critical and creative thinking. The Grade Fives were fortunate enough to participate in both an excursion and an excursion which utilised the expertise of secondary school students and adult facilitators to broaden their understanding of coding beyond the borders of our classrooms.

Wellbeing:

The Grade Fives further explored elements of wellbeing this term with the continuation of the Resilience Project, as well as through Respectful Relationships lessons. Students built upon their understanding of gratitude, empathy and mindfulness through a series of carefully planned and targeted learning experiences. We explored effective ways to communicate and interact with each other.

Celebrating a Successful Term of Learning in Specialist Classes

We are delighted to share with you the incredible achievements and hard work of our students this term in our Specialist classes. The Kismet in Story Land production was a remarkable collaboration of all Specialist classes, showcasing the diverse talents and skills of our young learners.

The production brought together the Performing Arts skills acquired in singing, acting, and stage movements, as well as the Physical Education skills developed in fine and gross motor skills through dance. Additionally, the Visual Art skills that students acquired were put to great use in creating stunning props and costumes that added a touch of magic to the show. Our Japanese Buddy scene showcased the fine work in languages and traditional folklore. 

We are immensely proud of all our students for their dedication and commitment to learning in all Specialist areas. They have demonstrated great enthusiasm and a genuine passion for exploring their talents and acquiring new skills. The Kismet in Story Land production truly reflected their hard work and dedication.

As we approach the end of the term, let us celebrate the achievements of our students and acknowledge their hard work. We look forward to more exciting opportunities in the next term, where our students can continue to grow, learn, and showcase their talents in Specialist areas.

Japanese

This term in Japanese we had a whole school focus on self introductions. The Grade 5 students learnt how to say “Nice to meet you”, “My name is…”, “I am … years old”, “I like…”, “I live in…” and “I’m in grade …”. On Tuesday 1st August, our school hosted Japanese students from Nagano High School, the sister school of Sunbury College. The Grade 5s had the opportunity to introduce themselves to our visitors, showed them around their classrooms and made origami.