5/6 CLASSROOM

School Newsletter: Week Highlights for Grade 5/6 Parents 

We are excited to share some of the learning highlights and upcoming events happening in our Grade 5/6 classrooms this week. From mathematics challenges to meaningful discussions, here’s what’s been going on: 

Math’s: BODMAS and Probability Test 

In mathematics, the students have been working hard to master the order of operations, learning the importance of BODMAS (Brackets, Orders, Division/Multiplication, Addition/Subtraction) to solve complex equations.  The students have been exploring different scenarios to estimate chances, working out why some games are fair, and others are not, and recording experimental results to predict probabilities. They’ve also completed their Probability Math’s Test last week. 

English: Persuasive Writing 

Last week, our budding writers have been diving into the art of persuasive argument. Each student has selected a theme of their choice, crafting strong arguments to convince their audience. Some of the topics include Everyone Should Own a Pet, Weekends should be Three Days Long,Student’s Shouldn’t Have to do Homework, and Camping is Better than Staying in a Hotel. We are proud of how well they are developing critical thinking and sharpening their writing skills. I am particularly proud of their attempt to use better words – extending their vocabulary. You might want to ask your child about the topic they've chosen and their reasons behind it! We had a lesson on tenses on Friday – which we will continue to expand on next Term. 

RU OK? Day 

Last Thursday, we will be recognising RU OK? Day, an important initiative that encourages people to reach out and check in on others. We’ll have classroom discussions around mental health, kindness, and building positive relationships,

Sports with Mrs. Brockett, Amalie, and David 

In PE, Amalie and David from My Future Academy, alongside Mrs. Brockett,  have been focusing on enhancing fitness and team spirit through various activities. 

This week, students will engage in team-building exercises and explore new sports, aimed at developing coordination, resilience, and a love for staying active. 

School Dentist Visit 

The school dentist visited this week as part of our health program. They will provide routine check-ups for all students and teach them about the importance of good oral hygiene. The dental nurse made comment she was impressed by our student manners and eagerness to see them. 

Retrieval Charts for English and Mathematics' 

Our students are using retrieval charts in both English and Math's to help organise their learning. These charts are a fantastic tool for revisiting key concepts and for building a strong foundation in both subjects. It encourages independent study habits and is good practice to enforce good habits of the mind to retrieve past learnt information. 

Educational Research Projects (ERP) 

This term, the students are embarking on their ERP (Educational Research Projects). These projects allow them to dive deep (excuse the pun!) into a subject area of interest, enhancing their research and presentation skills. We look forward to seeing the creativity and dedication they will bring to their chosen topics around the theme of the Ocean. The EXPO, alongside Gr 3 /4 will be on Wednesday in our classroom from 2:40 – 3:20 pm – all welcome.

Retreat Day 

Yesterday, the students thoroughly enjoyed their Retreat Day. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to reflect, relax, and recharge. The day included hot chips for lunch, with sauce, followed by a variety of activities such as meditation, board games, mindfulness coloring, dancing and singing to music, and sports games. One of the highlights was a fun Netball game as they prepared for their much-anticipated match against the staff this Friday. It was a day filled with joy, mindfulness, and community spirit. 

  We found this Gecko upstairs in the Hall – Miss Shaddick rescued it and placed it outside. 

Working on Our ERP’s 

 ASPA Dance Program 

The ASPA (Australian School of Performing Arts) dance program continues to be a huge success, with students participating in lively dance lessons that foster confidence, creativity, and teamwork. Our Grades 3, 4, 5 & 6 cohort is showing great enthusiasm as they learn new routines and develop their performance skills. Their performance is on Thursday 19th Sept at St Mels in Shepparton. Doors to the audience open at 12:50pm for 1pm start.

We thank you for your ongoing support and look forward to another productive and exciting time with your students in Term 4.