Grade 5 and 6
Term 3 has Arrived!
Welcome back to Term 3. We hope all of our Grade 5 and 6 families enjoyed a restful and refreshing break. It has been wonderful to welcome students back to school, ready for another exciting term of learning, growth and new experiences. Term 3 is already off to a fantastic start, with students enthusiastically engaging in their learning, demonstrating excellent school spirit and embracing the many opportunities on offer. We look forward to a busy and rewarding term ahead, with plenty of exciting events, including camp, classroom learning and whole-school celebrations.
English: Blueback
This term in English, our students will be immersed in our structured literacy block, with our novel study focusing on Blueback by Tim Winton. As we begin exploring this rich Australian text, students have been building their background knowledge and using evidence-based reading strategies to analyse and comprehend the opening chapters. Through explicit instruction, students are developing their vocabulary, deepening their understanding of the text and strengthening their comprehension skills. Alongside our reading, students are also refining their writing craft by exploring the author's language choices, descriptive techniques and text structures, using these as inspiration to enhance their own writing. We look forward to seeing students continue to grow as thoughtful readers and confident writers throughout the term.
Numeracy
To kick start our term in mathematics, our Grade 6 students are consolidating their understanding of fractions, decimals and percentages by applying these concepts to real-life situations. Through engaging, hands-on learning experiences, students are exploring how percentages are used in everyday contexts, with a particular focus on calculating discounts during shopping scenarios. By making connections between mathematical concepts and authentic experiences, students are developing their confidence in solving practical problems, explaining their thinking and selecting efficient strategies. These learning experiences are helping students build strong mathematical reasoning skills while recognising the relevance of mathematics in their everyday lives.
Our Grade 5 students have been developing their understanding of measurement through a range of engaging, hands-on learning activities. Students have explored and applied their knowledge of length, perimeter, area, mass, capacity and volume while solving real-world mathematical problems and participating in meaningful tasks.
A highlight was an authentic cooking experience, where students made delicious pikelets while applying their mathematical skills. They measured ingredients using millilitres, litres, grams and fractions, whilst having fun and an opportunity to connect mathematic with everyday life. This practical activity encouraged students to develop mathematical reasoning, accuracy and problem-solving skills in real-world context.
This week, students have extended their understanding of division by solving problems involving two and three-digit whole numbers. They have also explored division with remainders and decimal, using a variety of strategies to explain and justify their thinking. To reinforce these concepts, students participated in a range of interactive hands-on mathematic games that have created enthusiasm, engagement and confidence while consolidating their learning. It has been wonderful to see the students embracing mathematical challenges, collaborating with their peers, and developing these new skills to mathematics in everyday situations.
Sports Around Grade 5 and 6
ACPS had our yearly Athletic's Carnival on Tuesday and it was a fantastic day filled with energy, enthusiasm and outstanding school spirit and the weather was on our side. Our Grade 5 and 6 students led the way by proudly supporting their house teams, encouraging their peers and setting a wonderful example for the younger students throughout the day. Whether they were cheering from the sidelines, helping younger students find their events or celebrating the achievements of others, they demonstrated excellent leadership and sportsmanship. A special highlight was seeing our Grade 6 students celebrate the Prep students' very first Athletics Carnival by running alongside them in the 100-metre event. Their encouragement, smiles and support helped make the experience memorable and enjoyable for our youngest students, showcasing the caring and inclusive culture of our school community. Also a shoutout from Miss Buzzini from the High Jump - "I couldn't stop smiling all day! At High Jump, every student encouraged each other. If students didn't make their first job everyone still encouraged them and said it is all good you have another attempt. The cheers and excitement for each other when they jumped over was a beautiful thing. Well done to all students - this is the leadership and support we love to see at ACPS!"
Boys Netball Round Robin
Our Grade 6 boys also embraced the opportunity to participate in a Netball Round Robin at OLOP, stepping outside their comfort zones to try a new sport with enthusiasm and an open mind. Throughout the day, they demonstrated excellent teamwork, communication and resilience as they learnt new skills, supported one another and celebrated each other's efforts. It was wonderful to see the boys build strong connections, encourage their teammates and represent our school with respect and sportsmanship. Whilst the results didn't go their way, it was a positive and fun experience followed by a trip to McDonalds. A big thank you to Mr Webber for supporting the boys. Whilst the boys were off playing netball for the day - the Grade 6 girls and Miss Buzzini connected with some fun activities at school and were warm and cosy in their PJs - we were distracted at one point with two ducks high in the trees - the beauty of our new tree top classrooms!
100 Days Left and 100 Days Of School
As the school year progresses, our Grade 6 students are beginning to count down the final 100 days of their primary school journey, a milestone that makes this time of year especially meaningful. At the other end of the school, our Prep buddies were celebrating their first 100 days of learning and invited the Grade 6 students to join in the festivities.
The Grade 6 students proudly supported their buddies by attending the special 100 Days of School assembly, where they cheered them on and celebrated all they have achieved in such a short time. Following the assembly, the buddies enjoyed a fun-filled morning together, sharing craft activities, adventures and decorating delicious cupcakes. It was wonderful to see the connections between our oldest and youngest students continue to grow through laughter, encouragement and shared experiences.
Watching our Grade 6 students celebrate this important milestone with their Prep buddies was a lovely reminder of the strong sense of community at our school. As one group celebrates their first 100 days and the other looks ahead to their final 100 days of primary school, these special moments together create lasting memories for students at both ends of their primary school journey.
Camp Marysville
Our Grade 5/6 Camp is fast approaching, and the excitement is certainly building! In Week 7, students will head to Camp Marysville for three days of fun, adventure and unforgettable experiences. Camp provides a wonderful opportunity for students to challenge themselves, develop independence, strengthen friendships and create lasting memories through a range of exciting outdoor activities.
To ensure everything is organised before we depart, we ask all families to complete and return the required camp information and permission forms as soon as possible (on Compass or hard copy). Your prompt attention to these forms helps us prepare for a safe and enjoyable camp experience for all students. We can't wait to share this exciting adventure together!
Term 3 is already shaping up to be a fantastic term. Let's continue to support each other, work hard and have fun along the way.
The Grade 5/6 Team - Alysha, Michele, and Russell