Stage 3
Welcome to Stage 3 2024.
This is a critical time in the development of a child. These years, just before the onset of teenagehood will see young people pursuing increased independence and a greater awareness of themselves beyond their immediate family. Experience also tells us that positive attitudes to learning are established prior to high school. Hence, we are preparing for a year in which we aim to support and nurture the intellectual, social, emotional and physical development of your children. It is our great privilege to work in partnership with you and inspire them to be the very best they can be.
Learning Focus - English & mathematics
If you follow the media closely, you will have noticed there is much discussion about the teaching of reading. A systematic review of all the research into this field from the last 40 years was released by the Grattan Institute earlier this week which reinforced the need for a structured and explicit approach to the teaching of reading. Fortunately, BVPS supported by the NSW Department of Education, has been working hard to reshape curriculum and refine teaching practice for the last 5 years in response to this work. In Stage 3 and across BVPS, students are seeing the fruits of this refined approach to both reading and writing.
To teach the skills and knowledge associated with phonics, vocabulary and oral language, this term has begun with an in-depth study of the genre; Science Fiction. Students are reading and analysing the New York Times best-seller "The Wild Robot".
Mathematics forms a critical foundation in developing a student's ability to think, organise, and problem solve. Innovative programming supported by research from around the globe will spearhead our learning in mathematics this semester. Each fortnight, students will engage in a unit of work connected to real-world concepts and applications.
Enjoying and understanding mathematics is vitally important, as like reading, it is something that gives your child access to the world, indeed many of our future jobs will be underpinned by mathematics. I urge anyone interested to connect with Dan Finkle's Ted Talk about mathematics. It outlines many ways you can support your child at home.
Other ways you can support classroom learning is through asking questions about what they are learning, playing and creating with them and engaging in books alongside your children.
Other learning areas
In addition to English and mathematics, students will engage this term in a geographical study of Asia, a scientific exploration of adaptation, create and appreciate visual art and music and learn to negotiate challenging situations with friends through our PDHPE program. We will endeavour to provide some more details and samples of work around these in subsequent newsletters.
Please do not hesitate to contact me or your child's classroom teacher should you have any questions.
Zane Osborn
Assistant Principal, Stage 3
