Year 3/4 - Newsletter
Dear parents,
We’ve had a fantastic and busy couple of weeks in Year 3/4, and it’s hard to believe we’re already nearing the end of Term 1, how quickly the time has flown!
We would like to congratulate all of our Year 3 students on completing their NAPLAN testing this week. We also extend our thanks to our Year 4 students for the wonderful support they showed their Year 3 friends and classmates throughout the NAPLAN sessions.
What's happened in Year 3/4 these last weeks?
English
During our Structured Literacy unit, we continued our text study of The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate. It is wonderful to see students reading aloud and discussing the text during our lessons.
We have begun drafting and writing a persuasive piece in Writing. Students were presented with four engaging topics to choose from, allowing them to select an issue that interested them. Prior to writing, we have spent time studying persuasive texts and analysing what makes an argument effective. We also connected our persuasive writing to our model text, The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, discussing how the themes explored in the story can inspire strong opinions and viewpoints.
Throughout this process, students have focused on developing strong arguments and supporting them with clear evidence. They are learning that effective persuasive writing includes clear reasons, relevant examples, and emotive language that helps connect with the reader. By making links to the ideas and themes explored in The One and Only Ivan, students are beginning to see how powerful writing can influence the way readers think and feel.
Maths
We have completed our Place Value unit and are now shifting our focus to Statistics and Probability. Over the remainder of the term, students will be learning how to ask effective questions to collect data, and how to organise and represent that data using tables, column graphs, and pictographs.
Students will also explore chance experiments, where they will collect and record results, identify patterns, and discuss why outcomes may vary even when events are equally likely. As their understanding develops, students will compare different sets of data, interpret what the information shows, and use the results to make predictions.
Through these activities, students will learn how to analyse and evaluate data displays, developing their ability to explain what the data shows and draw meaningful conclusions.
Wellbeing
This week is Harmony Week and Neurodiversity Week, and in Wellbeing our focus has been on celebrating diversity, inclusion, and respect. Students have been exploring how respect helps everyone feel valued and that they belong within our classroom and school community. Through discussions and learning activities, students have been developing their understanding of important concepts such as bias, prejudice, racism, and respectful behaviour. They have explored how these ideas can appear in everyday situations and discussed ways they can respond thoughtfully and respectfully. Students have also been encouraged to reflect on the role they can play in helping everyone feel included in our class. By thinking about their words and actions, they are learning how small, positive choices can help create a welcoming environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and that they truly belong.
Inquiry
In Inquiry, students continued learning about Australia’s system of government and the responsibilities of the different levels of government. We focused particularly on the role of State and Territory Governments, discussing the key areas they oversee, such as healthcare, education, public transport, housing, and roads. Students also learned that each state and territory can make laws that are specific to their region.
Students then continued working on their Three Levels of Government project, creating a 3D “triarama” to organise and present their understanding. This hands-on activity allows students to visually show the roles and responsibilities of each level of government. Students completed the State and Territory Government section this week and will finish the Local Government section next week before sharing their final designs.
Homework
Reading homework continues as the term goes on - students are expected to complete 80 minutes of reading at home each week, bringing their filled out and signed diary on Fridays. If your child has not completed their reading or forgotten to get their diary signed, please email their classroom teacher on Friday morning.
Things to Remember
- If your child is still missing one, please provide your child with a day-to-day diary and pencil case.
- Term One is a no hat no play term - please ensure your child has a school hat
- Absences: If your child is going to be absent for three or more days, for legal reasons, it is very important you let the school know. Please use the notes section on compass, email us via compass or contact the office.
What’s Coming Up?
- School Cross Country - Thursday 26th March
- Last Day of Term 1 - Thursday 2nd April (2.30pm dismissal).
- Good Friday Public Holiday - Friday 3rd April
Student Awards
Look out for your class’ individual email Friday afternoon for the Student of the Week & Student Recognition Award shoutouts.
Have a great weekend.
The Year 3/4 Team