Newsletter

Specialist Classes

LIBRARY

Library Update: Choosing a Just Right Book

 

This semester the Year 2 classes have been practicing the steps of choosing a ‘Just Right Book’ during our Library sessions. A book that is ‘Just Right’ is not too easy and not too challenging. Reading a ‘Just Right’ book can promote comprehension, build confidence and fluency. This process can also foster a love for reading because students choose the books themselves, making them more likely to be engaged in what they are reading. 

 

To find a ‘Just Right’ book you can follow these steps:

  1. Look at the front cover to see if you might be interested in the book.
  2. Read the blurb on the back cover to find out more.
  3. Read 1-2 pages and keep track of how many errors you make.

Use these steps and the Five Finger Rule image below to help you:

0-1 error= too easy            2-3 errors= Just Right!          4-5 errors= too hard

Happy reading!

 

Senior Visual Art Update: 

We kickstarted the term with some imagination workouts in grades 3 - 6. There were some amazingly creative drawings and some very competitive pictionary games. 

 

Whilst the year 5s are busy at camp the year sixes created some mini landscapes using colour and line to create depth in their artworks. They were inspired by artist Jen Aranyi and I think they did an amazing job.

 

We are starting our textiles projects in the coming weeks.

 

 

Junior Performing Arts – Fortnightly Update 

Foundation: 

Our youngest performers had a fantastic session this week in Performing Arts. They further explored the world of music with the addition of dance choreography creation.

 

As you know, last term they were learning fun action songs, developing their rhythmic skills through percussion instruments and body percussion and developing in the art of staying "on the beat."  This week, we revisited a favourite song from last term, Mr Sun (many of you saw their wonderful singing and action performance at the Term 1 Celebration Concert). Our lesson focus was to create a class dance to this known song. It was so wonderful seeing the students creative dance moves and use of expressive dance emotion, while brainstorming and then practising the classes chosen choreography. 

 

The highlight was re-watching our class performance on the big screen. The children were all so excited to see themselves as well as their peers in these spectacular performances. My personal highlight was seeing how different the choreography was across the three classes and witnessing how proud each class was of their dance. Well-done Preps! 

 

Exciting news-I will be offering a Prep Lunchtime Dance Performing Arts Club on Tuesdays for a few weeks this term, with the option for an extended period dependant on numbers. Please encourage your child to come along and enjoy a different Lunch play experience with friends. 

 

 

Level 1 & 2:  

Levels 1 and 2 have continued their musical adventures, singing known songs and exploring another percussion instrument – chime bars (set up as a glockenspiel).  I believe music should be fun and engaging! The glockenspiel is a great instrument for young children as it allows them to explore their creativity and express themselves musically in a joyful way. Level 1 learnt to play ‘Hot Cross Buns’ and Level 2 revisited playing this song and then began learning ‘Old MacDonald Had a Farm’.  Learning to play simple songs helps students develop basic musical literacy – understanding rhythm, pitch and melody.  This lays a strong foundation for future musical exploration. During our glockenspiel lessons both Levels will be exploring these music fundamentals:

·      Pitch:  Identifying and playing different notes.

·      Rhythm:  Understanding and playing different rhythms and beats 

·      Melody:  Playing simple tunes and understanding how notes create a melody.

·      Musical notation (basic): We may also introduce basic notation to help children link             the sounds they play to written music.

·      Performance skills: Playing with others, listening to each other, and sharing the experience of music.I am excited about the musical progress your children are making! Through their work with the glockenspiel and chime bars, they are developing crucial musical skills and a lifelong appreciation for music. I encourage you to ask your children about their musical experiences and celebrate their achievements with them.