Grade 5/6

Canberra Camp

Dear families of 5/6.

We are currently in the process of dotting the i's and crossing the t's with camp. A Xuno event will be sent out soon, either end of this week or early next. 

This will ask for a deposit to confirm numbers. Knowing our exact numbers will help us with a final cost to families. This is important that we're clear because if numbers change, the cost is then carried to everyone. This is because of buses, food and accommodation requirements.

We know it’s a big experience for our students. We encourage positive conversations at home to ease any anxiety or concern with your child. Additionally, we are happy to meet with families to discuss concerns and strategies to help support your child. 

This is a once in a lifetime experience for your child. 95% of our graduating speeches consist of their favourite memories from camp. "In Canberra" or "on Canberra camp" or "That time in Canberra, when we did this or something this:, is always mentioned. Along with the next 4 - 14 months every week, a moment or memory with be brought up all of a sudden about Canberra amongst the cohort. It would be a shame for students to miss out on making these memories with their friends. So please utilise us if needed, we have supported so many students in the past which led to a huge success. 

Our door is always open.

Numeracy

Big Idea Statement: 

Comparison: Numbers, expressions and measures can be compared by their relative values.

This term, the Grade 5/6 students have started Big Idea 4, which shows them focussing on fractions, decimals and percentages and being able to connect all three. We have had great discussions about where we might see percentages in the real world and why they are important. We have also been learning what the difference between a percentage off and percentage of. It’s been amazing to see the students get straight back into their learning after a well deserved break!

In fluency, students are learning their 6 times tables, using the strategies of doubling our 3’s and understanding that they are a pattern, always ending in even numbers.

Literacy

In Literacy, we have started our narrative topic, focusing on fables and morals, to help us we have been using our mentor text ‘The Silver Donkey,’ 

The Silver Donkey is a testament to bravery, loyalty and sacrifice. The collection of intriguing tales provides a gentle but unflinching look at the horrors of war as well as the power of innocence.’ 

It has been great to hear all of the interesting discussions about this text while we have been reading, as well as hearing the students favourite fables. This term, we will be working towards creating our own fable, that includes a moral, to share with the rest of the class and everyone at home. 

We can’t wait to hear the stories the Grade 5/6s come up with.

Integrated Studies

Our Integrated Studies unit this term is ‘Making Democracy’. The Grade 5/6 students will learn about the key features of the electoral process and the different responsibilities of each level of government in Australia. They will consider the values of Australia’s democracy and the important qualities of leaders. They will also explore how laws are made in Australia and some key milestones in Australia’s democracy. The students will practise being active citizens in a democracy as they work together towards a common goal by raising awareness of an issue. 

This unit will be getting us ready for our fast-approaching Canberra Camp, which we are all so excited for. 

Although we are very excited about our camp this term, we understand how nervous and anxious it can make some of us feel. Please continue to have conversations at home about the amazing experience your child will have in Canberra. 

A note on Xuno with information will be available by the end of the week.

Please reach out to us if you have any concerns, questions or wonderings or if there is anything we can do to make this a little easier for your child.

Have a great week! 

Miss Stephan and Mr Ward

Reminders:

Wednesday May 6th – Excursion to the Wild Life Park

Friday May 8th – Division Cross Country

Tuesday May 12th – Winter Sports Soccer