Specialists

LOTE

In Indonesian, we have been learning about some celebrations that different people participate in, in honour of Harmony Week. We talked about how special occasions can bring family and communities together and can be very important for different groups. 

Prep students are practising counting up to ten, and are getting so good at identifying different colours! We have also been focussing on house colours in preparation for the upcoming House Cross Country next month. To wrap up our term, we will be playing lots of language games and reading a traditional Indonesian story.

In Year 1/2, students are continuing to practise their numbers and play a range of language games. One of our most popular games at the moment is ‘Siapa Monyet?’ (Who’s the monkey?).  For Year 3/4, we are continuing to look at daily activities and the four times of the day, which will lead into telling the time next term. 

Year 5/6 students have been continuing to learn strategies for translation and figuring out what something means when we only have part of the information. We are learning about the islands of Indonesia in more depth, and exploring the new capital city Nusantara, which will officially open in August.

For whichever occasions you are celebrating (or just enjoying some rest!), wishing everyone a safe and happy holidays!

Selamat Paskah - Happy Easter

Selamat Hari Raya Idul Fitri - Happy Eid

Rahajeng Rahina Nyepi - Wishing you a peaceful Nyepi

Visual Arts

This term in Visual Arts has been incredibly enriching and creative across all year levels. 

Our Preps have delved into the fundamental elements of art, exploring lines, colours, and shapes through expressive self-portraits using various mediums. 

Meanwhile, Year 1 and 2 students have successfully crafted their own Easter Bilby stories, combining writing and illustration skills collaboratively as a class. 

Year 3 and 4 students have proudly completed their soft toy projects, now in the capable hands of our dedicated volunteers for sewing during the holidays. 

Lastly, Year 5 and 6 students have dedicated substantial time to meticulously plan, paint, and finalise their mixed-media self-portraits, each accompanied by a unique artist statement. 

This term has exemplified student-led creativity and agency in learning, promising more exciting artistic endeavours in the upcoming term after a well-deserved Easter break.

Performing Arts

This will be my last newsletter piece for Performing Arts before I go on maternity leave at the end of this term. I would love to give a big shout out to all the wonderful students at YRPS who have made this specialist class an absolute pleasure to teach! Your enthusiasm, positivity and willingness to give all the activities your best effort has truly made it such an enjoyable term. I have loved seeing student confidence grow in learning various aspects of the music curriculum.

The last couple of weeks, Prep students have loved experimenting with various instruments and gaining an understanding of the different pitch and tempo they can create. Year 1/2 students got to learn about Boomwhackers - how to use these instruments correctly and about the various notes and pitch they make, as well as follow along to a melody. Year 3/4 have been learning about the names of different parts of songs and how to differentiate between these transitions within songs. Year 5/6 also incorporated some drama in the form of ‘Mime’ where they had to create mimes focused on our school values.

Musicians of the week:

Raghav S (3/4B) for focusing so well and learning the different parts of songs. Great work on labelling these parts and assisting your peers Raghav!

Zak B (Prep B) for the amazing effort he put into drawing his music note showing what he loves about music.

Thank you everyone and I know that you will have a wonderful rest of the year in Performing Arts with your new teacher!

STEM

Our Science classes have been buzzing with creativity and innovation as students embark on exciting projects that blend environmental science with engineering. From exploring natural habitats to harnessing renewable energy, our students are learning to appreciate the wonders of the world around us and the importance of sustainability. Here’s a glimpse into the fantastic projects each grade level has been working on:

Prep - Year 2: Budding Environmentalists at Work

Our youngest scientists in Prep through to Year 2 have taken to the great outdoors, gathering materials to create their very own mini enclosures. This hands-on project allowed them to explore and appreciate the diversity of materials found in nature, understanding how each can provide shelter and comfort for various creatures. 

Year 3/4: Architects of the Animal Kingdom

Students in Years 3 and 4 have taken their research skills to new heights, creating 3D enclosures for their chosen animals, which they have been researching throughout the term.  By considering factors like climate, terrain, and food sources, they've designed innovative solutions that could support real-life conservation efforts. Their presentations have been both educational and inspiring, showcasing their commitment to protecting wildlife.

Year 5/6: Engineers of Tomorrow

With the help of expertise from Monash University, the Year 5 and 6 students have embarked on a journey into the future of transportation, constructing solar-powered cars using recyclable materials for the body. This project has not only introduced them to the principles of renewable energy and sustainability but also emphasized the importance of recycling and reusing materials. Witnessing their cars race powered by nothing but the sun has been a highlight of the term, demonstrating the potential of clean energy in a fun and engaging way.

Physical Education

Our PE classes has been bustling with activity and energy as students from Prep to Year 6 engage in a variety of physical education programs designed to enhance their fitness and introduce them to the joys of sports and physical activity.

Prep - Year 2: Mastering Gross Motor Skills

Our youngest athletes have been diving into Gross Motor Skill Activities, where they've had fun hopping, skipping, jumping, and throwing. These activities are crucial for developing coordination, balance, and fundamental movement skills. It's been a delight to see their progress and enthusiasm!

Year 3/4: On the Path to Peak Fitness

Students in Years 3 and 4 have embarked on their Fitness Testing journey. Through a series of engaging challenges, they've been testing their agility, strength, and flexibility. This is an excellent opportunity for students to understand their physical capabilities and set goals for improvement.

Year 5/6: Testing Limits and Gala Day Glory

Alongside their Fitness Testing, our Year 5 and 6 students showcased their athletic skills at the recent Sports Gala Day. Competing in Basketball, Cricket, Tennis, and Volleybounce, they demonstrated teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. The day was filled with spirited competition, and every student gave their all, making us incredibly proud. Congratulations to the girls basketball team who won the day to progress through to the division round.