Year 5 News

It’s been a busy and exciting start to the term in Year 5. The students have thrown themselves into learning, embraced new challenges, and taken part in some memorable experiences both in and out of the classroom. Here’s a snapshot of what we’ve been up to. 

Literacy – Writing with Purpose 

In Literacy, we’ve been exploring how language can be used to inform, persuade and entertain. Our focus has included writing detailed recounts, identifying bias in texts, and learning about text structures to suit different audiences. Students have been encouraged to adapt their writing style depending on whether they’re addressing a friend, a teacher, or a broader audience – an important skill for clear and effective communication. 

 

Numeracy – Fractions and Angles 

Our Numeracy sessions have seen students tackling addition and subtraction of fractions with confidence, as well as exploring the properties of angles. They’ve been learning how to use a protractor accurately – a skill that has brought together careful measurement, problem-solving and a dash of patience. 

 

Inquiry – Values, Beliefs and Influence 

We’ve launched our new Unit of Inquiry, built around the Central Idea:  

 

“Factors within our environment can influence our perceptions and actions.” 

 

The first few weeks have focused on values and beliefs – what they are, where they come from, and how they can shape the way we view the world. Students have been engaging in discussions about the influences around them, from family and friends to culture, media, and community. 

Beaumaris Secondary College Experience Day 

A highlight this term was our excursion to Beaumaris Secondary College. The students had a taste of high school life through a range of engaging activities: 

  • Chemistry – experimenting with reactions and seeing science in action 

  • STEM – solving challenges with creativity and teamwork 

  • Cooking – having a blast making and eating pizza muffins 

  • Sport – staying active and working together in a high school environment This was a fantastic opportunity for the Grade 5s to imagine their future school days and feel confident about the transition ahead. 

Mad About Science Incursion 

Our Mad About Science incursion brought science to life in spectacular style! Students explored: 

  • States of matter – solids, liquids and gases in action 

  • Liquid nitrogen experiments – including balloons and plastic ducks that reacted in surprising ways 

  • Isopropyl alcohol fire demonstration – a safe and controlled show of energy release 

  • Elephant’s toothpaste – an exciting reaction using potassium iodide, hydrogen peroxide and detergent It was a hands-on, high-energy session that sparked curiosity and made science feel truly magical. 

Transition Buddy Activity

The Year 5 students spent the morning with their buddies whilst the 2026 prep students were in their classrooms for their fist school orientation morning.

 

 

 

Carlton Respects – AFLW Values Program 

Representatives from the Carlton AFLW Football Club visited to run their Carlton Respects program. Through interactive activities, students explored: 

  • Managing emotions effectively 

  • Understanding and addressing bullying 

  • The importance of help-seeking and being a supportive buddy 

  • Challenging stereotypes and valuing respect in all relationships It was an inspiring and practical session that tied in beautifully with our focus on values this term. 

 

Celebrating 100 Days of Prep 

We joined our Prep buddies in celebrating their 100th day at school – a milestone filled with pride and joy. The Year 5s helped with a special buddy activity, then formed a guard of honour to cheer the Preps as they finished their day. It was a lovely reminder of the strong connections between year levels and the importance of community spirit. 

It’s been an action-packed start to Term 3, and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the term brings!