Learning and Teaching 

Australian Mathematics Competition 2021

The Australian Mathematics Competition is an optional activity available to students in middle (Yr 3/4) and upper primary (Yr 5/6). It is a one hour math test involving 25 multiple choice and 5 questions involving a number answer with an emphasis on problem solving strategies. Students wishing to enter the competition need to place $6.50 (competition entry fee) in an envelope with your name, and the title – Australian Math Competition on the front of the envelope and return it to the school office by Friday 25th June.

The competition will be held during school hours in mid August. 

Further information can be found at Australian Math Trust or if you have any queries don’t hesitate to chat with me.

 

Kellie Cumming

Italian

It’s fun learning about famous Italian landmarks and traditions. Year 1/2 students Ben, Nathaniel, Evan and Jasmine showcased their lego versions of what a gondola looks like while Allegra talked about her photo of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

 

Recently the Year 3/4s were learning facts about the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italian. Here is an example of their group presentations. Thank you to all students for your lovely presentations.

S.T.E.M.

What is STEM? 

Science: Big ideas & concepts about everything

Technology: Enabling Learning

Engineering: Designing and creating solutions  

Mathematics: Patterns, data collation and manipulation

 

STEM education refers to the teaching of the disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. It is a multidisciplinary  approach to teaching that increases student interest and knowledge in STEM related fields and improves students’ problem-solving, creative thinking and critical analysis skills. 

 

In addition to essential deep discipline knowledge, STEM education is an effective vehicle for the application of theoretical knowledge to practical issues. It can enable learners to develop essential skills in problem solving, critical analysis, logical reasoning, creative thinking, evidence informed decision making, exploring multiple perspectives and communication in real world contexts. 

 

STEM education can enhance dispositions towards curiosity, ingenuity, strategic questioning, entrepreneurship, navigating uncertainty and collaborative risk taking. 

Within the Catholic context, capabilities  of ethical thinking and acting for justice and the common good  can be incorporated. 

 

Why STEM?

There are many valid reasons why we need STEM education. Some of these are listed below:

  • Technologies are radically changing the way we consume, work and live
  • 75% of jobs will require STEM related skills
  • 5.1miliion jobs are at risk from digital disruption within the next decade
  • Participation in 'science' subjects is at the lowest level in 20 years in Australian schools
  • Australian performance in mathematical literacy in schools has fallen
  • Innovation and STEM education are key to future growth

At St John's we are very fortunate to have a learning area dedicated for the teaching and learning of STEM.