Learning and Teaching News

As we continue with remote and flexible learning, the most important thing to remember is that one size will not fit all. There are a range of factors, other than school, that are currently impacting lives. Emotions are heightened as individuals struggle with their particular anxieties and uncertainties. It’s a time for empathy, for pausing to remember that everyone’s reality is different.

 

Julieanne, my sister has three daughters. One follows her daily schedule and sticks to the school routines and does everything her teacher asks. Another loves home schooling because she has time to work on her personal projects and passions; trying her hand at Master chef, knitting and finding out even more about great white sharks! The third rolls out of bed and her engagement with learning can be all or none, taken on with calmness or the cause of total family chaos. Every family's situation is different.

 

As your children's teachers, the most valuable messages we want you to know are these:

  • Children are capable, competent and creative.
  • Personal connection matters more than content.
  • We can't replicate school for you at home.

We see the limitations of our current situation but we also embrace the opportunity for creativity and innovation.

 

We want our SMDP learners to:

  • Feel valued as individuals
  • Feel a sense of belonging to their class and school communities
  • Know their strengths matter more than their weaknesses
  • Be intrinsically motivated
  • Experience personal growth
  • Contribute to their class and school community
  • Love learning
  • Own their decisions and accept the consequences
  • Be allowed to fail and learn from their mistakes

Keep doing your best and focus on the things you can control at this time.

 

Denise Kelly

Deputy Principal and Learning & Teaching Leader

Learning Through Mathematical Games

We all know children love playing games. In the classroom we often use mathematical games, to teach a concept, to promote social interaction or to revise previously taught concepts. You too could be playing mathematical games at home with your child. These games could be played throughout the day as a break from computer screens and ipads. 

 

One of the favourite maths games in my household is Terminator 2. We love this game, as it can be adapted to suit my Year 2 child and Year 4 child.  It involves competition and increases in challenge as the game progresses. I am not sure who wants to win the game more. 

 

On the SMDP remote learning platform on thehome page of our websiteI have created a page that you will find on the toolbar on the top right corner. These games will be available from Friday 21st August. On this page you will find a selection of games that can be played at home with minimal resources (such as dice and cards). Interactive dice and cards can also be found online or through the app store. 

On the platform you will find videos and instructions on how the game is played and the resources you will need to play this game at home. 

 

Elise Coghlan

Literacy & Numeracy Leader