Classroom News
Grade 3 & 4
Term 2, Week 8
What a fun term we have had! For such a short term, we have packed a lot in! As well as continuing our fantastic learning in Reading, Writing, and Mathematics Workshops, we have greatly enjoyed learning about contact and non-contact forces and having the chance to make an amazing Rube Goldberg machine! This term has been an absolute blast, and we look forward to the second half of the year.
In Reader’s Workshop this term we have focused on both fiction and non-fiction texts. In fiction texts, we delved into a range of ways to analyse the characters and their traits, comparing the similarities and differences between characters, setting, problem/ plot, themes. In fiction text, we examined the main idea and searched for supporting details. We used a Venn diagram to make comparisons between similar texts or similar topics in the same text. We revised making sticky note connections and unpacking our thinking with detail.
In Writers Workshop, we have had an action packed term exploring multiple writing genres and their features that lie within! At the commencement of the semester we focused on sentence fluency and why the rhythm and the flow of the language, and the sound of strong descriptive words are needed in our writing to make it sound more engaging. Another key focus has been the organisation of our writing. We have explored how the structure of our writing
should include an eye catching introduction, detailed body paragraphs and an effective summarising conclusion.
In Maths, we have been exploring addition and subtraction, and learning about the relationship between them. We have been exploring Fact Families and using them to deepen our understanding of number facts. We have had the opportunity to explore different addition and subtraction strategies, such as vertical addition and subtraction, jump strategies, and split strategies. Being able to use a wide variety of efficient strategies will greatly help as we continue to explore more complex equations in future. Next term we will continue our mathematical progression by examining multiplication and division.
In Integrated Studies, we have used the knowledge we gained undertaking various experiments on forces to create Rube Goldberg machines. Harnessing our new found understandings of Push/Pull, Gravity, Friction etc., we have created a plethora of interesting contraptions that use a variety of chain reactions to move items and achieve an end goal. It has been a messy process, planning, prototyping and creating, but that was the fun part and we are very proud of what we have achieved.
IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES:
- Tuesday 25th July - 3-6 House Athletics
- Mon 7th - Wed 9th - Aug Year 4 Phillip Camp
- Mon 28th Aug - PPD (Student free day)
- Wed 30th Aug - Book Fun Day
- Mon 4th - Fri 15th Sep - Swimming (2 weeks)
- Fri 15th Sep - Last day of Term 3