Primary News

How to discuss a book with your child

by Nerida Finlayson

Book discussion is one of the best ways to know the level of,

and to support, your child's literacy. The analytical skills used

in discussion are what your child needs to succeed in

school—and life. But because you're probably not reading

the books that your children are reading for pleasure or for

school, it's sometimes hard to have a discussion about them.

Here are some tips on how to start and sustain a book

discussion with your child. In general, avoid dead-end, yes/no

questions such as "Did you like it?"

Literacy and Numeracy Support

by Nerida Finlayson

We have had an extremely busy and productive semester in all areas of literacy and numeracy. Throughout the last two terms, students and teachers have embraced the implementation of Seven Steps to Writing Success to improve their writing, in addition to Words Their Way - a differentiated word study resource designed to target and support students at their relevant developmental stage of conceptual spelling knowledge. As a staff, we continue to emphasisethe importance of automaticity when recalling times tables facts, in addition to simple counting activities and mathematical language in the lower years.

We take this opportunity again to remind parents that reading is a key component of every child’s literacy development. We encourage reading each night with your child (or they can read independently) in order to enhance comprehension skills and build vocabulary.

For those students in Year 3 and above, constant revision of times tables is key to foundational understanding of most mathematical concepts.

For this reason, we have again attached the Reading Log and Times Tables Booklet templates for any student who has misplaced their original copy issued to them earlier this year.

Enjoy the holidays, and happy reading!

Mathematics Problems and Puzzles

Term 2, Week 9/10

by Nerida Finlayson

As we approach the end of term, students are consolidating many mathematical concepts that have been explicitly taught throughout the Semester One. For a little challenge at home (or a little fun), why not try these short puzzles and problems for each relevant stage. Students will need to “think outside the box” a little and employ some key mathematical skills of reasoning and questioning.

The following PDF includes 3 puzzles/problems for each stage of learning.

2017 K-6 School Concert

Save the Date

K-6 school concert dates:

Matinee session - Wednesday 13 September

Evening performance - Wednesday 13 September

Evening performance - Thursday 14 September

(times are yet to be confirmed)

Mary Mackillop Award Recipients

Our weekly Mary Mackillop Award is designed to reflect the Christian values of our school and of Mary Mackillop. Students who receive this award have seen someone in need and have done something to help.  

1/2 R: Katelyn Scholl

3/4 S: Fred Finlayson

3/4 G: Zara Cogan

5/6 ON: Georgia Whibley

5/6 OD: Will Playfair

5/6 M:  Ned Farrell