Independence Centre

Curriculum

Selamat Siang Families!

What an incredible way to start the term off in the Independence Center as we delved head-first into a handful of rich and engaging learning tasks.

In Maths, we explored and described a range of different number patterns using single step and multi-step rules and our four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division). We practised different strategies including using function machines, in and out charts, number lines and number charts to name a few!

This week in Reading, we employed a range of reading strategies including summarising, predicting, questioning and clarifying to read and respond to challenging comprehension questions. In addition to this, we identified, interpreted and experimented with a range of persuasive text features found in advertisements around us to create a poster advertising the ‘best holiday destination!’

In Writing, we used our knowledge of persuasive text features and devices to write a persuasive piece on the ‘best holiday destination.’ We included sizzling starts, three strong arguments supported by facts and anecdotes, alliteration, rhetorical questions, exaggeration and emotive language. It was incredible reading about the different adventures we could go on, ranging from staying at home with the family to going on wild adventures around the world!

In Wellbeing this week, we explored the school value of Inclusion. Students were provided with no instructions and a large box of building blocks. As a class, we were amazed when we identified the language that the class used when deciding to build together, individually or in groups, how the blocks were shared and the methods in which ideas were used. Following this, was a circle time discussion on the impact and power of inclusion in different environments including in the classroom and at breaks, at home and in the community.

In STEM, we began our journey into the Rocks and Erosion as students jumped into their team roles as managers, speakers and directors to explore sedimentary rocks. Students were independent as they worked efficiently to find the materials, follow the methods and create observations and hypotheses. We are excited to see what happens to our experiment over the following weeks! In Coding, we also started our three week rotation where we will practise coding using our robots, block coding using code.org and Minecraft Education.

Have a wonderful week,

Miss Chooi, Miss Richardson, Miss Wang, Mrs McCoy, Miss Tillotson and Miss Honan

Student Voice

Harry W - "I enjoyed 3/4 Sports because I could play football."
Olivia L - "I enjoyed the Maths function machines and number patterns because it was tricky and I had to keep trying."
Archer F - "I enjoyed Maths because it was fun and I had to work out my rule (+7 - 20 x 2). I started from 5.015 so I used my decimals."
Shriya D - "I enjoyed Writing because I was able to express my persuasive piece in different ways like making a video advertisement with my script."
Jess W - "I enjoyed writing my reasons because I thought they were very convincing."

Reminders

In preparation for the NAPLAN test in Week 3, can all Year 3 students please ensure they have a set of headphones at school which is compatible with their iPad.
There is also a chance in Week 2 for you to bring in any special rocks you may have found or collected so we can explore them in your classes!
This term we will be engaging in some science experiments. If you could bring in some 1-2L plastic bottles (soft drink bottles/milk bottles/juice bottles), that would be greatly appreciated.
Could we please ensure all iPad apps used at school are updated!

Pupil of the Week

3/4C: Nicky R -

For setting a positive example by ensuring his peers are included in group activities. You always demonstrate kindness towards others which is highly valued. Keep it up, Nicky!

3/4H: Karmveer R -

For demonstrating perseverance and lifelong learning when exploring number patterns. I was impressed to see you apply your knowledge of place value to create a pattern involving addition, subtraction and decimals. Wonderful effort, Karmveer!

3/4M: James N -

For demonstrating a love of learning and perseverance when working diligently on your persuasive holiday brochure. It was excellent to see you correctly structure your writing. Keep it up, James!

3/4O: Maddie T -

For demonstrating a love of learning and bravery when explaining your number pattern strategy. It was excellent to see you explaining your numberline to the class. Magnificent work Maddie.

3/4R: Gavin C -

For consistently demonstrating a love of learning by completing your digital reading log and providing detailed comments. It is great to see you always giving it your best effort. Great work, Gavin!

3/4W: Amelie B -

For demonstrating perseverance and a love of learning when completing your Maths pattern tasks. You challenged yourself to solve your rule that included addition and subtraction and showed your working out on a number line and in number sentences.