English/Literacy
National Simultaneous Story Time 2023: Fostering a Love for Reading at Lyndale
This year, Lyndale Secondary College once again formed an educational alliance with Lyndale Greens Primary School for the 2023 National Simultaneous Story Time, a shared reading experience that saw all of Lyndale Greens' Year 2 students come to our library on Wednesday, 24th May. This cooperative venture highlights our school's commitment to fostering a love of reading, creativity, and community engagement among students of all ages.
Guiding this educational adventure were our Readers' Revolt leaders and the Year 9 Language for Learning students, who effectively took their role as mentors. Their joint effort in managing the event ensured that it was a fun and enriching experience for all participants.
The students began their literary journey by delving into the delightful world of the 2023 National Simultaneous Story Time picture book, 'The Speedy Sloth.' Small groups, led by our student leaders, huddled together, their ears perked as they were captivated by the story. Once the story reached its conclusion, the event transitioned into a hands-on craft session. Our student leaders, well-prepared and eager, encouraged the Year 2 students to explore their creativity by designing and constructing crafts related to the 'Speedy Sloth' tale. This experiential learning opportunity resulted in heart-warming collaboration between the Year 2 students and our students.
This event provided more than just an enjoyable experience; it was a platform for our students to develop and hone their communication skills. As they prepared and participated in this event, they practised reading fluently, learned how to formulate and ask engaging questions, honed their leadership capabilities, including effective communication and responsibility, and demonstrated their prowess in planning and implementing their craft activity.
We thank everyone involved in making this event a memorable and rewarding experience.
Readers' Revolt Literary Leaders Experience ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’
On Wednesday, May 3rd, our Readers' Revolt Literacy Leaders ventured on an excursion to experience the famed production of ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.’
The morning unfolded at The Emporium, where the tranquil ambiance was elevated by the harmonious piano performance of our talented student, Matthew Dinh, adding a touch of elegance to the outing.
Our journey then led us through the Treasury Gardens, a serene oasis in the heart of the city, offering a refreshing commune with nature.
The climax of our excursion was the performance of ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’. A feast for the senses, the production delivered awe-inspiring choreography, spectacular fire special effects, and spine-chilling appearances by the infamous Dementors.
The day was an unforgettable blend of enchanting moments, engaging performances, and the unique experience of literature brought to life. A testament to the magic of Harry Potter and the joy of shared experiences, this adventure left an indelible mark on our Literacy Leaders, echoing the power and wonder of literature.
Lyndale's Harry Potter Day
Our school transformed into a realm of magic on Thursday, 25th May for our annual Harry Potter Day. A well-planned lunchtime event, devised by our Readers' Revolt Leaders, immersed students who attended in Hogwarts-themed activities.
Our school band set the mood, their renditions of Harry Potter tunes enchanting the air as festivities began. Students engaged in an array of activities, from bookmark crafting to a spirited Harry Potter-themed Kahoot trivia contest.
The magic amplified as students found their Hogwarts Houses via the Sorting Hat, adding a slice of the wizarding world to their day. Face painting and a photobooth amplified the fun, capturing the day's excitement.
The surprise guest, Professor Dumbledore, brought authenticity to our magical celebration, much to everyone's delight.
We extend gratitude to our Music Department, college musicians, and the Year 12 Captains for their invaluable contributions in making Harry Potter Day a spellbinding success.
The Winners of the Change the Harry Potter Book Cover Competition were:
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
Ist place: Zaryab Baig (Year 12)
2nd place: Chanithu Gallage, Akshaj Mathur, Nish Patel (8C)
3rd place: Ayaan Maniar, Yonal Sri Yajamahan and Ayaan Khorasi (8C)
Kalli Ioannou-Booth
Director of Whole School Literacy
Silent Conversations
Here is a moment from a typical English lesson in which a silent conversation is taking place. It is a popular thinking process used in our classrooms to explore text themes in depth. It involves students walking around the room, responding in writing to written prompts and building on each-others’ ideas.
Benchmarking in English
Every English CAT is thoroughly benchmarked by teachers to ensure equity in our marking process. It is always a rewarding experience, where teachers who teach the same year level come together to discuss student work and reach consensus on student grades.
The Debating Association of Victoria (The DAV)
We are coming up to the end of another debating season for our students in Years 8 to12. It has been an extremely exciting semester at Haileybury with several wins on our hands. We are now opening the season up to Year 7s who are invited to take part in the junior DAV competition on-line. Training sessions will be on offer next term along with support and guidance from our senior debaters.
Polly Poon
English Domain Leader