Reflections: Weeks 8 & 9
Year 6 started the new Unit of Inquiry ''Life is a Cabaret''. We have only a short time for this unit and lots to do. Lots of activity has been taking place in the classroom, the computer room and even in the corridor as the students prepare for their final presentation for the unit which will be part of the graduation ceremony. You are in for a great surprise!
In Maths students have been using their Maths text books as a homework and class resource. The main focus of our remaining Maths lessons will be to revise some of the number concepts taught so far this year. Students are working on some Maths skills of their own so they can improve known areas of weakness, but we have also been doing some whole class work from the text book.
Mathematics
Students will continue with the revision of number skills using the text book, but we will also have class lessons based on certain skills. Students this week will complete a basic skills test to be used by the year 7 staff to determine the Maths ability of the students going to year 7 next year.
English
The focus of our English program has been to practise and rehearse the script for the upcoming Year 6 Graduation. The children have been focusing on presentation and speaking skills as well as learning some creative writing techniques and basic narrative writing skills. Students have been given different tasks for the Graduation and so the writing skills being learnt vary for each group.
Year 6 Graduation
Remember to return the seating request form to school as soon as possible if you have not done so already.
Important Reminders• June 26, 9.20 – 10.30am: Year 6 Graduation
• July 3 – Last day of school. School ends at 12:00.
• Homework - students are to do at least 4 pages of Maths revision per week for homework. Work not done at home will be done during detention at school.
• Exhibition Slideshow: just click HERE and you can see photos of the Exhibition
This is our last Newsletter for the year. We wish to thank you all for your assistance throughout the year and wish you also a healthy and happy Summer holiday.
Mr David Barrett, Mr David Gocentas & Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Friday, June 19, 2009
Friday, June 5, 2009
Weekly News 5th - 19th June
Reflections: The Exhibition
Well, the Exhibition is over for another year. And what a great Exhibition it was. All of the students did well on the day, but the teachers were particularly pleased with those students who had shown a great effort and commitment to the whole process of the Exhibition over the 6 week period and required very little assistance to complete all of their research and presentation. The visitors from the I.B.O. were extremely impressed with the organization and presentation and gave a high commendation to staff and students. So, well done to all students and staff, and to you the parents who had to assist with the Exhibition at home in so many ways.
Unit of inquiry
This week we begin our final unit of the year. It is a short unit that is linked directly to the Year 6 Graduation. The unit is called Life is a Cabaret and has the central idea - there are many roles to play in creating and mounting a theatrical production. During the unit each student will have a role to play to ensure that this is the best graduation ceremony ever! Read below for further details about this exciting event!
Mathematics
By now you are aware that Mr Thompson has distributed maths textbooks to each child in Year 6. This week we will begin to use these text books as a homework and class resource. The main focus of our remaining maths lessons will be to revise some of the number concepts taught so far this year. Last week the children completed a maths test and the results of their tests will help us to identify and focus our maths program over the coming weeks.
English
The focus of our English program over the coming weeks will be to practise and rehearse the script for the upcoming Year 6 Graduation. The children will focus on presentation and speaking skills as well as learn some narrative writing techniques. As each Year 6 student will have a different role to perform for the Graduation ceremony, eg. designing and writing programs, writing letters to parents, etc., the English skills will depend on their individual role/job.
Year 6 Graduation
The Year 6 Graduation Ceremony will be held on Friday, 26 June. In preparation for the ceremony, we are asking the children to bring in a baby photo and a Year 1 or 2 photo of themselves (but not necessarily at school). All will be revealed and seen on Graduation day!
Well, the Exhibition is over for another year. And what a great Exhibition it was. All of the students did well on the day, but the teachers were particularly pleased with those students who had shown a great effort and commitment to the whole process of the Exhibition over the 6 week period and required very little assistance to complete all of their research and presentation. The visitors from the I.B.O. were extremely impressed with the organization and presentation and gave a high commendation to staff and students. So, well done to all students and staff, and to you the parents who had to assist with the Exhibition at home in so many ways.
Unit of inquiry
This week we begin our final unit of the year. It is a short unit that is linked directly to the Year 6 Graduation. The unit is called Life is a Cabaret and has the central idea - there are many roles to play in creating and mounting a theatrical production. During the unit each student will have a role to play to ensure that this is the best graduation ceremony ever! Read below for further details about this exciting event!
Mathematics
By now you are aware that Mr Thompson has distributed maths textbooks to each child in Year 6. This week we will begin to use these text books as a homework and class resource. The main focus of our remaining maths lessons will be to revise some of the number concepts taught so far this year. Last week the children completed a maths test and the results of their tests will help us to identify and focus our maths program over the coming weeks.
English
The focus of our English program over the coming weeks will be to practise and rehearse the script for the upcoming Year 6 Graduation. The children will focus on presentation and speaking skills as well as learn some narrative writing techniques. As each Year 6 student will have a different role to perform for the Graduation ceremony, eg. designing and writing programs, writing letters to parents, etc., the English skills will depend on their individual role/job.
Year 6 Graduation
The Year 6 Graduation Ceremony will be held on Friday, 26 June. In preparation for the ceremony, we are asking the children to bring in a baby photo and a Year 1 or 2 photo of themselves (but not necessarily at school). All will be revealed and seen on Graduation day!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Weekly News 30th March - 3rd April
Reflections:16th–20th March
Last week we mainly worked on our final assessment task – designing and writing a brochure or book about puberty. The aim of the task is to show a good understanding of the whole process of puberty and how we should deal with it. After the Easter break students will start the Exhibition, so we also spent a lot of time discussing what personal issues the students feel they would like to investigate this year. Students decided on a range of issues and these were then discussed by the teachers and a list made from which the students will choose their preferences.
Unit of Inquiry
This week students will choose their Exhibition topics and groups will be finalized according to their choices. Remember, groups will be made from students from both year 6 classes.
Students will finish their assessment task for the ‘’Moving Forward’’ unit (the brochure or book). This will need to be completed and handed to the teachers by Friday. They will be checked over the holidays and students will be given their assessment rubric first week back after Easter.
Mathematics
This week we will continue our work on fractions and will have an assessment of the work done so far. We will continue to revise angles and 2D and 3D shapes. We will also revise other areas of Maths to keep skills fresh in the minds of the students.
English
This week we will focus on the information that will be needed for the assessment task for the unit “Moving Forward”. Students will finish either a brochure or a small book which details the changes and issues that occur during puberty and the transition from junior school to senior school.
What can I do to help?
• Students may want to discuss with you the issues for the Exhibition. It is important for parents to take an active part in the Exhibition as students will need to do some work at home during the 6 weeks of the Exhibition.
• Please remind your child to keep practising their maths on the maths games websites that they have access to. It is important to keep maths skills fresh in the mind.
• There will be no set class homework this week. Students will have to revise their maths (fractions) and complete their puberty brochure or book if necessary.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Last week we mainly worked on our final assessment task – designing and writing a brochure or book about puberty. The aim of the task is to show a good understanding of the whole process of puberty and how we should deal with it. After the Easter break students will start the Exhibition, so we also spent a lot of time discussing what personal issues the students feel they would like to investigate this year. Students decided on a range of issues and these were then discussed by the teachers and a list made from which the students will choose their preferences.
Unit of Inquiry
This week students will choose their Exhibition topics and groups will be finalized according to their choices. Remember, groups will be made from students from both year 6 classes.
Students will finish their assessment task for the ‘’Moving Forward’’ unit (the brochure or book). This will need to be completed and handed to the teachers by Friday. They will be checked over the holidays and students will be given their assessment rubric first week back after Easter.
Mathematics
This week we will continue our work on fractions and will have an assessment of the work done so far. We will continue to revise angles and 2D and 3D shapes. We will also revise other areas of Maths to keep skills fresh in the minds of the students.
English
This week we will focus on the information that will be needed for the assessment task for the unit “Moving Forward”. Students will finish either a brochure or a small book which details the changes and issues that occur during puberty and the transition from junior school to senior school.
What can I do to help?
• Students may want to discuss with you the issues for the Exhibition. It is important for parents to take an active part in the Exhibition as students will need to do some work at home during the 6 weeks of the Exhibition.
• Please remind your child to keep practising their maths on the maths games websites that they have access to. It is important to keep maths skills fresh in the mind.
• There will be no set class homework this week. Students will have to revise their maths (fractions) and complete their puberty brochure or book if necessary.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Weekly News 23rd - 27th March
Reflections:9th–13th March
Last week we watched a BBC video about the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty. Teachers were impressed with the maturity shown by the students during the discussion. Last week we also focused on the major issues that arise due to “peer pressure”, especially as students are now looking forward to going on to senior school next year. After the Easter break students will start the Exhibition, so we also spent a lot of time discussing what may be the major issues that students feel they would like to investigate this year. “Action”, doing something about things that concern us, solving problems, is an important part of the PYP and the Exhibition, so our discussions concentrated a lot on the issues which students feel that they can actually do something about. There will be more information about the Exhibition topics soon. In the meantime, please don’t forget the Exhibition Information Meeting for Parents on 31 March, 2009 at 7pm.
Unit of Inquiry
This week we will continue with the discussion and investigation of peer pressure and topics for the Exhibition. We will have a visit to our classes from some senior school students to discuss with year 6 some of the issues and problems that year 6 feel they would like to talk about concerning puberty and starting senior school. Senior students will be able to share some of their experiences. Thanks must go to Ulrica Oom for assisting us with these sessions and arranging for the visit by the senior students.
Mathematics
This week we will continue our work on fractions, in particular, extending addition and subtraction facts to improper and mixed numbers. Fraction work will be the major focus of our number groups until the end of Term 2. In class Maths we will continue to revise angles and 2D and 3D shapes. We will also revise other areas of Maths to keep skills fresh in the minds of the students.
English
This week we will focus on the information that will be needed for the assessment task for the unit “Moving Forward”. Students will have to create either a brochure or a small booklet which details the changes and issues that occur during puberty and the transition from junior school to senior school.
What can I do to help?
• Students may want to discuss with you some of the aspects of their upcoming assessment task. You may want to ask your child what they think are the main issues that need to be included in their brochure or booklet. Also, please remind your child to keep practicing their maths on the maths games websites that they have access to. It is important to keep maths skills fresh in the mind.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Last week we watched a BBC video about the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty. Teachers were impressed with the maturity shown by the students during the discussion. Last week we also focused on the major issues that arise due to “peer pressure”, especially as students are now looking forward to going on to senior school next year. After the Easter break students will start the Exhibition, so we also spent a lot of time discussing what may be the major issues that students feel they would like to investigate this year. “Action”, doing something about things that concern us, solving problems, is an important part of the PYP and the Exhibition, so our discussions concentrated a lot on the issues which students feel that they can actually do something about. There will be more information about the Exhibition topics soon. In the meantime, please don’t forget the Exhibition Information Meeting for Parents on 31 March, 2009 at 7pm.
Unit of Inquiry
This week we will continue with the discussion and investigation of peer pressure and topics for the Exhibition. We will have a visit to our classes from some senior school students to discuss with year 6 some of the issues and problems that year 6 feel they would like to talk about concerning puberty and starting senior school. Senior students will be able to share some of their experiences. Thanks must go to Ulrica Oom for assisting us with these sessions and arranging for the visit by the senior students.
Mathematics
This week we will continue our work on fractions, in particular, extending addition and subtraction facts to improper and mixed numbers. Fraction work will be the major focus of our number groups until the end of Term 2. In class Maths we will continue to revise angles and 2D and 3D shapes. We will also revise other areas of Maths to keep skills fresh in the minds of the students.
English
This week we will focus on the information that will be needed for the assessment task for the unit “Moving Forward”. Students will have to create either a brochure or a small booklet which details the changes and issues that occur during puberty and the transition from junior school to senior school.
What can I do to help?
• Students may want to discuss with you some of the aspects of their upcoming assessment task. You may want to ask your child what they think are the main issues that need to be included in their brochure or booklet. Also, please remind your child to keep practicing their maths on the maths games websites that they have access to. It is important to keep maths skills fresh in the mind.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Weekly News: 16th - 20th February
This week promises to be another big week in Year 6. As the Junior School Production The Magical Mystery Tour is only two weeks away many of the students are busy rehearsing and preparing for upcoming show. In the meantime, our current unit continues to spark the children’s interest and motivate them in their learning.
Reflections 9th – 13th March
During the second week of our unit Moving Forward the children continued to research and investigate the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty. One of the highlights of the week saw the children separate into two groups (boys and girls) and meet with Mr Barrett/Mr Gocentas and Ms Isabel/Ms Jones to ask questions about the various physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty. All teachers were very impressed with the children’s questions and the level of maturity shown by most of the students. Well done!
This Week
Unit of Inquiry
This week we will again practise good research skills as we investigate additional facts about puberty. During the week we will be watching a BBC documentary on puberty where the children will view a number of interviews with different teenagers sharing their experiences about puberty. Later in the week we also plan to introduce and discuss the idea of peer pressure. We are also hoping to host some senior students from SDIS to discuss their experiences with peer pressure and offer some strategies for dealing with peer pressure.
Mathematics
We continue our work on fractions this week, particularly adding and subtracting fractions with like and unlike denominators. The children are generally progressing well in their fraction work and are mostly able to simplify fractions and find equivalents (of course this is much easier if the children know all their multiples and factors). In class maths we spent last week measuring and identifying angles. We will continue work on this concept as we prepare to focus on 2-D and 3-D shapes in the coming weeks.
English
In learning about puberty the children have researched puberty facts from both primary (experts) and secondary (reading materials) sources. This week they will practise their note-taking skills as they record facts and notes while watching a BBC documentary about puberty. The children will also use their research and note-taking skills to begin to write factual statements about puberty. During our library research sessions this week the children will continue to refine their skills in using online reference websites, eg. www.bibme.org. In our reading groups the children will continue to read information texts with the view to increasing their vocabulary as well learning more about puberty.
What can I do to help?
# A great website to use with your children throughout our current unit (especially as part of their reading homework) is the Kid’s Health site http://kidshealth.org/kid/
# Please ask your children about the work we have been doing in class. The more adults that speak to them about puberty and help them to understand the inevitable physical and emotional changes that will occur, the less likely the children will be confused about this very important phase of their lives.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Reflections 9th – 13th March
During the second week of our unit Moving Forward the children continued to research and investigate the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty. One of the highlights of the week saw the children separate into two groups (boys and girls) and meet with Mr Barrett/Mr Gocentas and Ms Isabel/Ms Jones to ask questions about the various physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty. All teachers were very impressed with the children’s questions and the level of maturity shown by most of the students. Well done!
This Week
Unit of Inquiry
This week we will again practise good research skills as we investigate additional facts about puberty. During the week we will be watching a BBC documentary on puberty where the children will view a number of interviews with different teenagers sharing their experiences about puberty. Later in the week we also plan to introduce and discuss the idea of peer pressure. We are also hoping to host some senior students from SDIS to discuss their experiences with peer pressure and offer some strategies for dealing with peer pressure.
Mathematics
We continue our work on fractions this week, particularly adding and subtracting fractions with like and unlike denominators. The children are generally progressing well in their fraction work and are mostly able to simplify fractions and find equivalents (of course this is much easier if the children know all their multiples and factors). In class maths we spent last week measuring and identifying angles. We will continue work on this concept as we prepare to focus on 2-D and 3-D shapes in the coming weeks.
English
In learning about puberty the children have researched puberty facts from both primary (experts) and secondary (reading materials) sources. This week they will practise their note-taking skills as they record facts and notes while watching a BBC documentary about puberty. The children will also use their research and note-taking skills to begin to write factual statements about puberty. During our library research sessions this week the children will continue to refine their skills in using online reference websites, eg. www.bibme.org. In our reading groups the children will continue to read information texts with the view to increasing their vocabulary as well learning more about puberty.
What can I do to help?
# A great website to use with your children throughout our current unit (especially as part of their reading homework) is the Kid’s Health site http://kidshealth.org/kid/
# Please ask your children about the work we have been doing in class. The more adults that speak to them about puberty and help them to understand the inevitable physical and emotional changes that will occur, the less likely the children will be confused about this very important phase of their lives.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Monday, March 9, 2009
Weekly News 9th - 13th March
Reflections:9th–13th March
Last week we started our new unit “Moving Forward” which focuses on the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty. The first lessons and discussions started with the inevitable nervousness and embarrassment from many of the students, but students soon adapted to the situation and we had some great discussions and activities. We discussed words that we would need to use to properly look at the process of puberty and students did some written activities to show how much they already knew of the process. They realized too with the discussions that the information they are learning, although embarrassing at times, is necessary for them to deal with the changes that occur, not just with puberty, but with moving to year 7next year.
Unit of Inquiry
This week we will continue with the discussion and investigation of the physical and emotional changes of puberty and we will watch some videos from the BBC which were made specifically to introduce both boys and girls to some of the main issues. Boys and girls will be introduced to the changes that they each experience and have to deal with so that they have a better understanding for both boys and girls.
Mathematics
This week we will continue our work on fractions. Fraction work will be the major focus of our number groups until the end of Term 2. In class Maths we will continue to revise the measurement concepts taught earlier in the year, particularly perimeter, area, volume and capacity. The work done in these areas last week has already shown a great improvement in these areas so we will continue and strengthen the students understanding of these concepts.
English
This week we will continue to focus on the vocabulary needed for our unit of inquiry. Students need to practice how to spell, but also how to use words correctly in English. We will continue our research on the topic of puberty and with Mrs Barrett will continue to learn how to use online resources for bibliographies so that we can properly acknowledge sources of information we use in our research. This will be an essential part of this unit and also of the Exhibition next term.
What can I do to help?
Students may want to discuss with you some of the aspects of what we are studying. It is an important feature of the unit and allows the students to establish a more mature relationship with their parents. Please be open to discussions with your child as this will allow this maturity to develop in a healthy way.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Last week we started our new unit “Moving Forward” which focuses on the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty. The first lessons and discussions started with the inevitable nervousness and embarrassment from many of the students, but students soon adapted to the situation and we had some great discussions and activities. We discussed words that we would need to use to properly look at the process of puberty and students did some written activities to show how much they already knew of the process. They realized too with the discussions that the information they are learning, although embarrassing at times, is necessary for them to deal with the changes that occur, not just with puberty, but with moving to year 7next year.
Unit of Inquiry
This week we will continue with the discussion and investigation of the physical and emotional changes of puberty and we will watch some videos from the BBC which were made specifically to introduce both boys and girls to some of the main issues. Boys and girls will be introduced to the changes that they each experience and have to deal with so that they have a better understanding for both boys and girls.
Mathematics
This week we will continue our work on fractions. Fraction work will be the major focus of our number groups until the end of Term 2. In class Maths we will continue to revise the measurement concepts taught earlier in the year, particularly perimeter, area, volume and capacity. The work done in these areas last week has already shown a great improvement in these areas so we will continue and strengthen the students understanding of these concepts.
English
This week we will continue to focus on the vocabulary needed for our unit of inquiry. Students need to practice how to spell, but also how to use words correctly in English. We will continue our research on the topic of puberty and with Mrs Barrett will continue to learn how to use online resources for bibliographies so that we can properly acknowledge sources of information we use in our research. This will be an essential part of this unit and also of the Exhibition next term.
What can I do to help?
Students may want to discuss with you some of the aspects of what we are studying. It is an important feature of the unit and allows the students to establish a more mature relationship with their parents. Please be open to discussions with your child as this will allow this maturity to develop in a healthy way.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Monday, March 2, 2009
Weekly News: 2nd - 6th March
Welcome back to the second half of Term 2! We hope you had a relaxing and enjoyable mid-term break. The remainder of this term promises to be very entertaining and interesting as we begin our fourth unit of inquiry.
Reflections:16th–20th February
The final week before the mid-term break saw the majority of children complete their final assessments for our third unit, Testing, Testing 1,2,3. The children did a good job in investigating and comparing different brands of the same product and testing them for quality and value-for-money. The last week before the break also saw the children enjoy another fantastic Portuguese Poetry Day as well as the always entertaining and fun Carnaval parade.
Unit of Inquiry
This week we begin our fourth unit for the year, Moving Forward. The central idea of the unit is growing up means coping with change and learning about ourselves. We will be inquiring into the physical and emotional changes experienced during puberty and the strategies for coping with change. This is a particularly relevant unit for the children as many of them are already experiencing the physical and emotional changes associated with puberty and have many questions. Please note that the scope of the unit will be restricted to the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty rather than discussing and teaching reproduction. However, please be aware that the children will naturally be curious about reproduction and will want to discuss this topic with you.
During our first week we will introduce the children to some key vocabulary that will be used throughout the unit as well as do some pre-assessment activities to ascertain what they already know about puberty.
Mathematics
This week we resume our work on fractions. Fraction work will be the major focus of our number groups until the end of Term 2. This week we will revise fraction terminology, representing fractions and finding fractions of groups. In class maths we will revise some of the measurement concepts taught during our last unit, particularly perimeter, area, volume and capacity as a number of the children require further consolidation of these concepts.
English
The major focus of our English work throughout this unit will be to read, research and write factual information reports. The children will continue to practise good reading and comprehension skills during reading groups this week as they learn some basic information and vocabulary about puberty.
What can I do to help?
•A great website to use with your children throughout our current unit (especially as part of their reading homework) is the Kid’s Health site http://kidshealth.org/kid/
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Reflections:16th–20th February
The final week before the mid-term break saw the majority of children complete their final assessments for our third unit, Testing, Testing 1,2,3. The children did a good job in investigating and comparing different brands of the same product and testing them for quality and value-for-money. The last week before the break also saw the children enjoy another fantastic Portuguese Poetry Day as well as the always entertaining and fun Carnaval parade.
Unit of Inquiry
This week we begin our fourth unit for the year, Moving Forward. The central idea of the unit is growing up means coping with change and learning about ourselves. We will be inquiring into the physical and emotional changes experienced during puberty and the strategies for coping with change. This is a particularly relevant unit for the children as many of them are already experiencing the physical and emotional changes associated with puberty and have many questions. Please note that the scope of the unit will be restricted to the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty rather than discussing and teaching reproduction. However, please be aware that the children will naturally be curious about reproduction and will want to discuss this topic with you.
During our first week we will introduce the children to some key vocabulary that will be used throughout the unit as well as do some pre-assessment activities to ascertain what they already know about puberty.
Mathematics
This week we resume our work on fractions. Fraction work will be the major focus of our number groups until the end of Term 2. This week we will revise fraction terminology, representing fractions and finding fractions of groups. In class maths we will revise some of the measurement concepts taught during our last unit, particularly perimeter, area, volume and capacity as a number of the children require further consolidation of these concepts.
English
The major focus of our English work throughout this unit will be to read, research and write factual information reports. The children will continue to practise good reading and comprehension skills during reading groups this week as they learn some basic information and vocabulary about puberty.
What can I do to help?
•A great website to use with your children throughout our current unit (especially as part of their reading homework) is the Kid’s Health site http://kidshealth.org/kid/
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Friday, February 13, 2009
Weekly News: 16th - 20th February
Week 7 is here already and the students are about to undertake their final testing of a commercial product. I am sure they are all looking forward to Carnival celebrations on Friday and the week’s break next week.
Reflections – 9th–13th February
Last week began with the Year 3-6 field trip to Jeronimo Martins. It was a great success and the students enjoyed the day out and saw some real life work practices. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday the students took part in international basic skills tests which involved maths, writing and reading comprehension. They also practised some maths measurement skills (volume, capacity, length and mass – skills which will be needed this week for their own test procedure.) Students organised their small groups for the testing to be done this week and prepared a draft of the procedure they will need to follow for their test. They also listed the equipment they will need for the test.
Weekly News:
Unit of Inquiry
This week we continue our summative assessment task. The students will finish their draft of the test procedure (lab report) and then carry out the test. The test of their commercial product must follow strict scientific procedures so that the results of the test are reliable. If the test does not succeed at the first attempt the procedure may need to be changed and tried again. Students will also assist in the drafting of the assessment rubric which will be used to assess the testing procedure.
Mathematics
This week we will continue with division and fractions, including decimals and percentages. Students will also do a short revision test of the measurement skills practised last week – skills which are used in their testing procedures.
English
The children will draft and then complete their science lab reports to show the aim, procedure, results and conclusions from their science test.
Homework Click on Homework to see your work for this week.
What can I do to help?
•Maths - please continue to refer to the information booklet that was distributed to parents in Term 1. This document has valuable information about different strategies and methods used to teach maths.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
for further information please email Mr Barrett at djboz52@gmail.com
Reflections – 9th–13th February
Last week began with the Year 3-6 field trip to Jeronimo Martins. It was a great success and the students enjoyed the day out and saw some real life work practices. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday the students took part in international basic skills tests which involved maths, writing and reading comprehension. They also practised some maths measurement skills (volume, capacity, length and mass – skills which will be needed this week for their own test procedure.) Students organised their small groups for the testing to be done this week and prepared a draft of the procedure they will need to follow for their test. They also listed the equipment they will need for the test.
Weekly News:
Unit of Inquiry
This week we continue our summative assessment task. The students will finish their draft of the test procedure (lab report) and then carry out the test. The test of their commercial product must follow strict scientific procedures so that the results of the test are reliable. If the test does not succeed at the first attempt the procedure may need to be changed and tried again. Students will also assist in the drafting of the assessment rubric which will be used to assess the testing procedure.
Mathematics
This week we will continue with division and fractions, including decimals and percentages. Students will also do a short revision test of the measurement skills practised last week – skills which are used in their testing procedures.
English
The children will draft and then complete their science lab reports to show the aim, procedure, results and conclusions from their science test.
Homework Click on Homework to see your work for this week.
What can I do to help?
•Maths - please continue to refer to the information booklet that was distributed to parents in Term 1. This document has valuable information about different strategies and methods used to teach maths.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
for further information please email Mr Barrett at djboz52@gmail.com
Monday, February 9, 2009
Weekly News: 9th - 13th February
Weekly News
Week 6 has arrived and the children are just about to start their summative assessment for the unit. The children have enjoyed several experiments in recent weeks and are now in a position to do some quality control testing of their own!
Reflections – 2nd – 6th February
Last week began with the Year 3-6 cross country races. Thank you to all parents and supporters who braved the cold and wet conditions to support the children. Last week also saw the children focus on our third teacher question, why do we need quality control tests? Children learned about recent product recalls and what can happen in the case of companies who sell defective products, eg. the recent case of contaminated milk being sold in China. Late in the week we also formed small groups to test the elasticity of 2 different brands of rubber bands with the children supporting each other to develop their own hypothesis and quality control tests. The end of the week saw the children tested on their understanding of division concepts taught throughout the Term 2.
Unit of Inquiry
This week we turn our attention to our summative assessment and answering student-initiated questions. In the early part of the week the children will form small groups and choose a product type, eg. nappies, batteries, toilet paper, etc. and compare different brands and perform various quality control tests to determine the best quality products. They will also be asked to examine which of the chosen brands offer the best value for money. In performing these tests, the children will need to demonstrate good thinking skills and come up with accurate and fair quality control tests.
Mathematics
Following last week’s division test, the children will spend some time going over their test results and clarifying any misunderstandings they might have. We will also begin work on fractions this week which we were unable to start last week due to time constraints. While the children are improving their application and understanding of both written and mental strategies for division, many children still need to practise their times tables to 10. While we regularly practise these at school, children really need to be doing time tables exercises and games as part of their maths practise at home. In our class maths groups we will continue working on measuring the mass of different objects through a variety of problem-solving tasks.
English
The children will consolidate their understanding of how to accurately present and write science lab reports. They are now familiar with the various parts of a lab report and will demonstrate their understanding of this genre as part of their summative assessment task. Reading groups will continue to focus on good reading and comprehension strategies, with a particular focus this week on how to respond to different questions showing good thinking skills.
Homework Click on Homework to see your work for this week.
What can I do to help?
• Maths - please continue to refer to the information booklet that was distributed to parents in Term 1. This document has valuable information about different strategies and methods used to teach maths.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Week 6 has arrived and the children are just about to start their summative assessment for the unit. The children have enjoyed several experiments in recent weeks and are now in a position to do some quality control testing of their own!
Reflections – 2nd – 6th February
Last week began with the Year 3-6 cross country races. Thank you to all parents and supporters who braved the cold and wet conditions to support the children. Last week also saw the children focus on our third teacher question, why do we need quality control tests? Children learned about recent product recalls and what can happen in the case of companies who sell defective products, eg. the recent case of contaminated milk being sold in China. Late in the week we also formed small groups to test the elasticity of 2 different brands of rubber bands with the children supporting each other to develop their own hypothesis and quality control tests. The end of the week saw the children tested on their understanding of division concepts taught throughout the Term 2.
Unit of Inquiry
This week we turn our attention to our summative assessment and answering student-initiated questions. In the early part of the week the children will form small groups and choose a product type, eg. nappies, batteries, toilet paper, etc. and compare different brands and perform various quality control tests to determine the best quality products. They will also be asked to examine which of the chosen brands offer the best value for money. In performing these tests, the children will need to demonstrate good thinking skills and come up with accurate and fair quality control tests.
Mathematics
Following last week’s division test, the children will spend some time going over their test results and clarifying any misunderstandings they might have. We will also begin work on fractions this week which we were unable to start last week due to time constraints. While the children are improving their application and understanding of both written and mental strategies for division, many children still need to practise their times tables to 10. While we regularly practise these at school, children really need to be doing time tables exercises and games as part of their maths practise at home. In our class maths groups we will continue working on measuring the mass of different objects through a variety of problem-solving tasks.
English
The children will consolidate their understanding of how to accurately present and write science lab reports. They are now familiar with the various parts of a lab report and will demonstrate their understanding of this genre as part of their summative assessment task. Reading groups will continue to focus on good reading and comprehension strategies, with a particular focus this week on how to respond to different questions showing good thinking skills.
Homework Click on Homework to see your work for this week.
What can I do to help?
• Maths - please continue to refer to the information booklet that was distributed to parents in Term 1. This document has valuable information about different strategies and methods used to teach maths.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Weekly News: 2nd — 6th February
Week 5 is here and we are in the midst of more testing! Throughout our current unit of inquiry the children have had to demonstrate good teamwork, knowledge and thinking skills. This week will be no different!
Reflections – 26th–30th January
Last week we had a big focus on our second teacher question, how are products tested? Students spent much of the week learning about quality control testing, including failure testing, statistical testing and animal testing. We did some hands-on experiments last week to experience quality control first-hand. The students in 6G designed ‘egg transportation devices’ that had to safely transport an egg from a height of 3 metres to the floor without causing the egg to crack. While in 6B the students had to design bridges that could withstand various weights without collapsing (stress testing). In both cases, the children had to ensure appropriate quality control checks to ensure that their completed designs worked.
Weekly News: 2nd — 6th February
Unit of Inquiry
This week we turn our attention to our final teacher question, why do we need quality control? During the week we will look closely at some case studies where consumers have been injured or deceived by poor quality products and what the repercussions were for the companies involved. We will continue doing more hands-on science experiments this week and begin our rubber band elasticity testing that was originally planned for last week.
Mathematics
The focus of our maths groups this week will be to revise division concepts taught during Term 2 and to begin to introduce fraction concepts. The children are improving their application and understanding of both written and mental strategies for division and will be tested on their understanding of these strategies later in the week. In our class maths groups we will turn our attention towards accurately measuring the mass of different objects through a variety of problem-solving tasks.
English
The children will continue to learn about the purpose, structure and language features of lab reports. They are now familiar with the various parts of a lab report and will continue to develop their skills in this area. Reading groups will continue to focus on good reading and comprehension strategies, with a particular focus this week on how to respond to questions in their own words rather than copying large chunks of writing from a text.
Homework Click on the link to see the homework for this week. Remember, homework that is not neat and complete will not be marked. Students must also make sure all work is checked to make sure it makes sense and spelling is correct.
What can I do to help?
• Don’t forget to check the class blogs to find links to sites that will support your child in their class work. Look for the Testing, Testing 1,2,3 link in the Unit of Inquiry menu box to find great websites and information for you and your child.
• Maths - please continue to refer to the information booklet that was distributed to parents in Term 1. This document has valuable information about different strategies and methods used to teach maths.
Upcoming Events and Reminders:
• We are currently negotiating our first field trip for the year. We are very lucky to have a Year 6 parent who works for a company who is involved in product and quality control testing. As soon as dates and details are confirmed we will let you know.
• As in previous years, we will be celebrating Carnival with a parade. This will take place in the afternoon of the 20th of February. The children dress up in fancy costume and we all gather in the Gym for a parade and an afternoon of music and dancing. Please prepare a carnival costume for your child. We regret that we are unable to invite parents on that day.
• Portuguese Poetry and Mother Tongue Language Day – 19 February.
• Half –term break – 23 – 27 February.
• Music - From term 2 all music sheets will be posted only on Ms Balazs’ blog. If you need a hard copy, you should contact your Ms Balazs.
Latest Additions to the Blog this week:
Photos of the Bridge Stress Test
Boolify
Noodletools
Safe Toys for Kids
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
for further information please email Mr Barrett at djboz52@gmail.com
Reflections – 26th–30th January
Last week we had a big focus on our second teacher question, how are products tested? Students spent much of the week learning about quality control testing, including failure testing, statistical testing and animal testing. We did some hands-on experiments last week to experience quality control first-hand. The students in 6G designed ‘egg transportation devices’ that had to safely transport an egg from a height of 3 metres to the floor without causing the egg to crack. While in 6B the students had to design bridges that could withstand various weights without collapsing (stress testing). In both cases, the children had to ensure appropriate quality control checks to ensure that their completed designs worked.
Weekly News: 2nd — 6th February
Unit of Inquiry
This week we turn our attention to our final teacher question, why do we need quality control? During the week we will look closely at some case studies where consumers have been injured or deceived by poor quality products and what the repercussions were for the companies involved. We will continue doing more hands-on science experiments this week and begin our rubber band elasticity testing that was originally planned for last week.
Mathematics
The focus of our maths groups this week will be to revise division concepts taught during Term 2 and to begin to introduce fraction concepts. The children are improving their application and understanding of both written and mental strategies for division and will be tested on their understanding of these strategies later in the week. In our class maths groups we will turn our attention towards accurately measuring the mass of different objects through a variety of problem-solving tasks.
English
The children will continue to learn about the purpose, structure and language features of lab reports. They are now familiar with the various parts of a lab report and will continue to develop their skills in this area. Reading groups will continue to focus on good reading and comprehension strategies, with a particular focus this week on how to respond to questions in their own words rather than copying large chunks of writing from a text.
Homework Click on the link to see the homework for this week. Remember, homework that is not neat and complete will not be marked. Students must also make sure all work is checked to make sure it makes sense and spelling is correct.
What can I do to help?
• Don’t forget to check the class blogs to find links to sites that will support your child in their class work. Look for the Testing, Testing 1,2,3 link in the Unit of Inquiry menu box to find great websites and information for you and your child.
• Maths - please continue to refer to the information booklet that was distributed to parents in Term 1. This document has valuable information about different strategies and methods used to teach maths.
Upcoming Events and Reminders:
• We are currently negotiating our first field trip for the year. We are very lucky to have a Year 6 parent who works for a company who is involved in product and quality control testing. As soon as dates and details are confirmed we will let you know.
• As in previous years, we will be celebrating Carnival with a parade. This will take place in the afternoon of the 20th of February. The children dress up in fancy costume and we all gather in the Gym for a parade and an afternoon of music and dancing. Please prepare a carnival costume for your child. We regret that we are unable to invite parents on that day.
• Portuguese Poetry and Mother Tongue Language Day – 19 February.
• Half –term break – 23 – 27 February.
• Music - From term 2 all music sheets will be posted only on Ms Balazs’ blog. If you need a hard copy, you should contact your Ms Balazs.
Latest Additions to the Blog this week:
Photos of the Bridge Stress Test
Boolify
Noodletools
Safe Toys for Kids
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
for further information please email Mr Barrett at djboz52@gmail.com
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Weekly News: 26th — 30th January
Week 4 is upon us already and we are well and truly into our third unit for the year. As our unit title suggests, testing is the main focus of our unit and this is certainly the case this week! We will be conducting some more scientific tests this week to again familiarise ourselves with writing lab reports and testing different products.
Reflections – 19th – 23rd January
Students continued to investigate our first teacher question for the year – “What are materials made from?” and finished writing up the results of our paper towels test in the form of a lab report. Mr Gocentas’ class spent part of the week investigating the periodic table in preparation for their assembly presentation while Mr Barrett’s class investigated different properties of materials as they designed their own cubby houses. The children in 6B did a great job with their cubby house designs and Mr Barrett is convinced there are a number of prospective architects in his class! The end of the week saw 6G do a fantastic job entertaining the Junior School at assembly. It was a lot of fun and the students should be congratulated on their efforts.
Unit of Inquiry
The children seem to have developed a good understanding of the types of materials companies use to make their products and the reasons why certain materials are used over others. This week we turn our attention to our second teacher question and look at the types of tests companies undertake on their products to ensure that they are safe and ready to be sold to the general public. We also begin our next stage of product testing this week. Our next test will see the children look at rubber bands and test them for their elasticity, strength and value for money.
Mathematics
The focus of our maths groups this week will again revolve around division concepts. The children are now familiar with a variety of mental and written methods for division and will apply this knowledge in solving algorithms and in problem-solving situations. Our focus in homeroom maths is on measurement concepts once again. We will continue to work on measuring the volume and capacity of different objects and shapes as well as start work on measuring the mass of different objects as part of our unit of inquiry work.
English
The children have now completed writing up their first science lab report under the guidance of their classroom teacher. The children will continue to work with this text type in class through a series of experiments and begin to develop their own lab reports and tests in the coming weeks. Reading groups will continue to focus on good reading and comprehension strategies, particularly on isolating key facts in a text.
Homework for this Week
Click on Homework to go there.
What can I do to help?
• Don’t forget to check the class blogs to find links to sites that will support your child in their class work. Look for the Testing, Testing 1,2,3 link in the Unit of Inquiry menu box to find great websites and information for you and your child.
• Use the class blogs as part of your child’s reading homework. There are many great links to interesting websites and articles on our Testing, Testing 1,2,3 page. Why not ask your child to read a particular article and report back to you the main facts from their reading!
Upcoming Events and Reminders:
• Thank you to those parents who have returned the second UOI reports to your child’s class teacher. If you haven’t already done so, please return your child’s rubric as soon as possible. Remember, if you have any feedback on the new reporting system this year please pass on your comments to your child’s classroom teacher.
• The Junior School cross country (Years 3-6) will be held on Friday, 30 January. Year 6 will be leaving school and walking to the course at 1:30pm and the race is scheduled to start at 1:45pm. Parents are more than welcome to attend and support the children. If the cross country event is cancelled due to wet weather, the race will be rescheduled for Monday, 2 February.
• Music - From term 2 all music sheets will be posted only on Ms Balazs’ blog. If you need a hard copy, you should contact your Ms Balazs.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Reflections – 19th – 23rd January
Students continued to investigate our first teacher question for the year – “What are materials made from?” and finished writing up the results of our paper towels test in the form of a lab report. Mr Gocentas’ class spent part of the week investigating the periodic table in preparation for their assembly presentation while Mr Barrett’s class investigated different properties of materials as they designed their own cubby houses. The children in 6B did a great job with their cubby house designs and Mr Barrett is convinced there are a number of prospective architects in his class! The end of the week saw 6G do a fantastic job entertaining the Junior School at assembly. It was a lot of fun and the students should be congratulated on their efforts.
Unit of Inquiry
The children seem to have developed a good understanding of the types of materials companies use to make their products and the reasons why certain materials are used over others. This week we turn our attention to our second teacher question and look at the types of tests companies undertake on their products to ensure that they are safe and ready to be sold to the general public. We also begin our next stage of product testing this week. Our next test will see the children look at rubber bands and test them for their elasticity, strength and value for money.
Mathematics
The focus of our maths groups this week will again revolve around division concepts. The children are now familiar with a variety of mental and written methods for division and will apply this knowledge in solving algorithms and in problem-solving situations. Our focus in homeroom maths is on measurement concepts once again. We will continue to work on measuring the volume and capacity of different objects and shapes as well as start work on measuring the mass of different objects as part of our unit of inquiry work.
English
The children have now completed writing up their first science lab report under the guidance of their classroom teacher. The children will continue to work with this text type in class through a series of experiments and begin to develop their own lab reports and tests in the coming weeks. Reading groups will continue to focus on good reading and comprehension strategies, particularly on isolating key facts in a text.
Homework for this Week
Click on Homework to go there.
What can I do to help?
• Don’t forget to check the class blogs to find links to sites that will support your child in their class work. Look for the Testing, Testing 1,2,3 link in the Unit of Inquiry menu box to find great websites and information for you and your child.
• Use the class blogs as part of your child’s reading homework. There are many great links to interesting websites and articles on our Testing, Testing 1,2,3 page. Why not ask your child to read a particular article and report back to you the main facts from their reading!
Upcoming Events and Reminders:
• Thank you to those parents who have returned the second UOI reports to your child’s class teacher. If you haven’t already done so, please return your child’s rubric as soon as possible. Remember, if you have any feedback on the new reporting system this year please pass on your comments to your child’s classroom teacher.
• The Junior School cross country (Years 3-6) will be held on Friday, 30 January. Year 6 will be leaving school and walking to the course at 1:30pm and the race is scheduled to start at 1:45pm. Parents are more than welcome to attend and support the children. If the cross country event is cancelled due to wet weather, the race will be rescheduled for Monday, 2 February.
• Music - From term 2 all music sheets will be posted only on Ms Balazs’ blog. If you need a hard copy, you should contact your Ms Balazs.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Friday, January 16, 2009
Latest News
It’s only week 3 but we’ve already had a busy start to the year. Mr Barrett’s class did a fantastic job entertaining us at last week’s assembly while our third unit for the year Testing, Testing 1,2,3 has got off to a flying start. We hope you have settled in for Term 2 after Christmas break and are well and truly back into your routines.
Reflections – 7th – 16th January
The children have made a great start to Term 2. We began work in class on answering our first teacher question for the unit, "What are products made from?" and have started conducting some scientific experiments to assess the quality of different products on the market, including the quality of paper towel brands in terms of their absorbency and their value for money. The children also began Wednesday afternoon activities last week with activities ranging from cooking to football! The children seem very enthusiastic and excited and are sure to learn new skills while having fun!
Weekly News: 19th — 23rd January
Unit of Inquiry
This week we will continue to look at different products and test them for their durability, quality and value for money. From our last unit of inquiry we know that companies need to sell quality products to keep their customers happy and to remain profitable. We will be investigating the kinds of tests some companies perform to ensure their products are safe and marketable. From our testing last week (which will continue this week) we now know that not all paper towel brands are as reliable and such good value for money as they claim to be!
MathematicsThe focus of our maths groups this week will again revolve around division concepts. Last week the children revised some of the mental and written strategies for division that were taught during Year 5 as well as concepts such as factors, multiples and products. They will continue to practise and refine their understanding of division strategies this week and apply them in their number work and problem solving. Our focus in homeroom maths this week is on measurement, particularly measuring the capacity of different objects and shapes as well as measuring area.
English
Reading and writing scientific lab reports is again the major focus of our language program this week. The children have already discovered the major features of writing a lab report, starting with an aim and hypothesis and ending with an evaluation and conclusion. The children will continue to work with this text type in class through a series of experiments. Reading groups this week will continue to focus on good reading and comprehension strategies, particularly those skills relating to critical thinking skills and analysing texts for bias and content.
What can I do to help?• Don’t forget to check the class blogs to find links to sites that will support your child in their class work. Look for the Testing, Testing 1,2,3 link in the Unit of Inquiry menu box to find great websites and information for you and your child.
• Use the class blogs as part of your child’s reading homework. There are many great links to interesting websites and articles on our Testing, Testing 1,2,3 page. Why not ask your child to read a particular article and report back to you the main facts from their reading!
Upcoming Events and Reminders:• SDIS is still looking for volunteer families to host visiting students from around the world during the Service Learning and Community and Service Conference between March 5-8. If you can help, please contact Callie Roth Welstead at c.welstead@dominics-int.org. Notes about this event were sent home last week if you require additional information.
• The second UOI reports were sent home last week. Could you please return the UOI reports to school as soon as possible (complete with your signature and any comments you have made). As you are no doubt aware this is one of the changes to our reporting procedures for 2008/09. We hope you find the new UOI report informative. Please feel free to contact your child’s teacher to discuss the rubric report as well as the Term 1 reports which were also sent home last week.
• Just a reminder that as of last week homework is being sent home every Monday and is due back on Friday. With regards to the spelling words can we please ask that parents assist us in ensuring that the children practise their spelling words each week. We will not be correcting the students spelling words during the week as this is the responsibility of the students (as the correct spelling of the words is already displayed on the homework sheet). A reminder too that homework that is not neatly presented will not be marked and corrected by the teacher. While teachers will do the utmost to have students complete their homework to a satisfactory standard, it is up to each student to be responsible to do this.
• Please ensure that your child is dressed appropriately for PE classes as they are currently training for the Cross Country Carnival later in the year. Don’t forget all students need a spare set of shoes, especially as the weather has been so unpredictable of late.
• Year 6G will be hosting this week’s assembly. All parents and family are invited to attend.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Reflections – 7th – 16th January
The children have made a great start to Term 2. We began work in class on answering our first teacher question for the unit, "What are products made from?" and have started conducting some scientific experiments to assess the quality of different products on the market, including the quality of paper towel brands in terms of their absorbency and their value for money. The children also began Wednesday afternoon activities last week with activities ranging from cooking to football! The children seem very enthusiastic and excited and are sure to learn new skills while having fun!
Weekly News: 19th — 23rd January
Unit of Inquiry
This week we will continue to look at different products and test them for their durability, quality and value for money. From our last unit of inquiry we know that companies need to sell quality products to keep their customers happy and to remain profitable. We will be investigating the kinds of tests some companies perform to ensure their products are safe and marketable. From our testing last week (which will continue this week) we now know that not all paper towel brands are as reliable and such good value for money as they claim to be!
MathematicsThe focus of our maths groups this week will again revolve around division concepts. Last week the children revised some of the mental and written strategies for division that were taught during Year 5 as well as concepts such as factors, multiples and products. They will continue to practise and refine their understanding of division strategies this week and apply them in their number work and problem solving. Our focus in homeroom maths this week is on measurement, particularly measuring the capacity of different objects and shapes as well as measuring area.
English
Reading and writing scientific lab reports is again the major focus of our language program this week. The children have already discovered the major features of writing a lab report, starting with an aim and hypothesis and ending with an evaluation and conclusion. The children will continue to work with this text type in class through a series of experiments. Reading groups this week will continue to focus on good reading and comprehension strategies, particularly those skills relating to critical thinking skills and analysing texts for bias and content.
What can I do to help?• Don’t forget to check the class blogs to find links to sites that will support your child in their class work. Look for the Testing, Testing 1,2,3 link in the Unit of Inquiry menu box to find great websites and information for you and your child.
• Use the class blogs as part of your child’s reading homework. There are many great links to interesting websites and articles on our Testing, Testing 1,2,3 page. Why not ask your child to read a particular article and report back to you the main facts from their reading!
Upcoming Events and Reminders:• SDIS is still looking for volunteer families to host visiting students from around the world during the Service Learning and Community and Service Conference between March 5-8. If you can help, please contact Callie Roth Welstead at c.welstead@dominics-int.org. Notes about this event were sent home last week if you require additional information.
• The second UOI reports were sent home last week. Could you please return the UOI reports to school as soon as possible (complete with your signature and any comments you have made). As you are no doubt aware this is one of the changes to our reporting procedures for 2008/09. We hope you find the new UOI report informative. Please feel free to contact your child’s teacher to discuss the rubric report as well as the Term 1 reports which were also sent home last week.
• Just a reminder that as of last week homework is being sent home every Monday and is due back on Friday. With regards to the spelling words can we please ask that parents assist us in ensuring that the children practise their spelling words each week. We will not be correcting the students spelling words during the week as this is the responsibility of the students (as the correct spelling of the words is already displayed on the homework sheet). A reminder too that homework that is not neatly presented will not be marked and corrected by the teacher. While teachers will do the utmost to have students complete their homework to a satisfactory standard, it is up to each student to be responsible to do this.
• Please ensure that your child is dressed appropriately for PE classes as they are currently training for the Cross Country Carnival later in the year. Don’t forget all students need a spare set of shoes, especially as the weather has been so unpredictable of late.
• Year 6G will be hosting this week’s assembly. All parents and family are invited to attend.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Friday, January 2, 2009
Welcome Back to the New Year
Welcome back to the new term. We hope you all had a well-deserved break and enjoyed the Christmas festivities and the New Year. We have some exciting plans for the start of the term including the new Unit of Inquiry where students will be testing the quality of commercial products to see if they are well made, safe and worth what we pay for them. Don't miss the link to the unit in the U.O.I section on the right. For selected student we also have the Junior School Production which will require a lot of energy, time and dedication. But we know it will be a valuable and enjoyable experience for those involved.
Reflections – 15th – 19th December
Students finished their Trade Fair. It was a great success and students were excited with how well they all did. Counting their profits at the end was a highlight, even if it wasn’t real money! Their final assessment rubrics will be sent home next week. Teachers received wonderful comments about the Year 6 choir at the end-of-year Christmas Concert. Well done year 6!
Weekly News: 7th – 16th December
Unit of Inquiry
This term we start the new Unit of Inquiry “Testing, Testing 1,2,3”. The assessment task for the unit will be to design a series of fair tests for an everyday product to show how and why companies test products before releasing them to the public. The test could be comparative to compare quality and cost of different brands. We will start the unit by discussing the qualities and other features of materials used to make most products.
Mathematics
This week students will start on division. We will revise the connection between division and multiplication and continue our practice of times tables.
English
This week students will be looking at the vocabulary which relates to the new unit and practise using the words to make sure they understand the meaning. The language focus for the unit will be the writing of procedural texts, ie, describing accurately a scientific testing procedure.In our reading groups we will be reading about and discussing materials used in making things we use everyday (plastic, metal, paper and glass). We will also be researching using the library computers.
What can I do to help?
Discuss with your child things that you have purchased that have not been of good quality. Have you ever had a product recalled because of a fault in the product.
Upcoming Events and Reminders:
• Due to technical problems reports could not be delivered during the holidays. Reports will be sent home this Friday.
• Junior School Production practice starts next week. Students will practise Tuesday and Thursday afternoons after school and Wednesday periods 7 and 8. More information will be available soon.
• Wednesday afternoon class activities start next week periods 7 and 8.
• PTA meeting January 13.
• Junior School Cross Country Friday January 30. All students need to bring a spare pair of runners in a plastic bag each PE day. The Cross Country track is very wet on after rain.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Reflections – 15th – 19th December
Students finished their Trade Fair. It was a great success and students were excited with how well they all did. Counting their profits at the end was a highlight, even if it wasn’t real money! Their final assessment rubrics will be sent home next week. Teachers received wonderful comments about the Year 6 choir at the end-of-year Christmas Concert. Well done year 6!
Weekly News: 7th – 16th December
Unit of Inquiry
This term we start the new Unit of Inquiry “Testing, Testing 1,2,3”. The assessment task for the unit will be to design a series of fair tests for an everyday product to show how and why companies test products before releasing them to the public. The test could be comparative to compare quality and cost of different brands. We will start the unit by discussing the qualities and other features of materials used to make most products.
Mathematics
This week students will start on division. We will revise the connection between division and multiplication and continue our practice of times tables.
English
This week students will be looking at the vocabulary which relates to the new unit and practise using the words to make sure they understand the meaning. The language focus for the unit will be the writing of procedural texts, ie, describing accurately a scientific testing procedure.In our reading groups we will be reading about and discussing materials used in making things we use everyday (plastic, metal, paper and glass). We will also be researching using the library computers.
What can I do to help?
Discuss with your child things that you have purchased that have not been of good quality. Have you ever had a product recalled because of a fault in the product.
Upcoming Events and Reminders:
• Due to technical problems reports could not be delivered during the holidays. Reports will be sent home this Friday.
• Junior School Production practice starts next week. Students will practise Tuesday and Thursday afternoons after school and Wednesday periods 7 and 8. More information will be available soon.
• Wednesday afternoon class activities start next week periods 7 and 8.
• PTA meeting January 13.
• Junior School Cross Country Friday January 30. All students need to bring a spare pair of runners in a plastic bag each PE day. The Cross Country track is very wet on after rain.
With thanks,
David Barrett, David Gocentas and Ms Isabel Costa Pereira
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)