An action packed Term 3 in the 1/2W classroom!

There has been so much learning, creativity and excitement happening, Term 3 is shaping up to be a wonderfully memorable and action-packed term in 1/2W!

In English, we have begun exploring persuasive texts and learning how writers use reasons, opinions and convincing language to influence an audience. The students have been discovering that a strong argument needs more than simply saying, “because I really want it!” Through The Writing Revolution approach, we are also strengthening sentence construction by using conjunctions such as because, but and so to explain our thinking more clearly. Last week there was a very lively discussion about how this newfound skill could be put to good use to create extraordinary letters for Santa. We look forward to students putting their persuasive skills to the test by explaining, justifying and perhaps very politely negotiating their way onto the nice list. We cannot wait to see their creativity, humour and emerging writer’s voice come to life.

In Mathematics, our learning has focused on 2D and 3D shapes. Students have been identifying, describing and sorting shapes by their features, including sides, corners, faces, edges and vertices. They have enjoyed hands-on activities using classroom materials to build, compare and explore shapes in real-life contexts. It has been wonderful to hear students using mathematical language with growing confidence as they explain what makes each shape unique.

Our HASS focus this term is continuity and change. We were delighted to welcome so many grandparents in Week 2, who joined us to share stories about their school days, favourite toys and experiences growing up in a world without portable technology. The students have been learning about how everyday appliances and technologies we often take for granted have evolved over time, and how these changes have shaped the way people live, learn and communicate. These conversations have helped students make meaningful connections between the past and present, while developing a deeper appreciation for the experiences of different generations.

Our Technologies learning is closely connected to our HASS focus on continuity and change. Students are exploring how toys have changed over time and are using this knowledge to design and make simple toys such as ball-and-cup games, spinning tops and other traditional play items. Through this hands-on learning, students are thinking like designers as they plan, create, test and improve their ideas, while also noticing that great entertainment did not always need batteries, screens or charging cables!

Preparations underway for our Grandparents Day performance. We have been enjoying our rehearsals with Marissa Ritorto (Flava Dance Studios), and I have been impressed by the students’ commitment, enthusiasm and growing confidence. It is wonderful to see them working together, learning the dance routines and encouraging one another. Their excitement is building, and we look forward to sharing this special celebration with our grandparents and families at the end of term.