Primary Years (3-4)

Growing Empowered Learners

Years 3 and 4 Curriculum

In Years 3 and 4, students build independence, deepen their understanding of key concepts, and develop the skills they need for future learning. Through a rich and engaging curriculum, students are encouraged to think critically, solve problems, collaborate with others, and make meaningful connections between their learning and the world around them.

Our learning programs balance strong foundations in literacy and numeracy with opportunities for creativity, inquiry, wellbeing, faith formation and hands-on experiences. Students are supported to grow academically, socially and emotionally within a welcoming and inclusive learning community.

A Learning Journey That Nurtures Growth

Our Year 3 and 4 students are encouraged to explore new ideas, embrace challenges and develop the skills they need for lifelong learning. Through engaging classroom experiences, specialist programs and a strong focus on wellbeing, students are supported to become confident learners, compassionate community members and active contributors to the world around them.

Our Curriculum

Explore the Year 3 and 4 curriculum at School of the Nativity, where students grow through engaging learning, creativity, wellbeing and hands-on experiences.

English
Students strengthen their reading, writing, spelling and communication skills through engaging and purposeful learning experiences.

Reading and Comprehension

Students develop reading fluency and comprehension through independent reading, class novels and guided reading experiences. They learn to analyse texts, make connections, and respond thoughtfully to what they read. Literacy Pro and SpellEx support personalised learning and skill development.

Writing and Language

Across the year, students explore a range of text types, including narrative and persuasive writing.

They learn how to:

Structure ideas effectively

Use descriptive language

Organise paragraphs

Apply correct punctuation

Communicate for different purposes and audiences.

Regular handwriting lessons help students refine letter formation and presentation skills.
Mathematics
Building Confidence Through Problem Solving
Our mathematics program develops strong number sense and encourages students to think strategically when solving problems.

Students explore:

Addition and subtraction with larger numbers

Place value and numerals

Multiplication and division strategies

Fractions and equivalent fractions

Number patterns and algebraic thinking

Mathematical reasoning and problem solving

Students use concrete materials, visual representations and real-world contexts to deepen understanding and explain their mathematical thinking with confidence.
Science
Exploring Life, Earth and Space

Science learning encourages students to ask questions, investigate ideas and develop an understanding of the natural world. Students explore:

Biological Sciences

Life cycles and growth

Plant development and sustainability

Connections between classroom learning and the Kitchen Garden program

Earth and Space Sciences

The relationship between the Sun, Earth and Moon

Day and night cycles

Seasonal patterns

Earth’s rotation and its effects

Through observation, experimentation and inquiry, students learn to think like scientists and discover how science influences everyday life.
Technologies

Creating, Designing and Innovating

Students develop digital literacy, computational thinking and problem-solving skills through engaging technology experiences.

Digital Technologies

Students learn programming and digital systems through platforms such as Scratch. They also participate in cybersafety learning that promotes safe and responsible online behaviours.

Design and Engineering

Using LEGO® SPIKE Education, students investigate energy, movement and engineering design. They test ideas, evaluate outcomes and refine solutions while developing creativity and critical thinking skills.
HASS
Understanding People, Places and History

Students investigate the world through studies of geography and history.

Learning experiences include:

Exploring Australia and neighbouring countries

Investigating diverse communities and contributions people make

Understanding connections to Country and Place

Learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives

Exploring significant symbols, celebrations and commemorations

Investigating the history and diversity of local communities

These studies help students develop curiosity, empathy and a deeper appreciation of Australia’s cultural heritage.
Religious Education
Religious Education helps students grow in faith, understanding and compassion.

Students explore:

Key events in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus

Holy Week and Easter traditions

Scripture and Gospel teachings

God’s love, forgiveness and presence in our lives

Ways to live with kindness, justice and respect

Learning encourages students to reflect on their own faith journey and their role within the wider community.

Health and Wellbeing
Safety, Emotions and Respectful Relationships

Student wellbeing is a valued part of the Years 3 and 4 learning experience.

Through Health and Positive Education programs, students learn to:

Recognise and manage emotions

Build positive relationships

Develop resilience and goal-setting skills

Understand personal safety and protective behaviours

Respect diversity and inclusion

Seek support when needed

These experiences help students build confidence, self-awareness and a strong sense of belonging.
Physical Education
Physical Education helps students develop confidence, coordination, teamwork and fundamental movement skills.

Students participate in a diverse range of sporting activities that develop teamwork, coordination, fitness and confidence.

Programs may include:

Track and field

Volleyball

Hockey

Gymnastics

Target games

Invasion games

Swimming

Specialist coaching opportunities through SAPSASA and SACPSSA statewide sporting competitions further enrich student learning.
Visual Arts

Students develop creativity and artistic skills through a variety of projects and mediums.

Learning includes self-portraiture, painting techniques and the exploration of Pop Art through bold colours, shapes and patterns. Students are encouraged to express ideas and reflect on their creative choices.
Performing Arts
Japanese

Japanese learning introduces students to languages and cultures beyond their own.

Students build their understanding of Japanese language and culture through speaking, listening, reading and writing activities. They learn basic language structures, explore hiragana and familiar kanji, and develop an appreciation for cultural traditions and communication practices.
Kitchen Garden
The Kitchen Garden program provides meaningful hands-on learning experiences that connect sustainability, science, nutrition and practical life skills.

Throughout the year, students:

Plant and care for the garden

Learn about plant growth and sustainability

Develop cooking skills

Prepare fresh produce

Explore healthy food choices

These experiences help students understand where food comes from while fostering responsibility and environmental awareness.

Primary Years (3-4)

Growing Empowered Learners

Years 3 and 4 Curriculum

A Learning Journey That Nurtures Growth

Our Curriculum

English

Mathematics

Science

Technologies

HASS

Religious Education

Health and Wellbeing

Physical Education

Visual Arts

Performing Arts

Japanese

Kitchen Garden

Year 3 – 4 Teachers

Katie Colbert

Leonie Ruddock

Rebecca Broad