Year 6 - Mt Ridley
Our Year 6 students have made a positive start to their final year of Primary school. Given the fact that the last 2 years have been interrupted, we have been impressed at how easily our students have adjusted and settled into new classroom routines and expectations.
Our students are enjoying reading and completing activities on the class novel, Wonder. They have also started a new reading program called iPICK, where they choose a book to read daily for leisure. This program not only encourages reading; it also develops personal habits such as self-control and improved concentration. During this time, the students are required to remain focused on their book and ignore any distractions that may occur for a sustained period of up to 30 minutes. Students have also enjoyed learning about Natural Disasters in Humanities, Science and Technology as well as the combined lessons across the year level in Mathematics and English.
To enhance understanding about Natural Disasters, students spent a morning in the STEM Centre where they explored how scientific understanding has influenced how buildings are constructed. Their task was to design and build a solid structure and test its stability on different foundations, mimicking the effects of an earthquake. Throughout this process, they realised the importance of conducting fair tests in order to prove their hypothesis. Although it was challenging for some students, they enjoyed the activity and some of the structures they built showed their understanding of what is needed for a good foundation. The students also had the opportunity to closely view some of the equipment used in a Science Lab and wore lab coats and safety goggles.
The Years 3 - 6 House Swimming Carnival held in Week 1 provided students with an opportunity to let their colours shine and lead by example. Our School and House Captains all played important roles in supporting staff throughout the day and many students achieved personal success in the pool. House Captains organised the relay teams and ensured their designated spaces were neat and tidy. The School Captains thanked all of the Hume and Oak Park pool staff, parents and, in particular, Mrs Finn for organising and running the day.
We look forward to seeing all of our Year 6 students taking advantage of the opportunities that are presented to them throughout the year, not only in their learning but also outside of the classroom.
