Back in the swing of things

I had to do work for the Department of Education interviewing student teachers who were seeking employment with the Department, so my apologies for not attending Open Day yesterday.  It was booked in February so I didn't know the dates would clash.  I have a few more later in the term as well.

The standard of the Science projects brought in on Monday was outstanding.  Each students was allowed to speak about what they'd made, how they made it and what they enjoyed about the process or challenges they faced.  Thank you for supporting your child to do this.  All students spoke of enjoying the time they spent with you helping and supporting them, it was really nice to see.

A note went home today or yesterday (some other classes won't get theirs til Monday so don't worry if siblings didn't get it) about the NED show.  This is a fun and energetic performance put on by "The NED Show"  that combines a positive message with humour, storytelling and audience participation with the emphasis for us being on our core values, bullying and optimism.  There is no cost for the show and you only need to return a permission note if you DO NOT want your child to attend.  It will be a great show and Im sure everyone will attend.

The way they fund the show is by selling yo-yos (remember those?).  They do a few tricks with yo-yos as part of the show.  Starting Monday 11 August Mrs Graham will sell the yo-yos that you order via the order form on the note and the students will be allowed to play with them at lunchtime in the area outside the hall for the 2 weeks she will be selling them (if we have too many students we will look at another area!).  There are 3 different ones and cost $9, $15 or $20. I already told 3/4G they will have to do extra jobs around the house to earn some money if they would like to buy one...hope that helps!  IT IS NOT COMPULSORY TO BUY A YOYO!

We have been doing a lot of work on decimals at the moment, particularly the link between tenths and hundredths.  Soon we will be adding and subtracting them so you may like to quiz your child to check they can convert from tenths to hundredths quickly!

A note went home on Monday (in a BIG white envelope) seeking your permission for our students to participate in an online survey to help gather data which will be used as base line data for 2 different social skills programs.  We are very fortunate to be offered these programs, FREE of charge, but need to get at least 90% response to be eligible, so please send the forms back ASAP.  Mrs Bryan is offering Freddo Frogs as incentive ;-)

Remember to come see me or give me a ring if your child is having any difficulties with any aspect of school life.  It is my job, with you, to help them navigate the complex world of having to work with and next to 27 very different people, let alone all the other adults and changes that go on here all the time.  Some of them are looking a bit sleepy at the moment so if there is an opportunity for an early night, that may help them focus a bit more during the day.  Some are getting teary because they are having problems with friends or are finding the work hard.  This is the time to build their resilience and reassure them they are wonderful and can do things and that help is not too far away.

Term 3

It has been a long time between posts.  Taking leave and being sick has meant I haven't kept up with photographing class happenings and sharing information.

Here is the Week 3 homework

A great day was had by all at our excursion last week.  It was very warming to hear the children's disappointment at the graffiti on Lennox Bridge.  The beauty and history of this bridge is obvious and the fact that it is spoilt by some selfish people was a hot topic of discussion.

The children enjoyed drawing Victoria bridge and discussing what the bridge was made of and how important it was to the development of NSW.

Penrith Lakes Education Centre is always a fun place to visit.  The teachers there make sure we have fun and find lots of interesting things.  The mini beast that were found in the water were fascinating.  Everyone liked seeing them on the big screen microscope/ camera.  We learned that the lake is in good condition and our little creatures are doing a good job feeding our bigger creatures.

Keep an eye out for Science Fair projects.