It is with excitement (and a little regret) that I move on to Stage 2 (Year 3) for 2012. So for now, this blog will be taking a break.
I have started a NSW Stage 2 Resources, you may like to visit it here.
I have very much enjoyed working on this blog and hope it has assisted you in some small way.
Happy Holidays and all the best for 2012 and beyond!
Monday, December 26, 2011
Monday, December 12, 2011
Penguins
Here we are at the end of our unit! My students are currently making some Paper Mache Penguins, our room doesn't have an electronic whiteboard for the moment so we are back to printing out resources... feels a bit like the 1990s!
So here is a printable - a collection of Adelie Penguins so students may paint the markings onto their sculptures correctly.
Penguins
So here is a printable - a collection of Adelie Penguins so students may paint the markings onto their sculptures correctly.
Penguins
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Finding Antarctica: Mapping the Last Continent
In 2011 Australia celebrates 100 years of Australian expeditions to the Antarctic. The Australasian Antarctic Expedition (AAE), which departed from Hobart in December 1911 and was led by Sir Douglas Mawson, was the first Australian-led Antarctic expedition.
In celebration of this centenary, this exhibition will focus on the mapping of Antarctica from the 15th to the 21st century, from crude woodcut maps to the latest satellite imagery. The exhibition will tell the story of the gradual discovery, exploration and charting of this significant land mass.
The exhibition focuses on:
- Early trade and exploration
- Dutch supremacy
- French interests
- James Cook and closer inspection
The exhibition will showcase the magnificent collection of rare maps and charts held by the State Library, accompanied by rare published accounts and original sketches from Antarctica exploration by Cook, d'Urville, the United State Exploring Expeditions and the Australasian Antarctic Expedition.
The Library has an amazing collection of material on the Australasian Antarctic Expedition due to a number of significant acquisitions over the past 100 years. A substantial collection of the official papers of the Expedition team were also deposited with the State Government of New South Wales, in exchange for the State undertaking to publish the remaining records of the expedition team.The records were subsequently transferred to the State Library. A selection of this material will be in display as part of the exhibition.
There is a number of interesting presentations and talks (one on Mawson's forgotten men!), I might just have to attend!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Mawson's Hut & Travel Oz
Here are some great resources from the Australian TV travel show, Travel Oz. Each clip runs from 5-10min and is certainly appropriate for Stage 3 students. Enjoy!
Mawson's Hut
West of Mawson's Hut
The Restoration of Mawson's Hut
Hunting Antarctic Orcas
Emperor Penguins
Mertz Glacier
Macquarie Island
Humpback Whale Migration
Mawson's Hut
West of Mawson's Hut
The Restoration of Mawson's Hut
Hunting Antarctic Orcas
Emperor Penguins
Mertz Glacier
Macquarie Island
Humpback Whale Migration
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Bullying In Schools
Our school is currently reviewing its Anti-Bullying Policy.
Here are some resources I have been accessing while I have been reflecting upon survey data and Government recommendations for reviewing our policy:
Four Corners - The Bullies' Playground
This website also includes a link to an excellent resources page that lists current media reports relating to bullying along with background reading and services available to support.
Seaforth Public School is mentioned in the program as having developed an innovative Anti-Bullying policy, it can be found here.
The Cooling Conflicts program involves using drama techniques to examine identifiable of conflict and to offer participating students to deal with conflicty. It involves conflict management rather than conflict resolution. It is particularly effective in dealing with cross-cultural conflict.
Brainstorm Productions conduct dramatic presentations that address different types of bullying. Ideal as a launch or follow up to the introduction of school based strategies to reduce bullying.
Cybernetrix internet safety education resource, produced by the Australian government. Aimed at year 7 onwards, but as we know, issues around child internet usage and approaches are constantly changing and some of these activities may be applicable to Stage 3.
Bullying no way!
The NSW Boys and Girls Education Strategy.Friendly Schools evidence-based school resources and professional development.
Mind Matters dealing with bullying and harassment - a whole school approach. The booklet can be downloaded here.
Bullying and victimisation in schools: a restorative justice approach
Here are some resources I have been accessing while I have been reflecting upon survey data and Government recommendations for reviewing our policy:
Four Corners - The Bullies' Playground
This website also includes a link to an excellent resources page that lists current media reports relating to bullying along with background reading and services available to support.
Seaforth Public School is mentioned in the program as having developed an innovative Anti-Bullying policy, it can be found here.
The Cooling Conflicts program involves using drama techniques to examine identifiable of conflict and to offer participating students to deal with conflicty. It involves conflict management rather than conflict resolution. It is particularly effective in dealing with cross-cultural conflict.
Brainstorm Productions conduct dramatic presentations that address different types of bullying. Ideal as a launch or follow up to the introduction of school based strategies to reduce bullying.
Cybernetrix internet safety education resource, produced by the Australian government. Aimed at year 7 onwards, but as we know, issues around child internet usage and approaches are constantly changing and some of these activities may be applicable to Stage 3.
Bullying no way!
The NSW Boys and Girls Education Strategy.Friendly Schools evidence-based school resources and professional development.
Mind Matters dealing with bullying and harassment - a whole school approach. The booklet can be downloaded here.
Bullying and victimisation in schools: a restorative justice approach
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Food Webs
This week our class is being introduced to food webs, shortly we will be looking at food webs specifically in relation to Antarctica (our current unit of work).
Bill Nye - The Science Guy has a good introduction to foodwebs here (sorry, it wont let me embed) I'd definitely watch this first, it's lots of fun and very well made - first part runs for 8 minutes.
The second part has a good explanation of food webs and pyramids at about 7:50.
In part three there is a good summary that begins at around 2:20.
What is a food web
The Gould League has a simple online Antarctica food web activity here and another one here.
Some other cool food web games can be found here - this one is a little more difficult!
A food-web game not requiring a computer can be found here.
A fun music video about the food web - I dare you to try and sing along!
The Lyrics may look a little mis-spelled here but if you hit the 'view in full screen' button it all comes up perfectly:
Food Web - Lyrics
And a very funny clip about how we are all connected:
For Teachers: Here's a lesson plan about Antarctic Food Webs. There also appears to be alot of science-related Antarctica content on this website!
Bill Nye - The Science Guy has a good introduction to foodwebs here (sorry, it wont let me embed) I'd definitely watch this first, it's lots of fun and very well made - first part runs for 8 minutes.
The second part has a good explanation of food webs and pyramids at about 7:50.
In part three there is a good summary that begins at around 2:20.
What is a food web
The Gould League has a simple online Antarctica food web activity here and another one here.
Some other cool food web games can be found here - this one is a little more difficult!
A food-web game not requiring a computer can be found here.
A fun music video about the food web - I dare you to try and sing along!
The Lyrics may look a little mis-spelled here but if you hit the 'view in full screen' button it all comes up perfectly:
Food Web - Lyrics
And a very funny clip about how we are all connected:
For Teachers: Here's a lesson plan about Antarctic Food Webs. There also appears to be alot of science-related Antarctica content on this website!
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Poetry: The Ballad
Ballad - For Students
Undoubtedly the most famous Australian ballad it 'The Man from Snowy River' by Banjo Paterson.
From: http://www.underdown.org/poetry-formats.htm
The ballad stanza is also one of the most popular forms of poetry for children. A ballad stanza is a group of four lines. That group is called a stanza. The ballad stanza has a rhyme at the end of line number two and line number four.
The Bee Poem
A poem is a busy bee
Buzzing in your head.
His hive is full of hidden thoughts
Waiting to be said.
His honey comes from your ideas
That he makes into rhyme.
He flies around looking for
What goes on in your mind.
When it's time to let him out
To make some poetry,
He gathers up your secret thoughts
And then he sets them free.
Some good examples of ballads can be located here, and a creative 'how to' can be found here.
An example of a 7 Year old Poet Olivia Binfield reciting her poem is here.
Undoubtedly the most famous Australian ballad it 'The Man from Snowy River' by Banjo Paterson.
From: http://www.underdown.org/poetry-formats.htm
The ballad stanza is also one of the most popular forms of poetry for children. A ballad stanza is a group of four lines. That group is called a stanza. The ballad stanza has a rhyme at the end of line number two and line number four.
The Bee Poem
A poem is a busy bee
Buzzing in your head.
His hive is full of hidden thoughts
Waiting to be said.
His honey comes from your ideas
That he makes into rhyme.
He flies around looking for
What goes on in your mind.
When it's time to let him out
To make some poetry,
He gathers up your secret thoughts
And then he sets them free.
Some good examples of ballads can be located here, and a creative 'how to' can be found here.
An example of a 7 Year old Poet Olivia Binfield reciting her poem is here.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Transport in China
This week's class reading focuses on transport in China. This clip compliments the content of our reading. Very clearly presented and relevant!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Poetry: Week One
I'm starting a 5 week poetry unit tomorrow and I'm busy resourcing my lessons.
Mrs Smoke has a wonderful 'Making Teachers Nerdy' blog with a great page on all sorts of poetry links.
This week we will be focusing on writing an ode here are the steps!
- Select a subject to write about: person, place, or thing.
- Write phrases describing how your subject makes you feel and why you feel this way.
- Write many phrases telling unique qualities of your subject.
- Explain why your subject is important to you
Revise your lines following these steps:
- take away any lines that are too similar
- add more feeling to any meaningless lines
- pick a good opening line or sentence
- order the remaining lines into their best sequence
- select a good closing line that clearly expresses your feelings about the subject
- Rewrite your ode in a final draft and maybe even add an illustration.
This video may be a little difficult for year 5&6 students but is a good guide for the teacher.
How to Write an Ode -- powered by ehow
A fun story that is told using emoticons:
Mrs Smoke has a wonderful 'Making Teachers Nerdy' blog with a great page on all sorts of poetry links.
This week we will be focusing on writing an ode here are the steps!
- Select a subject to write about: person, place, or thing.
- Write phrases describing how your subject makes you feel and why you feel this way.
- Write many phrases telling unique qualities of your subject.
- Explain why your subject is important to you
Revise your lines following these steps:
- take away any lines that are too similar
- add more feeling to any meaningless lines
- pick a good opening line or sentence
- order the remaining lines into their best sequence
- select a good closing line that clearly expresses your feelings about the subject
- Rewrite your ode in a final draft and maybe even add an illustration.
This video may be a little difficult for year 5&6 students but is a good guide for the teacher.
How to Write an Ode -- powered by ehow
A fun story that is told using emoticons:
Friday, August 19, 2011
Scott's Antarctica
Shortly we will be moving on from 'Symbol Systems' and on to 'Antarctica.'
Today we briefly learned the story of Robert Falcon Scott's 2 expeditions to Antarctica.
Here is some extra information to support this lesson.
Listen to the story of Scott at NPR. On the same website is an excellent collection of images.
A dog called Chris listening to Scott's gramophone!
Some original newsreel footage of Scott's ships can be found here.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Primary Science: Micro-organisms
Today we undertook an experiment about yeast.
This website helps to support a student's understanding of micro-organisms.
Fun and interactive, it includes a game and quiz to test understanding.
This website helps to support a student's understanding of micro-organisms.
Fun and interactive, it includes a game and quiz to test understanding.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Introduction to Poetry
In Week 6 we wil be moving on from the discussion text type and into poetry.
Here are some clips recommended for discussion by 'the 'White ribbon' Poetry competition.
Domestic violence (unable to embed): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcodyFKKdVM&feature=related
Here are some clips recommended for discussion by 'the 'White ribbon' Poetry competition.
Domestic violence (unable to embed): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcodyFKKdVM&feature=related
Friday, August 12, 2011
Week 4: Comparing culture, customs and etiquette
This week we our reading task focuses upon the similarities and differences between China and Australia.
A good online resource to support the reading task can be found here.
In addition to this we have begun decorating our classroom with some Chinese paper Products from Sydney's China Town.
One of these items is the 'red envelope' that is used to give money at Weddings or on Chinese New year.
Here is some interesting information about Chinese weddings and traditions.
Here is some footage of a Chinese tea ceremony:
A good online resource to support the reading task can be found here.
In addition to this we have begun decorating our classroom with some Chinese paper Products from Sydney's China Town.
One of these items is the 'red envelope' that is used to give money at Weddings or on Chinese New year.
Here is some interesting information about Chinese weddings and traditions.
Here is some footage of a Chinese tea ceremony:
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Westfield Re-Branding
A few weeks back the signage on top of Sydney's Centrepoint Tower was replaced. Here is some great footage of the project in action!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Chinese Symbolic Objects
I found a helpful resource page today explaining the symbolic value of motifs on Chinese ceramics.
A fantastic classroom exercise on creating willow pattern plates can be found here.
The willow pattern story helps build background and content knowledge of this beautiful China.
A brief history of Willow Pattern China can be found here.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Art Auction: Stimulus
Our school holds an art auction every 2 years, and every class needs to 'complete a class canvas' to raise money for our school.
This time around I thought we would focus on the life and Art of famous Australian John Olsen. Together we will be studying Olsen's life, art and techniques, creating a class canvas inspired by his approach to artmaking.
A biography written by his son (and gallery owner) Tim Olsen can be found here.
They have even named a Melbourne hotel after him!
This time around I thought we would focus on the life and Art of famous Australian John Olsen. Together we will be studying Olsen's life, art and techniques, creating a class canvas inspired by his approach to artmaking.
A biography written by his son (and gallery owner) Tim Olsen can be found here.
They have even named a Melbourne hotel after him!
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Maths: To Infinity And Beyond
For the right type of student, this BBC documentary would be absolutely riveting! Includes fun snippets of very young students giving their thoughts on number.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Linkn to COGS - Symbols Systems
Nuwarra Public School has done an excellent job collating resources for Symbol Systems.
Enjoy!
http://www.nuwarra-p.schools.nsw.edu.au/sws/view/1495696.node
Enjoy!
http://www.nuwarra-p.schools.nsw.edu.au/sws/view/1495696.node
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
ABS Spotlight
A fun activity to do with the class or even set for homework!
It would have fit in beautifully with our Identity unit but would be good for a Maths lesson on data and statistics.
You can enter your own personal details to learn more about yourself in relation to Australia, and the world.
http://spotlight.abs.gov.au/Flash/
It would have fit in beautifully with our Identity unit but would be good for a Maths lesson on data and statistics.
You can enter your own personal details to learn more about yourself in relation to Australia, and the world.
http://spotlight.abs.gov.au/Flash/
Monday, July 25, 2011
Week 2 Reading Task - Modern China - City and Country
This week our reading task focuses on Mondern China - comparing and contrasting the Chinese city and country.
Of course some questions arose during class discussion, here are some links that may assist!
- Education in China - Facts and Figures
- School Life in China - a typical day in a Chinese School with extra links
- Rural School Life in China
- What exactly is a Water Buffalo?
A segment from the BBC Chinese Schools program:
Friday, July 22, 2011
Good Sportsmanship
Today it was the third day of rain in a row, so for the first time in 2.5 years I had to cancel school sport!
I wanted to find some good clips of what is good sportsmanship, so I can have them available for next time. Enjoy!
I wanted to find some good clips of what is good sportsmanship, so I can have them available for next time. Enjoy!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Text Type: Discussion
This term we will be focusing our writing unit on the text type of Discussion.
The Writing Fun website by Jenny Eather is an interactive writing help site that includes downloads to save for off-line use.
I will definitely be referring to it in class when explaining discussion to the class and undertaking some joint construction!
Here is a one page handout that could assist in a Text Types lesson:
Discussion Texts
I also found this rubric which is easily edited, making a good starting point for thoughts about marking:
The Writing Fun website by Jenny Eather is an interactive writing help site that includes downloads to save for off-line use.
I will definitely be referring to it in class when explaining discussion to the class and undertaking some joint construction!
Here is a one page handout that could assist in a Text Types lesson:
Discussion Texts
I also found this rubric which is easily edited, making a good starting point for thoughts about marking:
Introduction to Symbol Systems
This term our class will focus our study on Symbol Systems and use it as a theme and basis for our classwork and assessment.
Our class will learn that symbols can be personal, cultural and global. We use symbols to communicate in many ways including in Visual Arts and public speaking. We will examine the cultural diversity of countries in the Asia Pacific Region (mainly China) and will compare it to Australia.
We will learn about symbol systems used in Visual Arts and will respond to them by creating artwork for our upcoming art show. We will create:
- An individual artwork that will be used in a calendar
- A class canvas for auction
- A grade art installation that will focus on the theme of recycling.
We will also focus on Poetry and Public Speaking, focusing on the use of simile and metaphor to enhance our writing and speaking. This will culminate in a school Public Speaking competition at the end of Term 3.
Our class will learn that symbols can be personal, cultural and global. We use symbols to communicate in many ways including in Visual Arts and public speaking. We will examine the cultural diversity of countries in the Asia Pacific Region (mainly China) and will compare it to Australia.
We will learn about symbol systems used in Visual Arts and will respond to them by creating artwork for our upcoming art show. We will create:
- An individual artwork that will be used in a calendar
- A class canvas for auction
- A grade art installation that will focus on the theme of recycling.
We will also focus on Poetry and Public Speaking, focusing on the use of simile and metaphor to enhance our writing and speaking. This will culminate in a school Public Speaking competition at the end of Term 3.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Indoor games
I had this list of indoor games ready in case our group got stuck inside at camp. I didn't get the chance to use them, so here they are for future use.
Kids Games
Kids Games
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Moving into Symbol Systems
In Term 2 we will commence our COGS study on 'Symbol Systems' with a focus on China.
To gain an orientation to the topic here are a few interesting websites:
National Geographic Kids has a good overview of facts about China including, geography, nature, history, people and culture, government and economy; along with 'fast facts.'
It also includes a video of how development in Northern China is turning farmland into desert!
An excellent page of China Links suitable for Primary students is here.
To gain an orientation to the topic here are a few interesting websites:
National Geographic Kids has a good overview of facts about China including, geography, nature, history, people and culture, government and economy; along with 'fast facts.'
It also includes a video of how development in Northern China is turning farmland into desert!
An excellent page of China Links suitable for Primary students is here.
SMH Education Resources
The SMH Education resources webpage is a welcome opportunity to locate resources to add to a program or extend classroom activities.
NSW outcomes are addressed and specific units of work are catered for, across stages.
At this time, some units of work and activities have been developed around:
- Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds
- Our Changing Environment
- The Communication Revolution
- Living in the 21st Century
- Welcome to Australia
- Premier's Reading Challenge
There are also links to a 'Weekly Assignment,' 'Everyday Maths,' and an online, multiple choice 'News Quiz' based upon each week's Sun-Herald newspaper.
Would be an excellent suggestion to parents who are looking at locating extra work for their child - all activities are designed by local teachers.
NSW outcomes are addressed and specific units of work are catered for, across stages.
At this time, some units of work and activities have been developed around:
- Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds
- Our Changing Environment
- The Communication Revolution
- Living in the 21st Century
- Welcome to Australia
- Premier's Reading Challenge
There are also links to a 'Weekly Assignment,' 'Everyday Maths,' and an online, multiple choice 'News Quiz' based upon each week's Sun-Herald newspaper.
Would be an excellent suggestion to parents who are looking at locating extra work for their child - all activities are designed by local teachers.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Fights in Parliament
Not everywhere handles themselves well in Parliament, as seen around the world!
Week 8: Political Parties Performance Task
This week we are undertaking a consolidation task to end our unit on 'Making Informed Choices.'
We are undertaking a fun 'Political Parties Performance Task' that I adapted from a similar task aimed at American Students.
Political Parties Performance Task
Some students have started looking at 'Color Theory' to select an appropriate colour scheme for their political party. Some fantastic explanations are located here.
Our presentations are taking place on Friday, good luck everyone!
We are undertaking a fun 'Political Parties Performance Task' that I adapted from a similar task aimed at American Students.
Political Parties Performance Task
Some students have started looking at 'Color Theory' to select an appropriate colour scheme for their political party. Some fantastic explanations are located here.
Our presentations are taking place on Friday, good luck everyone!
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Other blogs: Government
From time to time I come across other brave teachers out there trying to give blogging a go to collect and organise lesson plans and resources.
Today I found the 'Educate for Change: DO IT!' Blog - there are over 20 (USA) Government lesson plans here they may easily be adapted for use in Australia.
I'm sure there are many more out there and I'll be adding to this post as it all happens.
Today I found the 'Educate for Change: DO IT!' Blog - there are over 20 (USA) Government lesson plans here they may easily be adapted for use in Australia.
I'm sure there are many more out there and I'll be adding to this post as it all happens.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Left vs Right
We are approaching the end of our unit of work government and I have found this excellent diagram explaining the meaning of the 'left and right sides' of politics. Click to enlarge.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
FAQs about Reporting Using Grades
The luxury of being 'kept on a stage' to teach for more than 2 years means you have a chance to revisit your forms of assessment and the way you report - with the intention of improving your comments and how they address the work you are doing in class.
I was hunting around the NSW Board of Studies and found this document that may assist teachers writing reports.
a_to_e_grading_faqs
I was hunting around the NSW Board of Studies and found this document that may assist teachers writing reports.
a_to_e_grading_faqs
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Electoral Divisions in Australia
Today we looked at current federal electorates in Australia.
We located our local electorate and had a general discussion about our the features of electorates and our leaders.
The up to date federal electorates and corresponding maps are listed here.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
New Student Portal
All students will soon have a new portal with updated features and functionality.
You can learn more here.
The log-in will be: http://student.det.nsw.edu.au,
You can learn more here.
The log-in will be: http://student.det.nsw.edu.au,
Monday, May 30, 2011
Australian Protest Songs
I thought it might be nice to finish our successful unit of work on 'Making Informed Choices' with a few protest songs.
Archie Roach - Took The Children Away
Midnight Oil - Beds Are Burning
Yothu Yindi - Jailbreak
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Protest Song Lyrics
Some information on Australian protest songs during war is here.
Archie Roach - Took The Children Away
Midnight Oil - Beds Are Burning
Yothu Yindi - Jailbreak
">
Protest Song Lyrics
Some information on Australian protest songs during war is here.
Week 6 Focus: Voting
This week we are looking at voting, elections, with a focus on the preferential system of voting used in Australia.
A good, short 1min clip on preferential voting in Australia:
2 rather basic (and sort of funny) videos produced by the Australian Greens for the 2007 election. It is good for students in that it visually explains how preferential voting works.
Of course the Australian Electoral Commission is the first place to look for information on voting in Australia.
An Australian Parliamentary Education Office Factsheet on Elections is here.
How to fill in an Upper House Ballot Paper - (Liberal)
The preferential vote as explained by... Christians! Well explained and easy to understand, supported by diagrams.
Enrol to Vote - Kevin Rudd 07 Ads
A man complains about the size of his Senate ballot paper but explains how to use it to vote.
Finally, A Federal Election 'megamix' of commercials from 1990 - very funny (and a good starting point for election issues.)
A good, short 1min clip on preferential voting in Australia:
2 rather basic (and sort of funny) videos produced by the Australian Greens for the 2007 election. It is good for students in that it visually explains how preferential voting works.
Of course the Australian Electoral Commission is the first place to look for information on voting in Australia.
An Australian Parliamentary Education Office Factsheet on Elections is here.
How to fill in an Upper House Ballot Paper - (Liberal)
The preferential vote as explained by... Christians! Well explained and easy to understand, supported by diagrams.
Enrol to Vote - Kevin Rudd 07 Ads
A man complains about the size of his Senate ballot paper but explains how to use it to vote.
Finally, A Federal Election 'megamix' of commercials from 1990 - very funny (and a good starting point for election issues.)
Reporting Run Sheet
Keeping my mind on top of where one is at with school reports is one of life's great challenges.
I developed this table to print out and assist me 'when I'm in the thick of it.'
Teachers - Enjoy!
Reporting Run Sheet[1]
I developed this table to print out and assist me 'when I'm in the thick of it.'
Teachers - Enjoy!
Reporting Run Sheet[1]
Thursday, May 26, 2011
National Sorry Day
Today we had a class visit where we discussed the Stolen Generation and the importance of 'Sorry Day' to Australians.
The original 'I have a dream' speech.
The original 'I have a dream' speech.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
How to use a Compass
We have been looking at Pie Graphs this week - it seems that most students could not use a compass properly! So together we constructed this procedure.
(Sorry about any poor formatting, it's just the tool I use to embed the document into the blog.)
Compass Scribd
(Sorry about any poor formatting, it's just the tool I use to embed the document into the blog.)
Compass Scribd
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Maths: Pie Charts
This week in Maths we are looking at Pie Charts.
A pie chart is a circular chart divided into sectors, each sector shows the relative size of each value.
There are many resources available, here is a website where you can create your own pie chart.
Links follow:
- A good explanation given in a narrative style is found here.
- An online lesson plan with links to resources.
- An interesting lesson starter comprised of an estimation question.
- A good downloadable worksheet with answers is located here.
On Tuesday we were looking at some more advanced calculations for Stage 3, and the BBC Bitesize Maths website has some good supporting activities.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Exam Technique
It's that time of the Semester where we undertake Reading Comprehension and Cloze exams. I normally take my students through this presentation once or twice as they approach their testing period, it helps them to understand there is more to doing an exam than just displaying their knowledge.
Exam Technique
Exam Technique
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Week 5 Focus: Levels of Government in Australia
This week we are focusing on the three levels of government in Australia.
The Parliamentary Education Office (PEO) has an excellent factsheet along with a quiz here. The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has a more comprehensive factsheet in easy to read language.
The PEO Assignment Assistant also has a page of links to relevant documents and media.
The Video 'What is Parliament' explains how Federal Parliament works in Australia.
The NT has an excellent printable class activity where students are asked to allocate tasks and responsibilities to the correct area of government.
This teachertube presentation summarises the levels of government in Australia very clearly:
Friday, May 20, 2011
Reporting
Twice a year NSW Primary School Teachers have the task of writing end of semester reports.
The time and brainpower this takes is generally underestimated - on one occasion I kept a log book to try and measure the time I spent writing reports. For me it generally takes 2 hours per student in total - just on 60 hours for a Primary School Class (and I once worked corporate, so I consider myself organised and computer literate!)
I'm always looking for new ways to write comments, and new stimulus to inspire my writing.
The Victorian Government has produced a website with report writing tips for Teachers.
The NSW Government has a less comprehensive guide and a 'comment starter' tool. (You may need to enter via the portal.)
Wish us all luck as we approach our reporting period!
The time and brainpower this takes is generally underestimated - on one occasion I kept a log book to try and measure the time I spent writing reports. For me it generally takes 2 hours per student in total - just on 60 hours for a Primary School Class (and I once worked corporate, so I consider myself organised and computer literate!)
I'm always looking for new ways to write comments, and new stimulus to inspire my writing.
The Victorian Government has produced a website with report writing tips for Teachers.
The NSW Government has a less comprehensive guide and a 'comment starter' tool. (You may need to enter via the portal.)
Wish us all luck as we approach our reporting period!
Debating Introduction
Every year when I introduce debating to my class I show them a presentation to assist their familiarity with the whole concept.
Debating Introduction
Debating Introduction
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Debating Warm Up Games
This term we have been forming class teams for our unit of work on debating.
Yesterday we played these games in class with our new Debating Groups and it was so much fun!
The focus of these activities is:
- Sharing teamwork
- Convincing an audience
Both are important elements of conductng a successful debate.
Debating Warm Up Games
Yesterday we played these games in class with our new Debating Groups and it was so much fun!
The focus of these activities is:
- Sharing teamwork
- Convincing an audience
Both are important elements of conductng a successful debate.
Debating Warm Up Games
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Monday, May 16, 2011
The 2011 NSW Premier's Debating Challenge
This year our school is staking part in the NSW Premier's Debating Challenge.
All information relating to the competition can be found here.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Week 4 Focus: The Events That Led to Federation
In Week 4 we are focusing on the events that led to Australian Federation.
To begin, the ABC has a website dedicated to the Centenary of Federation from 2001 which has all kinds of links dedicated to telling the story of Australian Federation. It also includes an excellent overview of Aboriginal perspectives and the journey towards reconciliation and the 1967 referendum.
The ABC's comprehensive explanation of the process of uniting the colonies, establishing the Australian nation:
2 x fantastic 2 minute presentations suited to upper Primary students:
This second presentation focuses a little more on the White Australia Policy and may need some further explaining.
Some important images from Federation:
An invitation to a celebration of the Australian Commonwealth in 1901 from The National Archives of Australia.
Image of the first Commonwealth Ministry from The National Archives of Australia.
Image of the ceremony of the opening of the first Commonwealth Parliament from the National Archives of Australia.
First Australian Prime Minister Edmund Barton's annontated copy of the constitution from 1891 - image from the National Archive of Australia.
An summary of events leading to Federation are found in this essay.
The Australian Government also has an excellent 'Federation: Fast Facts' web page, that includes a link to a Federation Timeline.
The Federation Pavillion is located in Sydney's Centennial Park - a walking distance from our school! You can see it here on this interactive map. The history and heritage of Centennial Park is discussed here. Photos of the Pavilion and a bit of information can be found here.
Finally, this is not exactly relating to Federation, but interesting to children is the 'Australia - A Federation in Stamps' clip.
To begin, the ABC has a website dedicated to the Centenary of Federation from 2001 which has all kinds of links dedicated to telling the story of Australian Federation. It also includes an excellent overview of Aboriginal perspectives and the journey towards reconciliation and the 1967 referendum.
The ABC's comprehensive explanation of the process of uniting the colonies, establishing the Australian nation:
2 x fantastic 2 minute presentations suited to upper Primary students:
This second presentation focuses a little more on the White Australia Policy and may need some further explaining.
Some important images from Federation:
An invitation to a celebration of the Australian Commonwealth in 1901 from The National Archives of Australia.
Image of the first Commonwealth Ministry from The National Archives of Australia.
Image of the ceremony of the opening of the first Commonwealth Parliament from the National Archives of Australia.
First Australian Prime Minister Edmund Barton's annontated copy of the constitution from 1891 - image from the National Archive of Australia.
An summary of events leading to Federation are found in this essay.
The Australian Government also has an excellent 'Federation: Fast Facts' web page, that includes a link to a Federation Timeline.
The Federation Pavillion is located in Sydney's Centennial Park - a walking distance from our school! You can see it here on this interactive map. The history and heritage of Centennial Park is discussed here. Photos of the Pavilion and a bit of information can be found here.
Finally, this is not exactly relating to Federation, but interesting to children is the 'Australia - A Federation in Stamps' clip.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Exhibition: From Little Things Big Things Grow
The Museum of Sydney just finished presenting an exhibition called 'From Little Things Big Things Grow.'
This exhibition told the story of a group of Australians, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, who said 'That's not good enough' – and did something about it. The exhibition tells some uncomfortable truths and celebrates some 'ordinary extraordinary' heroes.
I attended the exhibition on the final weekend of showing and was so glad I did - there was so much information availble about the history of voting and citizenship rights for Aboriginal people in Australia.
Here are some photos from my visit!
Please note, if you would like to read the text just double click on each photo and a larger image will appear.
Perhaps you would like to sue this information in the Week 4 component of your Homework Assignment...
The entry to the exhibition:
The explanation at the beginning of the exhibition:
An image of protest:
The 1940s:
The 1950s:
The 1960s:
A voting booth from the time of the referendum:
The Aboriginal tent embassy:
The Freedom Ride:
Aboriginal Citizens called their citizenship papers 'dog tags':
Some information on citizenship:
Blog Ed
I suppose I'm walking a little on the dark side by not using NSW Department of Education IT resources.
Here is a link to a tour of the blog they'd like me to use in the classroom - which I will, one day soon.
Here is a link to a tour of the blog they'd like me to use in the classroom - which I will, one day soon.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Becoming an Australian Citizen
The Australian Government - Department of Immigration and Citizenship website has a fun 'Citizenship Ceremony' roleplay on their 'Resources for Schools' webpage.
My class is thinking of using this role play at our next assembly presentation!
Steam Heat Dance
We have a Performance Dance Group in Stage 3 and we are learning a Dance to a song called 'Steam Heat.'
The original footage is below:
The track only:
01 Steam Heat by miffymoo
Here is the information on the costume:
Steam Heat Costume Scribd
Practice is on Mondays Lunch One - after eating time. See you at the hall!
The original footage is below:
The track only:
01 Steam Heat by miffymoo
Here is the information on the costume:
Steam Heat Costume Scribd
Practice is on Mondays Lunch One - after eating time. See you at the hall!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Week 3 Focus: Democracy in Australia
This week our Stage focus is the 'Development of Democracy in Australia,' and the key participants in the process such as Sir Henry Parkes, Edmund Barton and Alfred Deakin.
This comprehensive timeline documents the development of democracy in Australia.
The Parliament of NSW has a more child-friendly timeline and explanation of the events that contributed to federation, as well as an explanation on 'Federation and the Parliament of NSW.'
The National Museum of Australia has a 'Life at the time of Federation' Curriculum materials that are fully downloadable from their website.
This unit of work encourages students to investigate what life was like in Australia at the time of Federation through an examination of a 'time capsule' containing seven key objects used at the time of Federation. Students explore the meaning of these objects to reveal their role in our national identity and their importance in the Federation process.
The Australian Constitution is explained by the Parliamentary Education Office here.
A copy of the Australian Constitution is available here.
The 'Discovering Democracy' website has an amazing array of downloadable material and worksheets appropriate for upper primary students. They are also directly linked to NSW Outcomes. Now I need to go back to school and see if we have the 'video' ;) Can't wait until these websites are all updated with downloadable media.
Here are also some ESL Links that might be worth exploring.
A continent for Federation:
In Search of Democracy - Federation:
Presentation summarising the life and achievements of Sir Henry Parkes:
Actual footage of Australia's Federation Ceremony (silent):
This comprehensive timeline documents the development of democracy in Australia.
The Parliament of NSW has a more child-friendly timeline and explanation of the events that contributed to federation, as well as an explanation on 'Federation and the Parliament of NSW.'
The National Museum of Australia has a 'Life at the time of Federation' Curriculum materials that are fully downloadable from their website.
This unit of work encourages students to investigate what life was like in Australia at the time of Federation through an examination of a 'time capsule' containing seven key objects used at the time of Federation. Students explore the meaning of these objects to reveal their role in our national identity and their importance in the Federation process.
The Australian Constitution is explained by the Parliamentary Education Office here.
A copy of the Australian Constitution is available here.
The 'Discovering Democracy' website has an amazing array of downloadable material and worksheets appropriate for upper primary students. They are also directly linked to NSW Outcomes. Now I need to go back to school and see if we have the 'video' ;) Can't wait until these websites are all updated with downloadable media.
Here are also some ESL Links that might be worth exploring.
A continent for Federation:
In Search of Democracy - Federation:
Presentation summarising the life and achievements of Sir Henry Parkes:
Actual footage of Australia's Federation Ceremony (silent):
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Hungry Beast
ABC's Hungry Beast had a humorous story about 'Third World Monuments' last night. It compliments our homework study of Totalitarianism and Dictatorships really well!
I apolgise for the size of the viewer, the ABC will not let me choose my embed size.
And earlier, a story on North Korean Dictator Kim Jong Il
I apolgise for the size of the viewer, the ABC will not let me choose my embed size.
And earlier, a story on North Korean Dictator Kim Jong Il
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Child Protection
Child Protection is an important Unit of Work in Stage 3.
It contains three themes:
- Recognising Abuse
- Power in Relationships
- Protective Strategies
The documents assist Teachers in implementing child protection education within the framework of the NSW Board of Studies, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) Years K-6 syllabus.
It provides curriculum materials to assist in developing student knowledge and understanding about child protection issues and skills in protective behaviours. It also supports teachers in the delivery of child protection education by discussing key concepts in child protection education, teaching strategies, community involvement and dealing with sensitive issues.
The curriculum support website containing all materials is here:
http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/primary/pdhpe/safe/cpe.htm
My presentation on 'Recognising Abuse' is available here, although it is locked by a password.
Same goes for the support material located here.
It contains three themes:
- Recognising Abuse
- Power in Relationships
- Protective Strategies
The documents assist Teachers in implementing child protection education within the framework of the NSW Board of Studies, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) Years K-6 syllabus.
It provides curriculum materials to assist in developing student knowledge and understanding about child protection issues and skills in protective behaviours. It also supports teachers in the delivery of child protection education by discussing key concepts in child protection education, teaching strategies, community involvement and dealing with sensitive issues.
The curriculum support website containing all materials is here:
http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/primary/pdhpe/safe/cpe.htm
My presentation on 'Recognising Abuse' is available here, although it is locked by a password.
Same goes for the support material located here.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
CAPA Groups: Creative Dance
We run Creative and Performing Arts performance groups weekly for approximately 40 minutes, rotating groups about once a term.
This year I am delivering Stage 3 Creative Dance while other Teachers on my stage teach Music, Drama, and Computer Art.
The NSW Department of Education has created this Dance Resource Page for Stage 3, it includes suggested programming, scope and sequences and units of work.
Stage 3 Curriculum Support for Dance is here, and there is a page dedicated to Units of Work.
This term I will be delivering the 'Dance Solutions' Unit of Work.
Stage 3 Dance Program
I was really lucky to finally get my hands on the 'Quantum Leaps' music CD today and thought I would see if I could upload the audio files to this blog, so they would never be lost again, here goes!
01 DET Quantum LeapsTrack 01 by miffymoo
02 DET Quantum Leaps Track 02 by miffymoo
03 DET Quantum Leaps Track 03 by miffymoo
04 DET Quantum Leaps Track 04 by miffymoo
05 DET Quantum LeapsTrack 05 by miffymoo
06 DET Quantum Leaps Track 06 by miffymoo
07 DET Quantum Leaps Track 07 by miffymoo
08 DET Quantum Leaps Track 08 by miffymoo
09 DET Quantum Leaps Track 09 by miffymoo
LESSON TWO
In this lesson there is a focus on Busby Berkeley's Dance Formations.
Extension - Examine the form of an icosahedron.
Rudolf Van Laban experimented with movement using all the possible directions indicated by the planes of this form. Create a short gestural sequence that explores these directions.
This year I am delivering Stage 3 Creative Dance while other Teachers on my stage teach Music, Drama, and Computer Art.
The NSW Department of Education has created this Dance Resource Page for Stage 3, it includes suggested programming, scope and sequences and units of work.
Stage 3 Curriculum Support for Dance is here, and there is a page dedicated to Units of Work.
This term I will be delivering the 'Dance Solutions' Unit of Work.
Stage 3 Dance Program
I was really lucky to finally get my hands on the 'Quantum Leaps' music CD today and thought I would see if I could upload the audio files to this blog, so they would never be lost again, here goes!
01 DET Quantum LeapsTrack 01 by miffymoo
02 DET Quantum Leaps Track 02 by miffymoo
03 DET Quantum Leaps Track 03 by miffymoo
04 DET Quantum Leaps Track 04 by miffymoo
05 DET Quantum LeapsTrack 05 by miffymoo
06 DET Quantum Leaps Track 06 by miffymoo
07 DET Quantum Leaps Track 07 by miffymoo
08 DET Quantum Leaps Track 08 by miffymoo
09 DET Quantum Leaps Track 09 by miffymoo
LESSON TWO
In this lesson there is a focus on Busby Berkeley's Dance Formations.
Extension - Examine the form of an icosahedron.
Rudolf Van Laban experimented with movement using all the possible directions indicated by the planes of this form. Create a short gestural sequence that explores these directions.
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