Literacy Groups Fun

Here in 5/6CF Literacy groups, we are discovering some fun (and very effective) ways of improving our reading.  Sometimes when we read aloud, it is expressionless and halting and sometimes we make mistakes that we don't even notice!

Did you know, that reading fluently with expression helps us to understand the text better? 

Imagine how the author wants us to read their story.   Think about the way they want their characters to come across.



We have been using ipads in the classroom to help our reading by recording ourselves reading different versions of a story.  The improvements in fluency have been amazing!!

We have discovered:
* Perhaps we can present a character different ways just by the expression we use.
* It's amazing how we don't notice the mistakes we make until we actually hear ourselves!
* That punctuation isn't the only way to break a sentence up. Phrased reading helps us understand what we are reading.
* Confidence in knowing that we are not going to sound silly practising our reading in front of others.




Now, you tell me....what book would you like to record using the ipad??

What I Have To Be Thankful For!

Recently in class, we have been discussing the things in our lives we have to be thankful for.  You were all set a challenge to come up with a new thing every day for which you are thankful.  Sometimes, when you're having a bad day, it's easy to think that our lives are all bad.  But, once we start listing all the positive things we are surrounded by, it helps us to re-set our focus.

Your new challenge is to share one of these things each week with Mrs Fredericks, Mrs Camilleri and the rest of the class.  If you want to, you can even post a picture of the thing you are thankful for. We can't wait to hear from all of you!

OUR CANBERRA EXCURSION!

We had the most wonderful time in Canberra-what a great couple of days!  We kept pretty busy visiting FOUR locations on our first day there.
First up, the National Museum, where we discovered an interesting map of Australia:

Next, Screensound, where we learned about the interesting history of Australian film and sound recordings...we were amazed at how many movies and TV shows Australia has actually made!


We got to draw a cartoon sequence and spin it to animate it.

Afterwards, came the War Memorial.  This was a bit more of a solemn time as we learned about the world wars and got to watch some amazing audio-visual presentations.  Some would say a bit too life-like for comfort!  I am so proud of the way you conducted yourselves 5/6CF, and it was wonderful to see everyone honouring those who have sacrificed for our country.



Then, finally it was off to Questacon for Year 5 and the Australian Electoral Commision for Year 6.  This was great, as we got to put into action all our learning about Democracy and got to do a hands-on vote for the best fruit.  Congratulations apple, you are officially the most popular fruit in Australia (well, according to Year 6!)

Counting the votes

 Well, finally it was time for some dinner and we were all starving.  After eating our fair share of dinner, everyone went straight off to bed and had a wonderful night's sleep. ;) If only!

The next day, Year 6 went to Questacon and had a great time while Year 5 went to the AEC:



Laura and Steph casting their secret ballot for favourite fruit

Afterwards, Year 5 went to Old Parliament House where we actually got to sit in the House of Representatives chamber on the actual seats the Members sat on.  Some people dressed up as some of the Speakers from previous years.


Then it was on to Parliament House where both grades got to do a terrific role-play of passing a bill through the House of Representatives, and finally, a tour of the actual House of Representatives and the Senate:



Excited to be at the place we've been learning about ALL term! 



Year 5 in the House of Representatives

Year 5 even had time for a visit to the roof to see the very impressive flag and the amazing view.

Well, a wonderful time was had by all and there were quite a few sleepy heads drooping on the way back.  Still, the thought of a McDonalds dinner kept many awake and was voted the most exciting part of the excursion by several!

We finally arrived home very tired but happy to have had a wonderful excursion.  Well done to everyone for your fantatsic behaviour and enthusiasm!  We'll always remember this as a great excursion!

Tell Mrs Fredericks what your favourite part of the camp was!!

BIBLICAL CHARACTERS

So far we have gotten to know Daniel, Ezekiel and Esther - all amazing followers of God. Next we will meet Ezra and Nehemiah. Share what you know about these servants of God.

Ezra

Nehemiah

DRAMATIC POSES

The Product of some Reader's Theatre we have been doing as part of our Drama program.



Skye, Louise and Amy ask their "parents", Keren and Tara for a beary unusual pet.



Liesey, Abby and Gracie also ask their "parents", Georgia and Minette for a beary unusual pet.



Stephi and Laura created their own play about frienship.



Pirates play by Kiarny, Layden, Kyle, Nick, Jye, Daniel and Julien



Pirates play from Michael, Alec, Rico and Gideon







Australian Government

Last week, we acted out the passing of a bill through Parliament.  Here are some photos of our class in action.  We debated whether Australia should increase its foreign aid by one billion dollars.  Students took turns at different roles, such as the Speaker, Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition and Government and Shadow Ministers. 
The bill did not pass with the overwhelming majority of 'Ministers' arguing that the extra money should be used for building up the Australian economy.
I was amazed at the thought you all put into your responses - great job everyone!




'Shadow Ministers' make their case to the Speaker against increasing foreign aid

 

'Parliament' listens as the Speaker keeps order

Can you think of a law you would like created or changed?

Post your comments and let me know!

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