We have been continuing our unit on measurement to look at mass and volume. We learnt new words like ‘hefting’ which is an informal way of measuring by juggling an object in each hand to figure out which object is heavier. We checked these measurements of mass by using scales and consolidated learning though independent tasks. We moved on to begin looking at volume where students predicted how much water would fit in various containers and then checked their measurements by filling the containers outside.

In the grade three classroom, we have been focusing on working independently and showing initiative. This is in the Australian Curriculum as a general capability which means a skill that students learn across subject areas. We have been discussing what it means to work independently - to show resilience and give it a red hot go by ourselves before asking for help. We also discussed what it means to show initiative which is to move on to another activity when the task set by the teacher is completed. This gives students a sense of agency in their learning to be able to choose what activity they would like to do after their task is completed without interrupting the teacher. The activities they choose have been negotiated with the teacher to ensure it is complimenting their learning time and not disrupting the learning of other students.

On Friday we celebrated Harmony Day in our classrooms with some activities that allowed us to reflect on the different cultures and beliefs that make up our world. It was amazing to see the diversity that can be found even in the one activities like making the masks -  the students took the idea and ran with it in different and wonderful directions.

Our attendance for the last fortnight has steadily been declining but in the current climate, that is to be expected. Last week in particular, we had 12 students at school everyday with many students at home recovering from cold and flus. Please continue to let the office know if your child is sick.

Just a quick reminder to sign in to Seesaw if you have not already. Please check your emails for the sign in link which is to be used for immediate family members only. With the absence of parent teacher interviews, it can be one way families can keep up to date of the learning in the classroom. For any questions or concerns you have about your child, please email me. Children might sometimes only confide in family members and I could be unaware of the issue.