In Class 4 the children were busy in the September holidays making their animal dioramas.  The making of their chosen animal and its habitat was one of the tasks from their human and animal main lesson.  The students chose an animal to research and then make their diorama.  It was wonderful to begin the term to view their outstanding work but also to hear their very informative oral presentations, which, were enjoyed by their Class 4 and 5 peers.  Congratulations Class 4.

This week Class 4 will complete their third and final fractions main lesson.  The children have spent the last two weeks reviewing the addition and subtraction of fractions, and reciprocal, improper and equivalent fractions.  At present we are concentrating on the multiplication and division of fractions.

Why so many fractions in Class 4?

Fractions do make up three quarters of the mathematics curriculum in Class 4.  Fractions exist in our everyday life.  We share by giving half of something to a friend; we use fractions in measuring whilst cooking, and the fractions of time in music notation.  By Class 4 the children have developed an initial sense for fractions, but now we begin to understand their meaning.

Fractions are arguably one of the most complex mathematical concepts that are brought to primary aged children.  This is why we work with many different kinds of manipulatives with lots of variation as well as repetition.  Class 4 is a time when children naturally begin to differentiate.  Differentiation is important to the development of the Class 4 and 5 student as they begin to understand the world around them.  They note the differences and likeness of their surroundings, community and even themselves.  We are all part of a whole – their whole family, class, school community, team and world with each child bringing their own individualism.

Class 5 have continued on with their Greek Mythology main lesson after successfully competing at the Greek Olympics in Week 9 of last term.  A Greek feast and a visit to the Greek Exhibit at the Perth museum made for a wonderful camp.

During class the children have been introduced to the wonderful Gods of Olympia and the many myths and stories that entertain them.  This week we will venture into Troy and learn about the Trojan War.

Last term the children in Class 4/5 spent time learning about different poetry writing techniques.  View their published poems here on the Red Room Poetry Website.  Just search for Golden Hill Steiner School and you will be able to read our classes ’Nature Poems’.

Thank you so much for submitting your students’ or childrens’ poems to the POEM FOREST Prize!  Their entries have helped to plant a native tree in the POEM FOREST at The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan and are now published on the Red Room Poetry website - just search for your school name!

Robyn