In Class 4 and 5 we have begun our geographical main lesson study of Western Australia.  A few mapping exercises and fun facts to begin have seen us look closely at the many different regions of Western Australia.  We have looked at the vastness of our state being the second largest state in any country, second to Russia.  As a class we have discussed the changes in climate, rainfall and vegetation.  Through story and a little homegrown prose the children have listened to the story of Winston the Wolfhound from South Australia and his adventures exploring Western Australia.  The children are deep in creating a wonderful fictional adventure story of their own.

Alongside our Australian main lesson theme, Australian poets have introduced the children to some wonderful ballads and poems.  As a class we have chosen the Geebung Polo Club, by Banjo Patterson to recite and enjoy.  In music we have a trio of Australian ballads to learn on recorder and our rendition of ‘Bound for South Australia’, is coming along nicely.

At present, time is certainly flying in class as we try to complete and cover our entire rich curriculum before moving into the following year.  We are still completing our Greek mythology puzzle when we have a moment and have enjoyed the wonderful tales by one of our favourite authors Roald Dahl.  Through reading his autobiography written for children titled, ‘Boy’ and his second book ‘Solo’, we are creating our own autobiographies.  The children are very much immersed in writing at present and when listening to Roald Dahl its hard not to be inspired.

In numeracy we are working hard to improve our arithmetic skills both for accuracy and speed and each week we are completing a lateral thinking numeracy puzzle.  These are proving challenging but lots of fun!

Handwork is also a popular focus in class.  Class 5 are working towards completing their knitted beanies using 5 needles.

Class 4 are working on their cross-stitch creations.  This week in support of the community group, Denmark Free Plastic we are creating embroidered squares in which to make bunting.  This will replace the plastic Christmas decorations which usually adorn our town.  Each class will make a set of bunting and we are all grateful for Jewels who has cut the material, ironed on facing and has brought her embroidery knowledge to share.  The children had a wonderful afternoon stitching and knowing they are contributing to our community and the reduction of plastic use.