YEAR 3Handbook

2018

An outline of Curriculum and Grade Expectations

YEAR 3 OVERVIEW 2018This is an outline of the educational experiences planned for Year 3 this year. Our units of work will take an integrated approach, with literacy and numeracy links across all Key Learning Areas.

GRADE EXPECTATIONSWe encourage Year 3 children to develop:

basic skills in numeracy and literacy at their individual ability level an interest in the society, culture and environment around them personal work habits and skills both in class work and homework personal independence by being organised for their school day including the delivery

of information to and from school independence in the care of personal property

ENGLISH The English syllabus has a strong focus on the appreciation and study of quality texts (books, screen, visual, films etc), thinking about how English changes according to audience, purpose and context. Students will learn how to use appropriate grammar, vocabulary, punctuation and spelling to respond to and compose a wide variety of spoken, written and multimodal texts.

Speaking and ListeningThe students will:

engage in activities that involve many structured speaking and listening situations participate in partner, small-group class discussions and presentations perform, giving consideration to voice, gesture and expression identify how language is used for different purposes e.g. to persuade an audience

Reading and ViewingThe students will:

read and respond to a wide range of written and visual literary and factual texts – including information and stories about other places, times and cultures

read fluently and with expression after preparation. use a variety of self-correction strategies to identify unknown words in more

complex texts e.g. sounding out, looking at words in context. develop their knowledge of syllables, word families and common prefixes and

suffixes, and identify and apply the Super Six Reading Comprehension Strategies identify how texts such as narratives and persuasive texts (expositions and

discussions), information reports, recounts and reviews are organised according to their purpose

distinguish between fact and opinion discuss the use of reported and quoted speech

SpellingWeekly word lists consist of Year 3 Core Spelling words, phonic word families and topic words related to themes being taught. These words will be covered in class lessons and revised in weekly homework and spelling activities.

Writing and RepresentingThe students will:

jointly construct and independently write a variety of texts with emphasis placed on persuasive texts, narratives, literary recounts and literary reviews

use their knowledge of nouns, verbs, adjectives and adverbs to improve their own writing. Common punctuation such as full stops, capital letters, question marks and commas will be used. Children will develop their knowledge of letter patterns and spelling rules to spell unknown words. They will learn how to write using NSW Foundation Style

identify ways their writing suits a targeted audience. They will learn how to research information using pro-formas

identify positive features of their writing and suggest ways to improve areas of weakness. They will explain spelling rules they have applied

Teaching of grammar, punctuation and vocabulary is integrated within other English activities.

MATHEMATICSThe Mathematics syllabus provides students with knowledge, skills and understanding in Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, and Statistics and Probability. The students will learn a range of strategies to make informed decisions and solve problems as an essential component of the student’s preparation for life. A focus of the NSW syllabus is for students to develop their problem-solving skills, mathematical reasoning and communication.

Number and Algebra Students count, order, read and record numbers of up to five digits. They use informal and formal mental and written strategies to solve addition and subtraction problems. Students use mental strategies to recall multiplication facts up to 10 × 10 and related division facts. They use informal written strategies for multiplication and division of two-digit numbers by one-digit numbers. Students represent, model and compare commonly used fraction. They also learn to model, compare and represent decimals of up to two decimal places. Students perform simple calculations with money and solve simple purchasing problems. They record, describe and complete number patterns and determine missing numbers in number sentences. Students recognise the properties of odd and even numbers.

Measurement and GeometryStudents estimate, measure, compare, convert and record length, area, volume, capacity and mass using formal units. They read and record time in hours and minutes, convert between units of time, and solve simple problems involving the duration of time. Students name, describe and sketch particular three-dimensional objects and two-dimensional shapes. They combine and split two-dimensional shapes to create other shapes. They compare angles using informal means and classify angles according to their size. Students use a grid-reference system to describe position, and compass points to give and follow directions. They make simple calculations using scales on maps and plans.

Statistics and ProbabilityStudents collect and organise data, and create and interpret tables and picture and column graphs. They list all possible outcomes of everyday events, and describe and compare chance events in social and experimental contexts.

MathleticsEach student in Year 3 will have access to Mathletics as part of the Year 3 homework program. Mathletics is fully aligned to the NSW Mathematics Syllabus and provides an engaging way for the students to revise mathematical concepts.

INTEGRATED UNITS – SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHYThe units of work are taught using an inquiry based learning model. The students will identify and research issues and questions to develop their knowledge or solutions. Inquiry-based learning includes problem-based learning and uses technology to make learning engaging.

Term One and Two – DiscoveriesStudents will:

research the exploration of Australian to the early settlement investigate the impact the arrival of the early settlers had on the Aboriginal people gather information and record data to classify and report on living things, including

Australian native animals explore botanic drawings and experiment with a variety of techniques and media to

draw Australian wildlife explore, experiment and observe materials in different states learn why, when conditions change, the state of matter changes

Excursions to The Rocks Area in central Sydney, Muogamurra Nature Reserve and Ray Park will support this unit.

Term Three – PerspectiveStudents will:

research the culture and beliefs of the Aboriginal people and present a project on the similarities and differences between one fo our near neighbors and Australia

investigate what causes night, day and shadows sketch and create art using light and shade

Term Four – IdentityStudents will:

identify the symbols, values and culture that make us Australian research Australian inventions create portraits of famous Australians

CREATIVE AND PRACTICAL ARTS In Music, children will explore the musical concepts (structure, tone colour, dynamics, pitch and duration) through a range of activities including singing, music and movement, learning an instrument or playing percussion, learning about musical notation, organising sound and developing an understanding of a range of musical styles. Students are assessed through a variety of assessments that are conducted primarily through observation and practical assessment. Students will also be given the opportunity to participate in various vocal, choral, instrumental and concert programs over the school year. Throughout the year students will enjoy visiting performances. Visual Arts, Dance and Drama activities will be linked to the integrated units and literature topics.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT / HEALTH / PHYSICAL EDUCATIONThe PE program aims to encourage each student to participate in regular physical activity.

In Terms 1 and 4, students will participate in PE lessons incorporating fitness and skill development focusing on catching and throwing, athletics, striking and ball games. Friday sports provide students with opportunities to implement these skills in a variety of games.

In Terms 2 and 3, the students will choose from a range of skills and sports at the YMCA.

Through PD, students will develop skills in making appropriate behaviour choices through: Term 1: Choice Theory Term 2: Safety Term 3: Child Protection Term 4: Drug Education

GENERAL INFORMATION

Absent notesIf your child is absent due to sickness or leave they are required to bring a note to the teacher as soon as they return to explain the absence as the teacher needs to record this information on the class roll. This is a legal requirement. Extended long absences of 9 days or more during the school term may need permission from the Deputy Principal.

Assessment Assessments are on-going throughout the year. A formal report is prepared twice a year.In May, Year 3 students will sit for the National Tests.This will be the sixth year of the National Assessment. These tests will take place on:

Tuesday 15th May – Language Conventions / Writing Wednesday 16th May – Reading Thursday 17th – May - Numeracy

Climbing EquipmentThis is to be used only with teacher supervision and is not to be used before or after school by any students or siblings. All children have been taught the rules for safety.

CommunicationPlease read the Newsletter and all notes carefully. To subscribe to the newsletter go to the school’s website at www.eppingwest-p.schools.nsw.edu.au Password is Aurora96! (case sensitive and requires the ! at the end). There is also an app to download for iPhones and Android. Return notes/money on the dates stated on the note, to the teacher or organising teacher. Money should come in an envelope clearly marked with the child’s name, class and purpose.

HatsAll children need to bring their hat to school every day. The school policy is ‘No Hat, No Play and sit in the shade.’

ICTComputers are integrated into class teaching and learning activities using i-pads, word-processing and educational software. Your child will also have a computer lesson each week.

In 2018 Epping West Public is beginng a new program. This is information about the ‘Bring your own device’, or (BYOD) program being introduced this year.

Epping West Public School is committed to providing innovative and flexible learningexperiences that are driven by purposeful integration and use of technology. The schoolis focused on preparing students for success by providing them with the skills, knowledgeand values necessary to step into the world that awaits them, to become life long learnersand be prepared to participate responsibly and successfully in a global society.Bring Your Own Device or BYOD is the educational approach allowing students to bringpersonally owned technology devices to the school to enhance their learning experiencesand educational use of technology.The implementation of the BYOD program:• Improves student learning and academic achievement• Facilitates a differentiated, problem-based learning environment demandinghigher-order thinking skills,• Enables faster more collaborative, inquiry-based learning,• Provides timely, more equitable access to a broader range of digital educationalresources.HomeworkHomework bridges the gap between learning at school and learning at home.A basic rule of homework is that it is appropriate for each student’s age and ability.

During the year the students will develop study skills, consolidate learning, responsibility and self-discipline through a homework program. Spelling and mathematics will be given on a weekly basis. The focus of homework for Year 3 is on consolidation of number facts, spelling rules, comprehension and grammar. Students are encouraged to read each night and talk about the text they read. Research projects will also be included at times throughout the year. Any uncompleted work at school may be sent home to be finished.

Homework procedures are outlined in the front of the homework book. The majority of this work is designed for the students to complete independently. Please assist your child to focus on his/her area of greatest need and discuss homework modifications with the teacher, if necessary.In semester 2, as part of the Year 3 homework program, the Year 3 students will be required to complete a weekly answer on the class blog as part of their homework. This is accessed through their DEC Email using their email and password. For the class blog and Mathletics, they will require access to the internet to complete tasks. If there are any difficulties with access or completion, please see your child’s teacher.

Lateness/Early LeaversParents please try to be on time. If your child arrives late, you must accompany your child to the school office to collect a partial absence slip, which you will then hand to the teacher as you take your child to class. If your child needs to leave school early, you must report to the office for a partial absence slip before collecting your child from the classroom. Ten minutes after the afternoon school bell, children who are still waiting for parents are taken to the office to ring the parents and wait to be collected. Epping West After School Care provides a service to mind your child after school if you are unable to pick up your child at bell-time. Arrangements must be made ahead of time directly with the coordinator, Mrs Kuti. A fee is charged for this service. If there are any changes of arrangements for pick-up of an afternoon, please inform your child and your class teacher to avoid any confusion.

Library Students will explore literature, authors and learn library procedures with the librarian in their library time. Students will need to have their library bag on their allocated library day so that they are able to regularly change their books. Please take care of all library books. Any lost or damaged books will have to be paid for.

Lunch Orders The Yummy Bears Kiosk/canteen uses an online ordering system called Flexi Schools. All orders can be done in advance and need to be received by 9am to ensure your child receives their lunch order. You may also order over the counter before school or use the express box. The menu can be located on the school website.Easy, Online Registration• Go to www.flexischools.com.au• Click REGISTER• Enter your email• You will be emailed a link to an online form - follow the link• Choose a username and password and complete the form• Add each student and their class• Top-up the account - VISA or Mastercard - preferredPlace lunch orders from your iPhone, iPad or mobile device!For help call 1300 361 769 and flexi schoolsMedicines/ Health Care PlansAll medicines must be delivered to the office – where written instructions must be provided. Medications must be labelled with the student’s name, dosage and administrating time and instructions. No child is permitted to administer medicines or have them in their bags. Please also advise the class teacher if medication needs to be administered and when.

Paint Shirts Please send in a paint shirt for your child. Long sleeves are preferable to ensure uniforms are completely covered.

Parent ParticipationOpportunities exist across the school year for parents to assist with activities such as excursions, the walkathon and a variety of other activities. Please refer to your class teacher for more information.

PhonesIf your child is bringing a mobile phone or another electronic device please ensure they hand it into the office at the start of the day and collect it at the end of day. These devices will be locked away securely during school hours.

Sick ChildrenIf your child is sick, it is always best to keep them at home to be monitored by you and not pass infections on to others. When your child is ready to return to school an absence note is required. If your child becomes sick during the school day they will be sent to the office and you will be contacted to collect your child as soon as possible.

EXTRA CURRICULA ACTIVITIES

ChoirAll students will participate in the Year 3 Choir. The Year 3 Choir meets weekly during class time. Year 3 students have the opportunity to audition for the The Year 3 Primary Proms Choir which performs in the Epping District Music Festival at the Sydney Town Hall later in the year. Tuition and practice will be held during a weekly lunchtime session. Some fees will apply.

DanceYear 3 students have the opportunity to audition for the Year 3 Dance Group. Tuition and practice will be held during a weekly lunchtime session. Tuition fees apply. This group will perform at the Granny Smith Concert and 3-6 end of year concert.

DramaYear 3 students will have the opportunity to audition for the Senior Drama Troupe (Years 3-6). Rehearsals will be held during a weekly lunchtime session.

Grade Activities

Activity Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday FridayLibrary 3N,3D,3G,

3/4C, 3LG, 3MMusic 3M, 3N, 3D, 3LG

Sport 3/4C,3D,3G, 3N, 3LG, 3M

Scripture 3/4C,3D,3G, 3N, 3LG, 3M

Choir 3C,3D,3G,3L, 3LG, 3M

Computer 3N, 3M, 3LG 3/4C, 3D, 3G,

Banking 3/4C,3D,3G,3N, 3LG, 3M

Homework Due

3/4C,3D,3G, 3N, 3LG, 3M

Finally, if you have any concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate to make an appointment to discuss them with your class teacher.

Class teachers, Year 3:3D - Mr Davies (Supervisor and Assistant Principal)3M - Mrs Germolus (Grade Coordinator)3/4C - Miss Condie 3G - Miss Goff3N - Miss Ng3LG - Mrs Lovell and Mrs Greehalgh

Specialist teachers, Year 3: Mrs Ryan (EALD)Mrs Morrison (library)Mrs Barton and Mrs Cosier (music) Miss Tsang (computers)

Parents can help their children by:- being positive about the new school and

new language. maintaining and valuing the first language reading to or with your child in English for a

short time each day. taking your child out to interesting places at

the weekend and talking in English for a little while about what you did.

helping your child prepare ‘news’ for school for their designated day.

joining a local sporting team or group. inviting an English-speaking friend home.

Prepare and plan special days-multicultural and harmony, Lunar New Year.

Monitor excursions across school- EAL/D groups are included where appropriate.

The EAL/D team provides support for students with English as an additional language, who need some English language assistance in order to cope with their school work. Inclusion in the program is based on need as assessed by the EAL/D staff.

New Arrival assessment for EAL/D support.

Ongoing assessment and reports for all targeted EAL/D students.

The EAL/D team support classroom teachers by working collaboratively and collegially in the delivery of lessons across all Key Learning Areas. They encourage Multicultural Learning through the Multicultural Public Speaking Competition held annually.

Prepare materials for teacher/student for in class and independent support

Teach and prepare for students- from survival English

Teach and prepare for withdrawal and in class support lessons for EAL/D students

Attend, plan and present EAL/D input to:- Parent meetings- Staff and grade meetings - EAL/D team meetings- Network meetings- Staff development sessions

New arrival surveys, Annual survey, New Arrival Supplementation applications and EAL/D progression.

EAL/D Maintain updates. Timetabling for EAL/D

support.

EAL/D TEACHERSKim Hudson, Janelle Ingham, Emma Rollason, Margaret Ryan, Liz Calf, Colleen Featherstone, Ai Vee Tan, Tracey Hutcheson and Jenny Song Janelle Ingham.