Year 4 Handbook

2018

An outline of Curriculum and Grade Expectations

YEAR OVERVIEW 2018This is an outline of the educational experiences planned for Year 4 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 4 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 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 ListeningStudents:

engage in a variety of structured speaking situations participate in partner, group and class discussion on a variety of less familiar topics,

acting as a reporter to summarise main ideas listen critically to spoken texts, assume the role of a character in narratives, use group

discussion skills and use a range of skills to enhance presentations recognise how spoken texts vary according to audiences, language features vary

according to context and purpose and recognise the difference between figurative and literal language

develop criteria to assess oral presentations and develop self-assessment skills

Reading and ViewingStudents:

read and view a variety of literary and factual texts including Australian literature and stories and information from other cultures and times

justify inferences made about a text read or viewed use the Super Six comprehension strategies to comprehend texts use a range of self-correction strategies and read texts aloud using pitch, pause and

emphasis use a variety of graphological and phonological strategies to work out unknown words learn strategies, such as predicting, monitoring, making connections and questioning

to improve their comprehension skim to find key words and take notes and scan using headings to locate information differentiate between writing styles e.g. objective or subjective language form opinions about texts and recognise the purpose of a variety of texts identify grammatical features in texts, use word identification strategies, e.g. base

words, and discuss how punctuation organises texts into meaningful segments recognise and interpret different forms of visual information e.g. maps, diagrams,

videos, cartoons, posters.

SpellingWeekly word lists consist of Year 4 Core Spelling words, phonic word families and topic words related to a context or themes being taught. These words will be covered in class lessons and revised in weekly homework and spelling activities.

Writing and RepresentingStudents:

jointly and independently construct a range of texts for different audiences and purposes including imaginative, informative and persuasive texts

write about familiar and researched topics write well-formed sentences using grammatical features appropriate to the purpose of

the text develop a repertoire of different topics and learn research skills to build knowledge

about a topic identify each stage in their writing, identify grammatical features that they have used

to achieve their purpose and use punctuation to contribute to meaning e.g. dashes, commas and exclamation marks etc.

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 student’s preparation for life. A focus of the new 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 fractions, and 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 4 will have access to Mathletics as part of the Year 4 homework program. Mathletics is fully aligned to the NSW Mathematics Syllabus and provides an engaging way for the students to revise mathematical concepts and receive instant feedback and help in each activity.

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 – Products and ProductionStudents will:

investigate the relationship between needs, wants, goods and services. They will also evaluate the worth of goods and services

conduct investigations to select materials for various uses based on its properties

An excursion to Tobruk Farm will support this unit.

Term Two – Time and ChangeStudents will:

research the history of the local area – mapping skills and strategies of identifying specific landmarks will be developed

investigate, identify and evaluate changes in the local area investigate the best conditions to grow plants research biodiversity and ecosystems

Term Three – ‘The Great Escape’Students will:

research and describe significant sites in Australia map Australia in relation to its position in the world map key features and landmarks within Australia use computer technology to develop building designs for commercial and

domestic purposes

An excursion to The Botanical Gardens and NSW Art Gallery are planned to enhance the student’s understanding of the local urban environment.

Term Four – To Be AdvisedThe integrated unit for this term is currently under revision and more details will be provided at the beginning of Term 4.

CREATIVE AND PRACTICAL ARTS

In Music, children will explore the musical concepts (structure, tone colour, dynamics, pitch, duration) through a range of activities including singing, music & 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 & 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 (2 weeks 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.

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 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.’

Home LearningHome learning bridges the gap between the learning at school and at home.A basic rule of homework is that it is appropriate for each student’s age and ability.

During the year students are encouraged, with your support to develop study skills, consolidate learning, take responsibility and foster self-discipline through a homework program. Spelling and mathematics will be given on a weekly basis. The focus of homework for Year 4 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 with you. Research projects will also be included at times throughout the year. Any uncompleted work at school may be sent home to be finished. Mathletics tasks will also be set as part of the homework program.

The majority of home learning 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 Year 4, children may need to spend up to 40 minutes four evenings a week on homework.

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.

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 - preferred.Place lunch orders from your iPhone, iPad or mobile device!

For help call 1300 361 769 and flexi schools

Medicines/ 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. It is important to keep the school informed about any changes to your child's health care plan.

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 throughout the year. 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 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 CURRICULAR ACTIVITIESChoirAll students will participate in the Year 4 Choir. The Year 4 Choir meets every week during class time. The Year 4 Choir performs in the Epping District Music Festival at The Concourse, Chatswood later in the year, as well as the Granny Smith Concert and 3-6 End of Year Concert.

DanceYear 4 students have the opportunity to audition for the Year 4 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 4 students will have the opportunity to audition for the Senior Drama Troupe (Years 3-6). Rehearsals will be held during a weekly lunchtime session.

GardeningYear 4 students will have the opportunity to participate in gardening during the year. The students will tend to the garden located outside the Year 4 classrooms. They will plant vegetables, weed and mulch. All Year 4 students should have the opportunity to be involved.

GRADE ACTIVITIESActivity Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday FridayLibrary 3/4C 4/5B, 4F, 4L,

4M, 4P, 4RMusic 4P, 4R 4F, 4M 4/5B, 4L, 3/4C

Sport All Year 4Choir All Year 4Scripture All Year 4Computer 4P, 4R 4/5B 4F, 4M 4L, 3/4C

Banking All Year 4Homework Due

Completed &Signed

DueAll Year 4

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 4:

3/4C Miss Jes Condie4F- Mrs Meemee Fajimisin4L- Mr Alex Lane4M- Mrs Bonita Mendis4P- Mrs Lisa Powell4R- Mr Nic Rogencamp (Supervisor and Assistant Principal)4/5B- Mrs Bronwyn Broderick

Specialist teachers, Year 4:

Mrs Ingham (EAL/D)Mrs Cheuk & Miss Kwong (Library)Mrs Barton & Mrs Cosier (Music) Miss Tseng (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.