Welcome to week 3!

Good morning all,

I hope your weekend was just as good as it was in the Ricciardone household. We decided to surprise my footy obsessed Xavier with a quick trip to Optus stadium to watch the AFLW derby. It was such a special moment to see both our boys go from disbelief to sheer delight when we told them. To top it all off Freo won, Xavier got to meet his favourite player and Harry was lucky enough to win the class bear for the weekend. Winners all round I say!


I want to congratulate our Communications ministry (Meelup faction) on setting up and running an excellent assembly on Friday. A special mention goes to Kobe and Ruby, our brave presenters, you both looked like seasoned professionals!

There a couple of events going on this week that will change our routine slightly but still plenty of work to be done...

Important Reminders - Week 3

PAT Testing
This week we will begin our series of formal PAT assessments which will help further inform our understanding of your child's learning needs, as well as guide groupings within the classroom. The students will be noting in their diaries the days these tests will take place. They do not need to prepare for these in any way, however it is important that they get a good night's rest each day to ensure they are refreshed and ready


Swimming Time Trials 
On Tuesday, the 18th of February, Years 4, 5 & 6 will be departing school at 9am to travel to the Geographe Leisure Centre (Busselton) for the swimming carnival time trials. We will be returning to school by lunch time. 

Students will need to wear sport uniform (faction t-shirt) over their bathers. Sport shoes must be worn to school but a pair of thongs may be packed in your child's school bag to travel to and from the pool in. Students must bring in a plastic bag, a rashie, goggles, towel and a change of underwear.

Children will be taking their lunchboxes with us as Crunch and Sip and recess will be eaten at the pool. Lunch will be eaten when we return to school, therefore, if your child would like to order their lunch from the canteen they will still be able to. Please check your child has filled their water bottle on Tuesday morning.


Swimming Notes
Last week, swimming forms (pink note) were sent home to be filled in, signed and returned in preparation for the upcoming swimming lessons beginning Week 6. Please ensure you return them as soon as possible.


Board AGM
On Wednesday 19th February the annual Board AGM will be taking place in the hall from 7pm. All are welcome...it would be great to see you there.


Year 5/6 Back Education

This Friday 21st February, Dunsborough Physio will be visiting the Year 5 and 6 classes to discuss important information about how to protect their backs whilst carrying heavy bags and school books, The students will also hear great tips on how to maintain good posture, especially when using technology on a regular basis. I'm looking forward to learning something new myself!

Learning Highlight - Week 2

Last week in Science we observed our fungi developing in the form of mould! Did you know there are over 150 000 different types of fungi? The students have noticed, depending on their indepedent variable that mould has either consumed their bread or no spores have developed at all. For those who chose to bury their bread underground or store it in the fridge, have found that these are one of the most effective ways to prevent fungi from growing. We will continue our observations this week and complete our final review on Thursday. Here are some of our examples so far:

We also started a new investigation last week, again changing only one independent variable. We are now investigating what is more important when growing a basil plant: fertiliser or drainage? The students had to form groups, plant their seedlings using many controlled variables and then change one thing: fertiliser either in the form of liquid or balls or have drainage using rocks or holes at the bottom with a saucer. We will continue to observe these in groups for 6 weeks. At the end the students will present a short presentation that informs us of their findings. Hopefully you will get to enjoy the fruits of our labour on pizza or in salads come week 10!

Homework - Week 3

The students completed their Home Learning Grid (HLG) incredibly well last week. They have received a new one for this week and is glued into their homework books. Please remember to sign the consent at the bottom of this grid.

They are to complete:
1. Reading - 20 mins each night
2. Spelling - 2 nights of Sound Waves games & 2 nights of written activities (Spelling Grid)
3. 3 activities from the Free Choice section of the HLG

PAT Tests:
Monday - PAT Reading Comprehension Test
Thursday - PAT Vocabulary Test
Friday - PAT Spelling Test


Have a great week everyone, it's going to be a good one!

Mrs Ricciardone & Mrs Martin