Level 3 - Years 3 & 4
At level three, the emphasis is on extending literacy and numeracy skills. Classes are structured with a two-hour literacy block and a one –hour numeracy block. There are opportunities for the development of creativity and information and communication technology (ICT) skills. The continuing development of Thinking Skills forms a valuable part of the curriculum.
In reading, students begin to respond to information, ideas and beliefs from contexts beyond their immediate experience. Reading is developed in numerous ways, including the use of literacy groups, serial stories, independent silent reading, home reading and an extensive variety of language activities. The children are encouraged to take responsibility for their reading and their choices of reading material. Chapter books are encouraged.
They are provided with opportunities to extend their writing skills in a variety of genres including reports, snapshots, recounts and narratives. Speaking and listening skills are extended through both formal and informal situations.
In maths, the children are introduced to more formal concepts. An emphasis is placed on linking maths to real life situations and exploring problem solving strategies. Games are utilised as a way of exploring and reflecting on maths ideas in all strands. At this level focuses in number centre on fractions/ decimals, the four processes and place value. They also begin to study the properties of 2D and 3D shapes and location strategies and concepts. Measurement knowledge is related to the understanding of formal units.
Students are also expected to achieve standards in science, the humanities, thinking processes, design, creativity and technology, personal learning, and civics and citizenship.
Each year the grade 4 children attend Oasis Camp for four days late in Term 1. Grade 3 children attend Ace-Hi Camp late in Term 3 for three days.
Integrated Studies units based on the Victorian Essential Learning Standards cover an interesting selection of topics, which rotate over a two year cycle. They are:
They are:
Multi-culturalism (Festivals and Celebrations)
Think It, Make It, Market It
Healthy Living
Changing Matter
Diet, Exercise and My Body
Things That Move
Drug Education
Sustaining our Natural World
Health: The Big Picture
Indigenous Australians
These units feature relevant excursion and incursions.
Homework is an important part of the Level 3 program. The purposes of homework are to reinforce concepts taught in class; to encourage development of appropriate research skills and recording techniques; and to encourage the development of a regular commitment to further study out of school hours. Every second week the children in level 3 complete a homework grid where are given a choice of tasks which they negotiate with their parents.
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