NAPLAN
Congratulations to our Year 3 & 5 students who have completed their National testing over the past two weeks. NAPLAN testing 2024 for students in Years 3 and 5 commenced on Wednesday 13 March. Catch up tests can be completed up to Monday 25 March for students who may have missed a test through an absence or for other reasons. 

All students who participate in NAPLAN receive an individual report of their results. NAPLAN individual student reports will be provided to schools from Term 3, with timing determined by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA).

We have been very proud of our Year 3 and Year 5 students’ approach to the testing and the way they have efficiently used the time given to them to complete the tests. Thank you to the Year 3 and Year 5 teachers  and our Classroom Support Assistants who have supported the children.

CONNECTING MATHS CONCEPTS K-6
Connecting Math Concepts is a comprehensive Mathematics program designed to help students develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts and build their problem-solving skills. The program covers a wide range of mathematical topics, including number and algebra, measurement and space, and data analysis. It follows a logical and sequential progression, ensuring that students develop a solid foundation in Mathematics.

The program is structured in a way that connects different mathematical concepts and builds upon previously learned skills. It focuses on developing students' ability to think critically and apply mathematical knowledge to real-world situations. By emphasising connections between concepts and promoting problem-solving strategies, Connecting Math Concepts aims to help students develop a conceptual understanding of Mathematics rather than just memorising procedures.

Lesson Structure
Each lesson within Connecting Math Concepts follows a structured format. Typically, it includes an introduction, guided practice, independent practice, and a summary or review section. During the lesson, tasks come in different formats, including multiple-choice questions, open-ended questions, problem-solving scenarios, and interactive activities. The variety helps engage students and allows for a well-rounded approach to skill development. Students are given opportunities for practice and reinforcement before applying their learning independently, solidifying their understanding, and developing fluency in mathematical procedures.

Lesson Progression: The program is usually organised in a sequential manner, with lessons building upon previously learned concepts. The tasks within each lesson typically progress in difficulty to scaffold students’ learning. They start with simpler problems and gradually increase in complexity, challenging students to apply their understanding in more advanced contexts. This progression is designed to help students develop a solid foundation in mathematical concepts and skills.

What are some of the benefits of CMC?
Conceptual Understanding: The program emphasises the development of conceptual understanding rather than just memorisation. It helps students make connections between different mathematical concepts, promoting a deeper understanding of how maths works and its real-world applications.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Connecting Math Concepts focuses on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It encourages students to think analytically, reason logically, and apply mathematical concepts to solve complex problems. This prepares them for real-life situations where maths skills are essential.

Differentiated Instruction: The program offers differentiated instruction to address the diverse needs of students. Our students are placed into instructional groups based on a placement test and information gathered by teachers during class assessments as well benchmark assessments used by all students across the archdiocese. Student progress is monitored and tracked daily to assess mastery of content, and if students haven’t mastered a particular aspect of a lesson, this will be retaught. CMC provides resources and strategies to support struggling learners, as well as challenges for advanced students. This allows our teachers to meet individual student needs and promote growth for all learners.

If you are interested in watching a Connecting Maths Concepts lesson, please contact me and we can arrange a time for you to visit our classrooms.

THANK YOU FROM SAMOA
Recently, Calvin in Yr 3 and his family travelled to Samoa to visit family. While they were there they visited the local preschool and Vaiala Beach School where Calvin’s cousin’s Alby and Teddy attend. Before Calvin and his family left for Samoa, they collected a donation of books from St Mary’s to gift to these two schools. The staff and children were thrilled with their new books and sent a huge Samoan thank you to St Mary’s, and Calvin, for your kindness.  

God bless and take care

Mrs Sue Heffernan
Assistant Principal