Year 1 Parent Information Afternoon 2014 Adam Williams

Let’s Begin… Thank you for your time.

Background -Teaching wasn’t my first job. -This is my 17th year of teaching. -Degree in Primary Education. -Post Graduate Degree in Special Education. -Variety of schools. (Special Education and Primary) -Currently studying for Masters. -Australia, Singapore and England. -I’m also a S.H.P.S. parent. (Year 2 and 5)

About me - Philosophy -I strive to teach the acquisition of life-long learning skills and to prepare students to function effectively in an ever-changing, digital world. -I use an eclectic, differentiated approach with implementation. -I love it!

My Beliefs Children learn better if they are motivated. It is my responsibility to ensure all children achieve their potential. All children have different strengths and weaknesses. Teaching is about connecting with children and building strong relationships. Children learn best when they are led to work things out for themselves – not merely told or shown.

Expectations we have for our students To become independent, inquiring, responsible, and motivated learners. To become students who accept learning as a daily part of their lives. To be part of an active, engaging community of learners within the school, our classroom and the community. To be the best that he or she can be.

Timetable

Language (English) Oral Communication (Speaking & Listening) Written Communication (Reading & Writing) Visual Communication (Viewing & Presenting)

Reading Strategies Guided Reading. Independent Reading. Explicit teaching of reading and comprehension strategies ( your inner voice, finding main idea). Reading at home. Book selection. Independent Books vs Instructional Books. To become an avid, lifelong reader - read books that you enjoy!

Reading at home up to 20 minutes per night (including PreRead) Listen to your daughter/son read and ask questions (check for understanding) * What was the author’s message? (inferring) * Who were the main characters? Describe them to me. (visualising / determining importance) * What part of the book reminds you of something in your life or something you may have seen or read? (connecting to the text)

Reading at home Set aside a reading time each night. Read to your son / daughter – emphasise expression & intonation (they are never too old to hear you read to them). Learning To Read – Reading To Learning.

Writing Modelled writing – teacher & class Writing in context – connecting to other subjects and events (eg. Excursions) Guided Writing – e.g. small groups Independent writing Handwriting development

Mathematics Number, Measurement, Shape and Space, Pattern and Function. Concrete play. Discussion/Investigations. Maths Games. Mathletics. Problem Solving - Logic Problems / Worded Problems / Real Life Problems. Covering all areas of Mathematics – using textbook as a major resource but also recognising that text books are not always the “best fit” for all.

Mathematics Research suggests learning is enhanced when teachers: 1.pay attention to the knowledge and beliefs that learners bring to a learning task. 2.use this knowledge as a starting point for new instruction. 3.monitor students' changing conceptions as instruction proceeds. Extension is more than doing the content for Year 2 – it is about using and applying understanding in a meaningful way (vertical as opposed to horizontal). Where appropriate we integrate maths into our other subjects. However, most of the skills-based Number work is done in stand-alone units of work.

Other Subject Lessons Art - Thursday. PE – Monday. Music - Tuesday. Year One Choir - Tuesday Drama – Tuesday. Computers- Monday Library Borrowing - Thursday (library bag) + library supported lessons throughout the year.

Homework Spelling Activity. Reading (Nightly if possible). Mathletics. We are encouraging a home study routine but PLEASE remember children need time to relax and reflect after a busy day.

Miscellaneous Information Absences: please inform class teacher or office by phone or . Water bottle. Munch ‘n’ Crunch – Healthy snack early in the school day. Lunch – Ten minutes eating time, Lunch orders to canteen before school. Hat.

Home – School Communication CLASS WIKISPACE: 1aw.wikispaces.com INTERNET: Newsletters – hardcopy or via internet.1aw.wikispaces.comwww.summerhill-p.schools.nsw.edu.au Phone: Face to Face meetings

Learning Conversations The single most important discussion we can have together as educators and parents is one that is focused on improving student learning. These conversations should be open, supportive, encouraging and always focused on what is best for the child. They should be based on the mutual recognition that students, teachers and parents are all key stakeholders in our learning community. Teacher with Teachers Parents with Teachers

Parent Volunteers Class contact Reading Groups Computer Lab Excursion volunteers Special skills volunteers (your expertise) P & C

Questions