In Literacy we explicitly teach Reading, Writing and Spelling basing our learning on the Workshop Model and we make sure that we cater to the needs of all of our students. In the Workshop Model the mini-lesson at the start of the learning clearly sets out what we’re learning and why, and how we will know when we have achieved it. Students work in groups and independently, and share their learning at the end of the lesson.
We teach Writing focusing on the 6+1 Traits of Writing. Students are taught to consider their ideas, sentence fluency, organisation, word choice, voice, conventions and presentation in their writing pieces.
In Reading, we focus on students understanding how to select a Just Right book to enable them to learn from their reading experience. Students develop accuracy and comprehension skills through mini-lesson, independent work and conferencing with their teacher. They track their thinking as they read in a Reader’s Notebook whilst focusing on comprehension strategies, thinking within, beyond and about the text. Our early years reading program is heavily based on a phonics approach to develop phonological awareness and decoding skills.
Mathematics
In Mathematics we work to develop an understanding of mathematical concepts in students, reinforced with engaging and hands on learning experiences. Students are grouped and regrouped at their point of need. In 2023 we became part of the Primary Maths Science Specialist initiative, and have two experienced teachers leading our mathematics practise, based on the work of Peter Sullivan. Children regularly engage in problem solving tasks which allow for success, challenge and extension. We structure our teaching around the Big Ideas of mathematics; trusting the count, place value, multiplicative thinking, multiplicative partitioning and generalising algebraic reasoning.
Humanities and Science
Our whole school learning sequence takes students on a journey through topics in Geography, History, and Science. Students develop information literacy and critical thinking skills as they learn about the natural world and how we live in the world. It also develops problem-solving abilities and skills for lifelong learning. Students work co-operatively and collaboratively to solve problems.
Specialist Program
At Monbulk Primary School, our rich Specialist program supports children to develop and discover a wide range of skills and experiences. Students take each Specialist class once a week. Our Specialist classes are Auslan, Physical Education, Visual & Performing Arts, STEM, and the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden for Gr 3-6.
Auslan
Students learn Auslan as a second language through finger spelling, vocabulary words, and communication games. We also develop our understanding of deaf culture and inclusion. Children build their knowledge of signs and communication, and demonstrate their skills at assemblies.
Physical Education
Students participate in PE and develop the movement skills and participate in a range of physical activities. These include team ball sports such as Netball and Basketball, athletics events, racquet and bat sports, and running, jumping and balance movement activities.
Students can choose to participate in the inter-school sport competitions including Cross Country, Athletics, Basketball, Netball, Cricket, and Soccer. Our House Athletics Carnival is held every year and is a wonderful day of sport and fun.
Visual & Performing Arts
Children learn Music, Drawing & Painting, Drama and Dance.
Every second year we hold a whole school Production, and every student participates through song, dance and drama. In these years our Arts program is more heavily focussed on Dance and Drama with Music. In the alternate year students develop their Visual Arts skills, alongside Music. Students can also access individual private music lessons for an additional fee by contacting the front office.
STEM
Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths (STEM) is a multidisciplinary subject which develops student’s collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking through tasks and challenges. These include programming, coding, and building projects to solve challenges and problems. Students also complete 3D printing design activities, and can compete in the Lego Spike Prime competition.