Probability with Playing Cards

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

Today, our lesson focused on exploring probability, chance, and percentages through a fun and interactive game using playing cards. We began by discussing a standard deck of 52 cards, explaining that the deck is divided into four suits: spades, clubs, hearts, and diamonds. We then calculated that each suit contains 13 cards, as 52 divided by 4 equals 13.

Next, each student chose a suit to represent: spades, clubs, hearts, or diamonds. The objective of the game was for the students to shuffle the deck, draw a card, and place it in line. The suit of the card that reached the ruler first was declared the winner.

Before starting, we worked together to calculate the probability of drawing any particular suit. Since each suit has an equal number of cards, we determined that each suit has a 1 in 4 chance, or 25%, of being selected. Students then selected one card and placed it in the line to represent their suit. We paused the game when we saw that there were five spades, three hearts, two diamonds, and no clubs in the line. One student provided a great explanation of probability, suggesting that clubs would be the most likely suit to be drawn next because there were still 13 clubs remaining in the deck, while only eight spades remained. This demonstrated an excellent understanding of how the remaining cards in the deck affect the likelihood of each suit being selected.

We continued the game, discussing the changing probabilities and percentages with each card drawn. In the end, the spade team emerged as the winners!

This was a highly engaging and enjoyable way for the students to learn about probability, chance, and percentages in a hands-on and practical context.

Kind regards,
Cassundra and Luke

 

5KF, 5KH and 6LF Melbourne Cup Probability

To parents/ caregivers,

Happy Melbourne Cup Day!

Today the three classes joined together to learn about probability.

We had a discussion on event, where students had to decide if it’s certain, likely, unlikely, or impossible.

•A horse will win the race
•A horse with a jockey wearing red will win
•The same horse wins the Melbourne Cup two years in a row
•All horses finish the race at the exact same time
•A grey horse wins the race
•It will rain during the Melbourne Cup
•Every horse finishes the race
•A horse wins by more than five lengths

We began by introducing the 24 horses participating in today’s race, using fractions to represent their chances of winning. Students applied their understanding of probability to select a horse they believed had a high likelihood of winning, as well as one they thought was unlikely to triumph.

This hands-on, interactive activity not only sparked enthusiasm but also provided a fun and engaging way to deepen students’ understanding of probability. We’re excited to watch the race together and see how their predictions unfold!

Have a great week.

 

Kind regards,

 

Cassundra and Luke

Re-Designing Holy Family Catholic School Final Count Down!

To Parents and Caregivers,

As we approach Friday of Week 2, we are excited to share that we are nearing the completion of our Term 3/4 assessment focused on re-designing Holy Family Catholic School. This project reflects the incredible growth of our school, with students collaborating to envision our school’s expansion from Early Learning Centre to High School.

This week, our students are diligently finalising the key components of their assessments. They are reviewing their work to ensure all requirements are met, perfecting their Co-Spaces designs, and refining the justifications for their proposed changes.

In Year 5, students are focusing on the following elements:

  • Mapping the school and identifying coordinates
  • Translating building locations
  • Calculating the area and perimeter of classrooms and additional structures
  • Applying financial mathematics to create a school budget and menu
  • Developing a Co-Spaces design of the school, which includes coding, editing, and construction
  • Providing justifications for their design choices and inclusion.

In Year 6, students are required to include:

  • Mapping the school and identifying coordinates
  • Translating building locations
  • Calculating the area and perimeter of classrooms and additional structures
  • Measuring the volume of buildings
  • Determining angles of buildings
  • Developing a Co-Spaces design of the school, including coding, editing, and construction
  • Applying financial mathematics to create a school budget and menu
  • Providing justifications for their design choices and inclusions

Our students have approached this assessment with immense pride and enthusiasm, skilfully integrating their mathematics, technology, and artistic talents. It has been truly inspiring to watch them collaborate, delegate responsibilities, and support one another as they work towards a collective vision for the re-design of Holy Family Catholic School.

Thank you,

Cassundra and Luke

 

 

Exploring the Elements of Music: Year 5 and 6 Arts Learning Journey

This term in Year 5 and 6, our students are diving deep into the exciting world of music through the lens of its fundamental elements. Our learning intention is straightforward yet profound: to understand the different elements of music. To kick off our music journey, we’ll explore the various elements that make up music. From rhythm and melody to dynamics and timbre, each component plays a vital role in creating the rich tapestry of sound we all enjoy.

This lesson we provided a foundational understanding of these elements, and here’s how we’ll go about it:

Discussion on Elements of Music
We started with an engaging discussion that covered the different elements of music. Each element was defined and illustrated with examples, helping students connect theory with real-world music.

Walking to the Beat
To make the concept of beat more tangible, we played ‘Walk to the Beat’. Students physically walked to the rhythm of various songs, which not only enhanced their understanding of beat but also get them moving and energised!

Passing the Beat
Next, we will played ‘Pass the Beat’, where students experienced different beats at 70 BPM, 120 BPM, and 170 BPM. This game not only reinforced their understanding of tempo but also promoted teamwork and communication as they kept the beat flowing.

Through this term’s focus on the elements of music, Year 5 and 6 students will not only gain a deeper understanding of what music is made of, but they will also develop essential skills in listening, collaboration, and creativity.

We are excited to see how they express their newfound knowledge and what unique interpretations of music they will come up with along the way.

Kind regards,

Cassundra and Luke

 

 

.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reminders

Hi parents and caregivers,

On Thursday 12th September we have a 9 am Assembly where students can wear traditional or cultural clothing and the 5KF and 6LF double will be hosting a shared lunch!

Have a lovely week.

Thank you,

Cassundra and Luke

Continuation of Moon Light Lanterns

To parents / caregivers,

This week we have gotten into the construction of 5KF and 6LF moon light lanterns. The double has showed exceptional creativity and dedication to bringing their designs to life and we cannot wait for you all to see them all. Below are images of the process the students have been going through to create their moon light lanterns.

A reminder that we are doing a 5KF and 6LF shared lunch Thursday the 12th September 2024 to celebrate the Moon Light Lantern Festival and it would be wonderful if each student could bring food to share for lunch.

Have a wonderful evening.

Kind regards,

Cassundra and Luke

To parents/ caregivers,

In 5KF and 6LF we’re getting prepared for the Moon Lantern Festival by working in groups to design and create our very own lanterns. Each group is brainstorming ideas, sketching out designs, and selecting materials that will bring their visions to life. We’re experimenting with various colours, shapes, and themes to capture the spirit of the festival, which celebrates the harvest moon and symbolises unity and prosperity. The process is both creative and collaborative, allowing us to blend our individual talents and ideas into something truly special.

Next week, we’ll move from the planning phase to the hands-on construction of our lanterns. Armed with our designs and materials, we’ll start assembling our creations, paying close attention to the details that will make them stand out. This stage promises to be both exciting and challenging, as we bring our concepts to life and troubleshoot any issues that arise. By the end of the week, we’ll have a stunning array of lanterns ready for display, each reflecting our group’s unique take on the Moon Lantern Festival’s rich traditions.

Have a lovely week.

Kind regards,

Cassundra and Luke