Prep (Teacher: Mrs Rayleen Menz)
The attitudes, behaviors, knowledge and skills developed in a child’s first year at school contribute positively to future learning. I challenge my prep students to work towards achieving their greatest potential and become self- motivated learners. As a teacher with many years experience, I know the importance of providing a friendly, discipline learning environment, where all children feel valued and experience success. Throughout this most important year, my students become enthusiastic learners who work cooperatively together and gradually develop the confidence needed to become independent thinkers, who are prepared to take risks in their desire to learn.
I encourage and welcome parents into my classroom. I value the contribution made by parents as they assist with reading, computers, PMP and administration tasks. Children are excited and proud to have family members helping in our classroom.
The 2007 prep students entered my classroom ready and eager to learn. It is important that the transition from home to school is a happy experience. An extensive transition program ensured that the prep children were familiar with the school environment, could recognize staff members and had already developed a good relationship with their grade six Buddy.
Term one saw the introduction of school and classroom rules, the administration of the Prep Entry Assessment Tasks and the completion of numerous pre- reading and pre- numeracy activities aimed at identifying students who were ready to begin formal learning. Parent helpers orientated books to each child on a daily basis to beginning developing a positive attitude towards to learning to read. The children participated in Art, Library, Music, Physical Education and Computers. “All About Me” was our focus theme for the term. Young children enjoy sharing personal experiences and this particular topic bridges the gap between school and home. The children responded positively to my classroom structure and the programs presented and were happy to come to school and motivated to learn.
Term two saw preps learning to read and write and developing some independence. Literacy Sessions were introduced, thanks to parent helpers. Indonesian lessons commenced on a weekly basis. “Zoo Animals’ was our topic to be studied. An excursion to the Werribee Zoo was the highlight. Torrential rain did not deter the preps or dampen their enthusiasm. Photographic memories are displayed on our digital portfolios. The preps were presented with their first project for home study. Oral presentations are somewhat daunting for some prep students. I was very impressed with each child’s enthusiasm and effort.
PMP was also introduced. With the support of our local church and interested parents, children move through four different activity stations each Wednesday afternoon. The emphasis is on listening too and following instructions to complete a physical activity. Indoor and outdoor facilities and equipment are used.
Our daily trip to the Healesville Pool to participate in an intensive swimming program excited the preps. Any apprehension was soon replaced with water confidence and laughter. Parents support is vital to allow young children to participate in this important activity.
To commence term three, our classroom became an underwater wonder. The children successfully experimented with a variety of different art media whilst studying the topic, “Under the Sea”. A home study assessment activity saw children making models of a sea creature to present to the class. A trip to the city to visit the Aquarium and IMAX Theatre will be an exciting educational experience for all junior school students.
Many preps can now read independently and write their own sentences. We are now studying the processes in Mathematics. Using a variety of concrete aids, children can now add and subtract and our counting skills and Mathematical language have extended.
Prep students found the introduction of line dancing somewhat challenging. With determination and a dedicated effort, we soon had our feet moving in the right direction to the music. This activity organized by our local church group has provided lots of laughter and great exercise.
Our Term four focus is on “Health and Exercise”. A visit from the Life Education Van is an exciting way of introducing this topic. Harold, the Life Education mascot, always delights my young students. This term is also very busy with assessment activities and tasks designed to develop increased independence and confidence in my students in preparation for their move into grade one. Christmas activities introduced across the curriculum areas are always fun and our classroom displays the colorful efforts of every child.
A surprise excursion and party lunch is an enjoyable and memorable way for a child to complete their first year at school.
