Primary School Curriculum

(Prep – Grade 6)

TEMIS provides a broad and balanced curriculum set by the IEA. E-learning will be embedded within the curriculum across subjects and students will become increasingly independent and responsible for their own learning through engaging in research and enquiry. It identifies eight main curriculum areas: Early Childhood, English, Mathematics, Society and Environment, Science, Technology, The Arts, Physical Education and Health and Personal Development (HPD). In addition to the main curriculum areas, TEMIS implements a LOTE (Language Other Than English) curriculum.

English

English is a vital way of communicating in school, in public life and internationally. Literature in English is rich and influential, reflecting the experience of people from many countries, cultures and times. In studying English, students develop skills in speaking and listening, reading and writing. It enables them to express themselves creatively and imaginatively and to communicate with others effectively.

Mathematics

Mathematics is important in everyday life. Through teaching and learning we aim to develop student’s confidence and enthusiasm in using and applying mathematical skills and knowledge of the world around them. At TEMIS our programme is based on numbers and the number system, calculations, solving problems, data handling and measure, shape and space.

Inquiry Approach

Teaching and Learning in subject areas outside of English and Mathematics at TEMIS is based on an inquiry approach, with different subjects integrated into inquiry units, where appropriate.

Inquiry learning is an active thinking and learning process. It is a student centred learning approach in which the learner is actively involved in the process. Students are actively engaged in the process of investigating, processing, organizing, synthesizing, refining and extending their knowledge within a topic. Inquiry learning encourages students to form concepts and generalisations instead of being told simple answers to more complex questions.

Learning is more effective when connections are made across contexts, between learning areas and between prior and new knowledge. Pre-unit planning discussions focus on what students already know and what they want to know and learn, to ensure appropriate pitch and to increase motivation and achievement.

TEMIS STEM

At TEMIS STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) uses the different learning areas through our Inquiry Approach to create solutions. It can involve the students identifying issues and problems, posing questions, providing explanations, drawing evidence-based conclusions and of course creating solutions. Using the Inquiry Approach through STEM students develop a deeper knowledge of a subject, use their creativity, problem solve, use critical thinking and develop their communication skills.

Partnerships with industry, community and universities are nurtured, so that students can understand the true purpose of their learning and are provided with expert support to deepen their understanding.

Computing and ICT

As we work towards educating 21st century learners, an aim for the school is to effectively implement an ICT and Computing Programme that teaches our students to be collaborative, critical thinkers who can problem solve and be competent with technology, in order to thrive in today’s ever-changing world of technology.

The ICT and Computing Overview has three main strands:

• ICT
  This will be covered by using technology to support other subject areas, but at times it may be necessary to teach some discrete skills. Students should understand that technology is everywhere, be able to identify the technology they encounter and have a basic understanding of how it works. This will link to work on programming and algorithms. The appropriate activities will include word processing, creating images, taking and using photographs and video, creating music and animations, using and creating databases, producing websites and contributing to blogs.
• Computing
  In this strand, students learn about algorithms and that it is the basis of what they need to know in order to write computer programs. They will learn how to write algorithms and programs. Problem Solving teachers the students to begin to find mistakes (bugs) and fix them. As students learn to write programs, they will learn that there are often different ways of getting the right outcome, and they need to be able to evaluate the programs to decide which is the most efficient.
• Web Safety
  Students will learn to use technology safely. They will learn that it is important to keep their personal information private and treat other people with respect and something goes wrong or they see something they don’t like, they should know what to do and where to go for help. As students develop through the grades, they learn how to use technology responsibly, as well as thinking about how their online behaviour affects others. They need to be aware of legal and ethical responsibilities.

The ICT and Computing Program will be linked to our Inquiry units together with STEM projects.

Assessment

TEMIS assesses students to measure progress and to set targets for students so that they have goals and also can see how well they are progressing.

For students demonstrating learning difficulties, work may be modified and additional support provided against a support plan agreed by the school and parents together in partnership.

Students who have particular gifts and talents will be supported to develop their skills and both use and apply these into challenging activities.

Homework

Homework is anything that students need to complete outside usual lessons. Homework encompasses a variety of activities, many of which are online through Mathletics and Literacy Planet.

Students are expected to read regularly, practise spellings and number facts, but at times homework may include a more extended activity that will develop inquiry skills or more directed and focused work such as revision for tests.

Homework provides parents with an opportunity to become involved in their child’s learning and to develop home-school links. It helps students develop good study habits, cultivates a positive attitude towards schools and helps parents and students realise that learning happens outside of school, not just in school.