Welcome to Year 4.
Philosophy for Middle Phase Learners
Year 4 is a transitional year from the Early Phase of Learning to the Middle Phase of Learning.
Students in the middle phase have distinctive needs. We aim to provide for these needs using strategies such as:

• Identity – exploring how individual and group identities are shaped by social and cultural groups
• Relationships—developing productive and affirming relationships with adults and peers in an environment that respects difference and diversity
• Purpose – having opportunities to negotiate learning that is useful now, as well as in the future
• Empowerment – viewing the world critically and acting independently, cooperatively and responsibly
• Success – having multiple opportunities to learn valued knowledge and skills as well as the opportunity to use talents and expertise that students bring to the learning environment
• Safety – learning in a safe, caring and stimulating environment.

Dimensions of Learning
At Ascot State School teachers use the Dimensions of Learning Framework. This framework allows both teachers and students to use these guidelines for effective learning by:

• Providing a supportive classroom environment
• Encouraging risk taking in learning
• Making available activities to suit a range of learning styles
• Creating environments where the students work in whole class, group and individual situations
• Helping children to understand the purpose of their learning

Key Learning Areas

• English
• Mathematics
• SOSE – Studies of Society and the Environment
• Science
• Technology
• Health and Physical Education
• The Arts

Specialist Lessons
Students are involved in the following lessons with qualified specialist teachers on a weekly basis:
Physical Education – 2 x ½ hour lessons per week
Music – 2 x ½ hour lessons per week
Instrumental Music – children audition at the beginning of the year. If successful, lessons take place throughout the week with qualified music teachers.
Choir – children may join the Senior Choir in Year 4. Rehearsal occurs 1 lunch-time per week.
Higher Order Thinking (HOT) Skills
Ascot children participate in a HOT Skills program. In Year 4 children undertake Tony Ryan’s Thinking Keys. These activities encourage the children to think in many different ways and to use graphic organisers to represent their thinking.
Information and Communication Technologies
ICT is integrated throughout the Year 4 Curriculum. Children have access to computers within the classroom and Computer Lab. Children develop a wide variety of skills with software (eg: PowerPoint, Animation Shop 3, Movie Maker) and hardware (eg: digital still and video cameras, keepads)
Reporting
Student Report Cards are distributed at the conclusion of semester 1 and 2. Parent / Teacher Interviews are offered in Semester 1.
Excursions
In Year 4 the children attend excursions that will develop and expand the learning opportunities in their current units of study. Children will also talk to Guest Speakers who can relate real life experiences.

Life and Living 

Earth and Beyond