Year 6 at Ascot State School is an exciting and productive year for students.  The main theme of the year is Change and this is reflected across all Key Learning Areas.

Philosophy of Middle Phase Learners

Year 6 students are Middle Phase learners.  Learning experiences for Year 6 are structured around the needs of Middle Phase learners.  These needs include a connectedness to the real world, being given the opportunity to negotiate their own learning experiences and the recognition of the importance of relationships with their teachers and peers. 

Dimensions of Learning

Teachers use the Dimensions of Learning Framework to plan meaningful learning experiences for their students.  This allows teachers to develop programs that cater for a range of learning styles and experiences.  Teachers develop supportive classroom environments where risk-taking, questioning and evaluating are encouraged. Students are encouraged to see learning experiences as meaningful and purposeful.

Specialist Lessons

Specialist teachers deliver instruction in the following KLAs
Physical Education        ½ hour/week
LOTE                          2 x ¾ hour/week
Music                           ½ hour/week

Higher Order Thinking (HOT) Skills
Year 6 students participate in a HOT Skills program.  These skills are encouraged and enhanced by the focussed instruction and use of tools such as graphic organisers.  Year 6 students are exposed to and instructed the hierarchical Bloom’s Taxonomy which develops children learning through the spectrum of knowledge, skills and comprehension further onto analysis and evaluation. 

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
The use of ICTs is imbedded into teaching practice. Students access and use ICTs to enhance their learning experiences.  Classrooms are equipped with computers, printers, laptops and data projectors.  Students are constantly exposed to and encouraged to use processes such as movie making, animation, presentation and organisational applications.

Reporting

Student report cards are distributed at the end of Semesters 1 and 2.  Parent teacher interviews are offered in Semester 1.

The Learning Environment

Year 6 students are located in the school’s new Middle Phase building.  Classrooms are designed to meet the flexible learning needs of the Middle Phase learner.  The rooms can be configured in several ways and teachers use this facility to best meet the learning needs of the students.  The wing contains three classrooms and an outdoor learning area.  Computer areas are integrated into the classroom design. 

Camps/Excursions

Year 6 students attend camp.  This camp has an environmental theme.  Teamwork and cooperation are a focus of the camp.  Shorter excursions are also offered throughout the year to enhance students’ learning experiences.

Leadership

Year 6 students enjoy leadership opportunities.  Children take part in the school’s Leadership Program that includes our Leadership day, which features inspirational speakers and team building activities.  A dedicated program to enhancing leadership skills is offered throughout the year.  Goal setting is an integral part of the Year 6 program.