AC Science planning template - LisaHillSchoolStuff's Weblog Web viewThis unit combines compatible...

INSTRUCTIONS: SAVE AS Year Level name of unit odd/even year (Year 3 & 4 ODD/EVEN YEARS) & semester e.g. Year 3 & 4 Living Things Odd Years Sem 1.

NB If it is an updated version of a previous unit, add the version number e.g. Year 3 & 4 Living Things Odd Years Sem 1 V2.

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Learning Focus, Content descriptors & elaborations & Standards instructions +PoLTDelete all aspects not applicable in this unit from VELS and Australian Curriculum sections & PoLT.

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INSERT NAME OF SCHOOL INSERT NAME OF UNIT Odd/Even/All Years – year level

This unit combines compatible content and skills from the Australian Science Curriculum and the three Priorities with the Victorian Essential Learning Standards for Science AND relevant interdisciplinary learning from VELS Personal Learning,

Interdisciplinary Learning, Thinking Processes. Some aspects of VELS and Australian English curriculum are also included.

This unit was developed by (insert names of contributing teachers and date.)

ContentsLESSON SEQUENCES................................................................................................................................4

Lesson 1.......................................................................................................................................................................................................4Lesson 2.......................................................................................................................................................................................................4

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Lesson 3.......................................................................................................................................................................................................4Lesson 4.......................................................................................................................................................................................................4Lesson 5.......................................................................................................................................................................................................5Lesson 6.......................................................................................................................................................................................................5Lesson 7.......................................................................................................................................................................................................5Lesson 8.......................................................................................................................................................................................................5Lesson 9.......................................................................................................................................................................................................7Lesson 10.....................................................................................................................................................................................................7Lesson 11.....................................................................................................................................................................................................7

Key Understandings for Assessment.........................................................................................................8Focus Questions............................................................................................................................................8LEARNING FOCUS............................................................................................................................................................................................9VICTORIAN ESSENTIAL LEARNING STANDARDS LEARNING FOCUS.........................................9

VELS Learning Focus Science Level 3..................................................................................................................................................9VELS Learning Focus English Level 3...................................................................................................................................................9VELS Learning Focus Thinking Processes Level 3.............................................................................................................................11VELS Learning Focus Personal Learning Level 3...............................................................................................................................11VELS Learning Focus Interpersonal Learning Level 3.......................................................................................................................11

AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM LEARNING FOCUS – SCIENCE LEVEL DESCRIPTION: Years 3 & 4 12AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM CONTENT DESCRIPTIONS AND ELABORATIONS – SCIENCE: Years 3 & 4 12

SCIENCE UNDERSTANDING................................................................................................................................................................12SCIENCE AS A HUMAN ENDEAVOUR...............................................................................................................................................13SCIENCE ENQUIRY SKILLS..................................................................................................................................................................13

AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM ENGLISH LEVEL DESCRIPTION Years 3 & 4................................13AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM CONTENT DESCRIPTIONS AND ELABORATIONS – ENGLISH: Years 3 & 4 14

READING AND VIEWING.......................................................................................................................................................................14WRITING....................................................................................................................................................................................................14SPEAKING AND LISTENING.................................................................................................................................................................15

AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM PRIORITIES...........................................................................................16

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures...............................................................................................................16Asia and Australia’s Engagement with Asia.........................................................................................................................................16Sustainability..............................................................................................................................................................................................16

ACHIEVEMENT STANDARDS.......................................................................................................................................................................18VICTORIAN ESSENTIAL LEARNING STANDARDS (VELS) ACHIEVEMENT STANDARDS......18

VELS Science StandardsYears 3 & 4....................................................................................................................................................18VELS English Standards Years 3 & 4....................................................................................................................................................19VELS Thinking Processes Standards Years 3 & 4..............................................................................................................................19VELS Personal Learning Standards Years 3 & 4................................................................................................................................19VELS Interpersonal Learning Standards Years 3 & 4.........................................................................................................................20

AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM ACHIEVEMENT STANDARDS – SCIENCE.....................................20AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM SCIENCE Years 3 & 4........................................................................................................................20

AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM ACHIEVEMENT STANDARDS – ENGLISH.....................................20AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM ENGLISH Years 3 & 4........................................................................................................................20

PoLT (Principles of Learning and Teaching)...........................................................................................21PoLT focus to be embedded in this unit................................................................................................................................................21

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LESSON SEQUENCES Lesson 1 Lesson 2 Lesson 3 Lesson 4

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Key Understandings for Assessment Focus Questions

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LEARNING FOCUSVICTORIAN ESSENTIAL LEARNING STANDARDS LEARNING FOCUS

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VELS Learning

Focus Science Level 3

As students work towards the achievement of Level 3 standards in Science, they begin to design and conduct experiments to explore contexts drawn from traditional and emerging sciences. They investigate questions and ideas about the natural world and learn to use scientific vocabulary in place of everyday language to describe and explain their observations and measurements. They begin to understand that the design of experiments is directly related to their questions about things and events. They learn to describe evidence in support of simple scientific ideas.Students investigate changes they observe; for example, day becoming night, using brakes to stop a bicycle hitting a gate,seed germination and plant growth, and the regeneration of forests after a bushfire. They examine, by referring to energy transformation, the operation of a range of everyday devices; for example, gates, locks, toasters and hot water systems. They investigate the use of solar Energy in cooking or lighting or transport. Students learn about the actions of forces on objects that affect their motion and shape in everyday situations such as walking, playing ball games, blowing up balloons, playing with moving toys and riding in cars or aeroplanes. They explore the relationship between distance and the apparent size of an observed object. They participate in activities where they learn to classify a variety of materials using states of matter (solids, liquids, gases) and they learn that some materials are difficult to classify; for example, honey, plaster, jelly and carbonated soft drinks. They explore reversible and non-reversible changes to common substances such as water, vinegar and bicarbonate of soda.They begin to understand how different parts work together in plants and animals to produce change and to aid in survival; for example, growth and movement. They realise that offspring are similar to their parents. They learn to classify things that they find in their environment as living (biotic) or non-living (abiotic). They investigate how humans affect the survival of living things and change the environment, and how interactions between living things in the environment change. They investigate natural processes that change the environment over short periods of time (tsunami, drought, floods) and long periods of time (weathering and erosion). Students are introduced to the concept of a sustainable environment and their role in contributing to it; for example, involvement in local litter programs and recycling at home and at school.Students relate scientific ideas to their own experiences, interests and concerns, and to a variety of personal and community uses of science and links with technology; for example, the location of mobile phone towers or clearing local bushland to build new roads. They examine how scientists work and how science knowledge has developed by visiting scientists at work, listening to guest speakers or conducting research on the Internet. Students discuss safety considerations and a variety of procedures and processes (including fair tests, variables, ethical considerations relating to observing animals, and selecting and using equipment correctly) that could be used when undertaking experiments.

VELS Learning

Focus English Level 3

As students work towards the achievement of Level 3 standards in English, they speak, listen, read and write with some critical awareness, using a growing variety of text types and show some appreciation of the role of formal discourses in English.Students read an increasing range of texts including imaginative texts such as chapter books, junior novels and poems, as well as informative texts, in print and electronic form. Texts typically have varied sentence patterns, written language structures and some specialised topic-related or literary vocabulary, and ideas and information extending beyond students’ immediate experience. Students use a range of strategies to interpret the main ideas and purpose of texts – for example, interpreting figurative language or linking information from headings – and explore characters’ qualities, motives and actions. Through discussion, students develop their understanding of why interpretations of a text may vary, and how the choice of subject matter is influenced by context, the author’s purpose, and the intended audience. They read more critically and learn about the use of some simple symbolic meanings and stereotypes in texts.Students develop confidence in writing a range of imaginative and informative texts, including simple narratives and descriptions, and texts that explain, inform and express a point of view. They draw on their knowledge of texts and language and learn to use a variety of sentences in appropriate grammatical order, using suitable vocabulary for the subject matter including nouns, verbs, adjectives and adverbs, and punctuating appropriately to support meaning including exclamation marks and quotation marks. They learn to spell most one- and two-syllable words with regular spelling patterns (for example, growing, found, might), frequently used words which have less regular spelling patterns (for example, because, there, friends), and some other words of more than one syllable (for example,

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yesterday, afternoon, money). They make plausible attempts at spelling new and more difficult words. They experiment with combining verbal and visual elements to enhance the texts they produce.Students develop strategies for writing to assist in planning and organising ideas prior to writing, and adapt their writing to suit their audience and purpose. They learn to use a range of resources, including information and communications technology, to revise written work and check spelling.Students recognise that speaking and listening provide opportunities to exchange information, to share and explore ideas, and to express opinions and listen to the opinions of others. They participate in discussions, conversations and presentations in small and large groups, learning to vary their speaking and listening to suit the context, purpose and audience. In spontaneous, planned and rehearsed situations they learn how to project their voice adequately for an audience and to use appropriate spoken language features such as sequence and past tense when recounting an event. When speaking, they recognise the need to rephrase statements to clarify meaning and information.Students develop skills in listening attentively during class and group discussions, and to factual spoken texts such as audio, film and invited presentations. They practise identifying the topic, retelling information accurately, asking clarifying questions, volunteering information and justifying opinions.

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VELS Learning

Focus Thinking

Processes Level 3

As students work towards the achievement of Level 3 standards in Thinking Processes, they explore aspects of their natural, constructed and social world, wondering and developing questions about it. They use a range of sources of information including observations and findings from their own investigations to answer these questions. Students develop strategies for organising and summarising information and reflecting on their thinking. They begin to categorise knowledge and ideas, identify patterns, and form generalisations. They learn to make connections between both new and established ideas and their own knowledge.With thinking tools to assist them, students begin to ask more focused and clarifying questions. They develop skills in collecting and organising ideas from a range of sources to construct knowledge. They learn to question the validity of sources, communicate and record their questions, responses and thoughts, and give reasons for conclusions.Students participate in a variety of investigations and activities involving problem solving that encourage them to experiment with a range of creative solutions. They begin to reflect on the approaches they use to assist them to form their solutions. They explore ideas creatively; for example, by engaging with new ideas and other perspectives.Students give reasons for changes that may occur in their thinking. They begin to recognise that others may have different opinions and understand that reasoning can be influenced by strong feelings. They begin to question arguments presented to them; for example, those based on the assertion that ‘everybody knows’ or ‘I just know’.Students develop language to describe specific thinking processes and, with support, use thinking tools to assist them to complete a given task. They continue to reflect regularly on their thinking, learning to describe their thinking processes verbally.

VELS Learning

Focus Personal Learning Level 3

As students work towards the achievement of Level 3 standards in Personal Learning, they begin to build on personal strengths by recognising strategies for learning which help them learn most effectively. With support, they use their past learning to inform their future learning, and begin to set learning improvement goals.Students participate in a diverse range of learning activities that allow them to acknowledge their development as learners. They monitor their learning through strategies such as share time and seeking feedback from the teacher and, where appropriate, their peers.Students learn to recognise the various positive and negative emotions that may be associated with their learning, and that feelings of uncertainty do not equate with an inability to complete a task. They explore the implications of impulsive behaviour and identify strategies they can use to manage impulsiveness, such as taking time to think about their opinions before giving them and considering alternative viewpoints before making a value judgment about an idea. They develop an awareness of their emotions and the capacity to use positive self-talk; for example, by compiling a list of strategies they can implement when they are feeling uncertain. Through reflection on their achievements across a range of tasks, they begin to understand the roles of persistence and effort in completing tasks. Students reflect on their own behaviour in the classroom and the personal values that inform those behaviours. They develop and respect protocols, such as codes of cooperation, that promote learning with peers. They begin to compare their own values with those agreed to by the class.Students reflect on their contribution to the creation of a positive learning culture in the classroom and recognise that they may learn with and from peers.With support, students develop strategies for managing their own learning, and identify the need for resource and time management in completing short tasks. They begin to use various tools, such as personal diaries and portfolios, to help them reflect on the effectiveness of the strategies they use in learning and in recording and commenting on task outcomes. They learn to set simple goals for future learning such as ‘to practise a specific skill’. They begin to review their work to check for accuracy.

VELS Learning

Focus Interpersona

l Learning Level 3

As students work towards the achievement of Level 3 standards in Interpersonal Development, they interact with their peers, older and younger students, and adults in both informal and formal contexts. They develop their skills and strategies for getting to know and understand others within increasingly complex situations. With teacher support, they identify different types of friendships and relationships. They discuss the expectations they have of friendship and relationship groups and acknowledge the expectations that others have of them. They recognise that relationships change and that positive relationships do not depend on always agreeing with one another.

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Students are encouraged to think about their values and how these affect their feelings and behaviour. They are supported to develop relationships based on respect and the valuing of individual differences; for example, speaking respectfully about others, listening and responding appropriately and encouraging others’ contributions. They learn to respect other students’ belongings and, when appropriate, to share their own.Students begin to explore the link between their feelings and their behaviour. They learn about empathy and use this to begin to respond to the needs of others. Using prompts and questions, they develop skills in giving and accepting constructive feedback; for example, praising or making suggestions for improvement.Students are introduced to a variety of strategies for dealing with conflict and bullying. By articulating the conflict to be resolved, they discuss options and outcomes and work with others to develop plans and procedures to reduce the possibility of conflict, avoid or resolve conflict.In teams, students work towards the achievement of agreed goals within a set timeframe. With teacher assistance, they develop awareness of their role in the team and responsibilities in various situations, and interact with others accordingly. Students begin to be aware that different points of view may be valid. Using provided criteria, they reflect on the effectiveness of the teams in which they participate.

AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM LEARNING FOCUS – SCIENCE LEVEL DESCRIPTION: Years 3 & 4The Science Inquiry Skills and Science as a Human Endeavour strands are described across a two-level band. In their planning, schools and teachers refer to the expectations outlined in the Achievement Standard and also to the content of the Science Understanding strand for the relevant level to ensure that these two strands are addressed over the two-level period. The three strands of the curriculum are interrelated and their content is taught in an integrated way. The order and detail in which the content descriptions are organised into teaching/learning programs are decisions to be made by the teacher.Over Levels 3 to 6, students develop their understanding of a range of systems operating at different time and geographic scales.In Level 3, students observe heat and its effects on solids and liquids and begin to develop an understanding of energy flows through simple systems. In observing day and night, they develop an appreciation of regular and predictable cycles. Students order their observations by grouping and classifying; in classifying things as living or non-living they begin to recognise that classifications are not always easy to define or apply. They begin to quantify their observations to enable comparison, and learn more sophisticated ways of identifying and representing relationships, including the use of tables and graphs to identify trends. They use their understanding of relationships between components of simple systems to make predictions.

In Level 4, students broaden their understanding of classification and form and function through an exploration of the properties of natural and processed materials. They learn that forces include non-contact forces and begin to appreciate that some interactions result from phenomena that can’t be seen with the naked eye. They begin to appreciate that current systems, such as Earth’s surface, have characteristics that have resulted from past changes and that living things form part of systems. They understand that some systems change in predictable ways, such as through cycles. They apply their knowledge to make predictions based on interactions within systems, including those involving the actions of humans.

AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM CONTENT DESCRIPTIONS AND ELABORATIONS – SCIENCE: Years 3 & 4

SCIENCE UNDERSTANDINGYear 3 Content Year 4 ContentBiological Science Elaborations Biological Science ElaborationsLiving things can be grouped on the basis of observable

recognising characteristics of living things such as growing, moving, sensitivity and reproducing

recognising the range of different living things

Living things have life cycles (ACSSU072)

making and recording observations of living things as they develop through their life cycles

describing the stages of life cycles of different

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features and can be distinguished from non-living things (ACSSU044)

sorting living and non-living things based on characteristics

exploring differences between living, once living and products of living things

living things such as insects, birds, frogs and flowering plants

comparing life cycles of animals and plants recognising that environmental factors can

affect life cycles such as fire and seed germination

Living things, including plants and animals, depend on each other and the environment to survive (ACSSU073)

investigating how plants provide shelter for animals

investigating the roles of living things in a habitat, for instance producers, consumers or decomposers

observing and describing predator-prey relationships

predicting the effects when living things in feeding relationships are removed or die out in an area

recognising that interactions between living things may be competitive or mutually beneficial

Chemical Science Elaborations Chemical Science ElaborationsA change of state between solid and liquid can be caused by adding or removing heat (ACSSU046)

investigating how liquids and solids respond to changes in temperature, for example water changing to ice, or melting chocolate

exploring how changes from solid to liquid and liquid to solid can help us recycle materials

predicting the effect of heat on different materials

Natural and processed materials have a range of physical properties; These properties can influence their use (ACSSU074)

describing a range of common materials, such as metals or plastics, and their uses

investigating a particular property across a range of materials

selecting materials for uses based on their properties

considering how the properties of materials affect the management of waste or can lead to pollution

Earth and space sciences

Elaborations Earth and space sciences

Elaborations

Earth’s rotation on its axis causes regular changes, including night and day (ACSSU048)

recognising the sun as a source of light constructing sundials and investigating how

they work describing timescales for the rotation of the

Earth modelling the relative sizes and movement of

the sun, Earth and moon

Earth’s surface changes over time as a result of natural processes and human activity (ACSSU075)

collecting evidence of change from local landforms, rocks or fossils

exploring a local area that has changed as a result of natural processes, such as an eroded gully, sand dunes or river banks

investigating the characteristics of soils considering how different human activities

cause erosion of the Earth’s surface considering the effect of events such as floods

and extreme weather on the landscape, both in Australia and in the Asia region

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Physical sciences Elaborations Physical sciences ElaborationsHeat can be produced in many ways and can move from one object to another (ACSSU049)

describing how heat can be produced such as through friction or motion, electricity or chemically (burning)

identifying changes that occur in everyday situations due to heating and cooling

exploring how heat can be transferred through conduction

recognising that we can feel heat and measure its effects using a thermometer

Forces can be exerted by one object on another through direct contact or from a distance (ACSSU076)

observing qualitatively how speed is affected by the size of a force

exploring how non-contact forces are similar to contact forces in terms of objects pushing and pulling another object

comparing and contrasting the effect of friction on different surfaces, such as tyres and shoes on a range of surfaces

investigating the effect of forces on the behaviour of an object through actions such as throwing, dropping, bouncing and rolling

exploring the forces of attraction and repulsion between magnets

SCIENCE AS A HUMAN ENDEAVOURYear 3 Content Year 4 ContentNature and development of science

Elaborations Nature and development of science

Elaborations

Science involves making predictions and describing patterns and relationships (ACSHE050)

making predictions about change and events in our environment

researching how knowledge of astronomy has been used by some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

considering how posing questions helps us plan for the future

Science involves making predictions and describing patterns and relationships (ACSHE061)

exploring ways in which scientists gather evidence for their ideas and develop explanations

considering how scientific practices such as sorting, classification and estimation are used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in everyday life

Use and influence of science

Elaborations Use and influence of science

Elaborations

Science knowledge helps people to understand the effect of their actions (ACSHE051)

considering how heating affects materials used in everyday life

investigating how science helps people such as nurses, doctors, dentists, mechanics and gardeners

considering how materials including solids and liquids affect the environment in different ways

deciding what characteristics make a material a pollutant

researching Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s knowledge of the local natural environment, such as the characteristics of plants and animals

Science knowledge helps people to understand the effect of their actions (ACSHE062)

investigating how a range of people, such as clothing designers, builders or engineers use science to select appropriate materials for their work

considering methods of waste management and how they can affect the environment

exploring how science has contributed to a discussion about an issue such as loss of habitat for living things or how human activity has changed the local environment

considering how to minimise the effects of erosion caused by human activity

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SCIENCE ENQUIRY SKILLSYear 3 Content Year 4 ContentQuestioning and predicting

Elaborations Questioning and predicting

Elaborations

With guidance, identify questions in familiar contexts that can be investigated scientifically and predict what might happen based on prior knowledge (ACSIS053)

choosing questions to investigate from a list of possibilities

jointly constructing questions that may form the basis for investigation

listing shared experiences as a whole class and identifying possible investigations

working in groups to discuss things that might happen during an investigation

With guidance, identify questions in familiar contexts that can be investigated scientifically and predict what might happen based on prior knowledge (ACSIS064)

considering familiar situations in order to think about possible areas for investigation

reflecting on familiar situations to make predictions with teacher guidance

choosing questions to investigate from a list of possibilities

Planning and conducting

Elaborations Planning and conducting

Elaborations

Suggest ways to plan and conduct investigations to find answers to questions (ACSIS054)

working with teacher guidance to plan investigations to test simple cause-and-effect relationships

discussing as a whole class ways to investigate questions and evaluating which ways might be most successful

Suggest ways to plan and conduct investigations to find answers to questions (ACSIS065)

exploring different ways to conduct investigations and connecting these to the types of questions asked with teacher guidance

working in groups, with teacher guidance, to plan ways to investigate questions

Safely use appropriate materials, tools or equipment to make and record observations, using formal measurements and digital technologies as appropriate (ACSIS055)

recording measurements using familiar formal units and appropriate abbreviations, such as seconds (s), grams (g), centimetres (cm)

using a variety of tools to make observations, such as digital cameras, thermometers, rulers and scales

discussing safety rules for equipment and procedures

Safely use appropriate materials, tools or equipment to make and record observations, using formal measurements and digital technologies as appropriate (ACSIS066)

discussing and recording safety rules for equipment as a whole class

making and recording measurements using familiar formal units and appropriate abbreviations, such as seconds (s), grams (g), centimetres (cm) and millilitres (mL)

Processing and analysing data and information

Elaborations Processing and analysing data and information

Elaborations

Use a range of methods including tables and simple column graphs to represent data and

using provided tables to organise materials and objects based on observable properties

discussing how to graph data presented in a table

identifying and discussing numerical and visual

Use a range of methods including tables and simple column graphs to represent data and

identifying and discussing numerical and visual patterns in data collected from students' investigations and from other sources

using provided graphic organisers to sort and represent information

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to identify patterns and trends (ACSIS057)

patterns in data collected from students' own investigations and from secondary sources

to identify patterns and trends (ACSIS068)

discussing with teacher guidance which graphic organisers will be most useful in sorting or organising data arising from investigations

Compare results with predictions, suggesting possible reasons for findings (ACSIS215)

discussing how well predictions matched results from an investigation and sharing ideas about what was learnt

Compare results with predictions, suggesting possible reasons for findings (ACSIS216)

discussing how well predictions matched results from an investigation and proposing reasons for findings

comparing, in small groups, proposed reasons for findings and explaining their reasoning

Evaluating Elaborations Evaluating ElaborationsReflect on the investigation, including whether a test was fair or not (ACSIS058)

describing experiences of carrying out investigations to the teacher, small group or whole class

discussing as a whole class the idea of fairness in testing

Reflect on the investigation; including whether a test was fair or not (ACSIS069)

reflecting on investigations, identifying what went well, what was difficult or didn't work so well, and how well the investigation helped answer the question

discussing which aspects of the investigation helped improve fairness, and any aspects that weren't fair

Communicating Elaborations Communicating ElaborationsRepresent and communicate ideas and findings in a variety of ways such as diagrams, physical representations and simple reports (ACSIS060)

communicating with other students carrying out similar investigations to share experiences and improve investigation skill

exploring different ways to show processes and relationships through diagrams, models and role play

using simple explanations and arguments, reports or graphical representations to communicate ideas to other students

Represent and communicate ideas and findings in a variety of ways such as diagrams, physical representations and simple reports (ACSIS071)

communicating with other students carrying out similar investigations to share experiences and improve investigation skills

using simple explanations and arguments, reports or graphical representations to communicate ideas to other students

AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM ENGLISH LEVEL DESCRIPTION Years 3 & 4The English curriculum is built around the three interrelated strands of Language, Literature and Literacy. Teaching and learning programs should balance and integrate all three strands. Together the strands focus on developing students’ knowledge, understanding and skills in listening, reading, viewing, speaking, writing and creating. Learning in English builds on concepts, skills and processes developed in earlier levels, and teachers will revisit and strengthen these as needed.The range of literary texts for Foundation to Level 10 comprises Australian literature, including the oral narrative traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as well as the contemporary literature of these two cultural groups, and classic and contemporary world literature, including texts from and about Asia.Students create a range of imaginative, informative and persuasive types of texts including narratives, procedures, performances, reports, reviews, poetry and expositions.Australian Curriculum English Level Description Year 3 Australian Curriculum English Level Description Year 4

In Levels 3 and 4, students communicate with peers and teachers from other classes and schools in a range of face-to-face and online/virtual

In Levels 3 and 4, students experience learning in familiar contexts and a range of contexts that relate to study in other areas of the curriculum. They

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environments.

Students engage with a variety of texts for enjoyment. They listen to, read, view and interpret spoken, written and multimodal texts in which the primary purpose is to entertain, as well as texts designed to inform and persuade. These encompass traditional oral texts including picture books, various types of print and digital texts, simple chapter books, rhyming verse, poetry, non-fiction film, multimodal texts, dramatic performances, and texts used by students as models for constructing their own work.

Literary texts that support and extend students in Levels 3 and 4 as independent readers describe complex sequences of events that extend over several pages and involve unusual happenings within a framework of familiar experiences. Informative texts present new content about topics of interest and topics being studied in other areas of the curriculum. These texts use complex language features, including varied sentence structures, some unfamiliar vocabulary, a significant number of high-frequency sight words and words that need to be decoded phonically, and a range of punctuation conventions, as well as illustrations and diagrams that both support and extend the printed text.

interact with peers and teachers from other classes and schools in a range of face-to-face and online/virtual environments.Students engage with a variety of texts for enjoyment. They listen to, read, view and interpret spoken, written and multimodal texts in which the primary purpose is aesthetic, as well as texts designed to inform and persuade. These encompass traditional oral texts including Aboriginal stories, picture books, various types of print and digital texts, simple chapter books, rhyming verse, poetry, non-fiction, film, multimodal texts, dramatic performances, and texts used by students as models for constructing their own work.Literary texts that support and extend students in Levels 3 and 4 as independent readers describe complex sequences of events that extend over several pages and involve unusual happenings within a framework of familiar experiences. Informative texts present new content about topics of interest and topics being studied in other areas of the curriculum. These texts use complex language features, including varied sentence structures, some unfamiliar vocabulary, a significant number of high-frequency sight words and words that need to be decoded phonically, and a variety of punctuation conventions, as well as illustrations and diagrams that both support and extend the printed text.

AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM CONTENT DESCRIPTIONS AND ELABORATIONS – ENGLISH: Years 3 & 4

READING AND VIEWINGNB In AusVELS, some content and its elaborations have been moved out of the Literature strand in the AC where it belongs and into Language or

Literacy. Where a school supports Literacy development by staffing a Library with a specialist teacher-librarian, these aspects should be taught as part of a sequential Literature program within Library lessons.

Year 3 Content Year 4 ContentLanguage Elaborations Language ElaborationsUnderstand how different types of texts vary in use of language choices, depending on their function and purpose, for example tense, mood, and types of sentences (ACELA1478)

becoming familiar with typical structural stages and language features of various types of text, for example narratives, procedures, reports, reviews and expositions

Understand how texts vary in complexity and technicality depending on the approach to the topic, the purpose and the intended audience (ACELA1490)

becoming familiar with the typical stages and language features of such text types as: simple narrative, procedure, simple persuasion texts and information reports

Identify the features becoming familiar with the typical features of Identify features of participating in online searches for information

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of online texts that enhance navigation (ACELA1790)

online texts, for example navigation bars and buttons, hyperlinks and sitemaps

online texts that enhance readability including text, navigation, links, graphics and layout (ACELA1793)

using navigation tools and discussing similarities and differences between print and digital information

Identify the effect on audiences of techniques, for example shot size, vertical camera angle and layout in picture books, advertisements and film segments (ACELA1483)

noting how the relationship between characters can be depicted in illustrations through: the positioning of the characters (for example facing each other or facing away from each other); the distance between them; the relative size; one character looking up (or down) at the other (power relationships); facial expressions and body gesture

observing how images construct a relationship with the viewer through such strategies as: direct gaze into the viewer's eyes, inviting involvement and how close ups are more engaging than distanced images, which can suggest alienation or loneliness

Explore the effect of choices when framing an image, placement of elements in the image, and salience on composition of still and moving images in a range of types of texts (ACELA1496)

examining visual and multimodal texts, building a vocabulary to describe visual elements and techniques such as framing, composition and visual point of view and beginning to understand how these choices impact on viewer response

Recognise high frequency sight words (ACELA1486)

becoming familiar with most high-frequency sight words

Understand how adverbials (adverbs and prepositional phrases) work in different ways to provide circumstantial details about an activity (ACELA1495)

investigating in texts how adverbial phrases and clauses can add significance to an action, for example ‘more desperately’, ‘he rose quietly and gingerly moved’

Investigate how quoted (direct) and reported (indirect) speech work in different types of text (ACELA1494)

investigating examples of quoted (direct) speech (‘He said, “I’ll go to the park today”’) and reported (indirect) speech (‘He told me he was going to the park today’) and comparing similarities and differences

Literature Elaborations Literature ElaborationsDraw connections between personal experiences and the worlds of texts, and share responses with others

discussing relevant prior knowledge and past experiences to make meaningful connections to the people, places, events, issues and ideas in the text

exploring texts that highlight issues and problems in making moral decisions and

Discuss how authors and illustrators make stories exciting, moving and absorbing and hold

examining the author’s description of a character’s appearance, behaviour and speech and noting how the character’s development is evident through his or her dialogue and changing relationships and the reactions of other characters to him or her

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(ACELT1596) discussing these with others drawing on literature from Aboriginal, Torres

Strait Islander or Asian cultures, to explore commonalities of experience and ideas as well as recognising difference in lifestyle and world view

readers’ interest by using various techniques, for example character development and plot tension (ACELT1605)

identifying pivotal points in the plot where characters are faced with choices and commenting on how the author makes us care about their decisions and consequences

Develop criteria for establishing personal preferences for literature (ACELT1598)

building a conscious understanding of preference regarding topics and genres of personal interest (for example humorous short stories, school and family stories, mysteries, fantasy and quest, series books)

selecting and discussing favourite texts and explaining their reasons for assigning greater or lesser merit to particular texts or types of texts

Make connections between the ways different authors may represent similar storylines, ideas and relationships (ACELT1602)

commenting on how authors have established setting and period in different cultures and times and the relevance of characters, actions and beliefs to their own time

comparing different authors’ treatment of similar themes and text patterns, for example comparing fables and allegories from different cultures and quest novels by different authors

Discuss how language is used to describe the settings in texts, and explore how the settings shape the events and influence the mood of the narrative (ACELT1599)

identifying and discussing the use of descriptive adjectives (‘in the middle of a vast, bare plain’) to establish setting and atmosphere (‘the castle loomed dark and forbidding’) and to draw readers into events that follow

discussing the language used to describe the traits of characters in stories, their actions and motivations: ‘Claire was so lonely; she desperately wanted a pet and she was afraid she would do anything, just anything, to have one to care for’

Understand, interpret and experiment with a range of devices and deliberate word play in poetry and other literary texts, for example nonsense words, spoonerisms, neologisms and puns (ACELT1606)

defining spoonerisms, neologisms and puns and exploring how they are used by authors to create a sense of freshness, originality and playfulness

discussing poetic language, including unusual adjectival use and how it engages us emotionally and brings to life the poet’s subject matter (for example ‘He grasps the crag with crooked hands’/wee timorous beastie)

Discuss the nature and effects of some language devices used to enhance meaning and shape the reader’s reaction, including rhythm and onomatopoeia in poetry and prose (ACELT1600)

identifying the effect of imagery in texts, for example the use of imagery related to nature in haiku poems

exploring how rhythm, onomatopoeia and alliteration give momentum to poetry and prose read aloud, and enhance enjoyment

Use metalanguage to describe the effects of ideas, text structures and language features of literary texts (ACELT1604)

examining the author’s description of a character’s appearance, behaviour and speech and noting how the character’s development is evident through his or her dialogue and changing relationships and the reactions of other characters to him or her

sharing views using appropriate metalanguage (for example ‘The use of the adjectives in describing the character really helps to create images for the reader’)

Literacy Elaborations Literacy ElaborationsIdentify the point of view in a text and suggest alternative points of view

discussing how a text presents the point of view of the main character, and speculating on what other characters might think or feel

recognising that there is more than one way of

Identify and explain language features of texts from earlier times and compare

viewing documentaries and news footage from different periods, comparing the style of presentation, including costumes and iconography with contemporary texts on similar

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(ACELY1675) looking at the same event and that stories seen through the eyes of one character privileges some aspects of the story over others

speculating about what other characters might think or feel and retelling the story from other perspectives (for example ‘Cinderella’ from the view of the ‘Ugly Sisters’)

with the vocabulary, images, layout and content of contemporary texts (ACELY1686)

topics and tracking changing views on issues, for example war, race, gender

Identify the audience and purpose of imaginative, informative and persuasive texts (ACELY1678)

identifying the author’s point of view on a topic and key words and images that seem intended to persuade listeners, viewers or readers to agree with the view presented

Identify characteristic features used in imaginative, informative and persuasive texts to meet the purpose of the text (ACELY1690)

describing the language which authors use to create imaginary worlds; how textual features such as headings, subheadings, bold type and graphic organisers are used to order and present information, and how visual codes are used, for example those used in advertising to represent children and families so that viewers identify with them

Read an increasing range of different types of texts by combining contextual, semantic, grammatical and phonic knowledge, using text processing strategies, for example monitoring, predicting, confirming, rereading, reading on and self-correcting (ACELY1679)

combining different types of knowledge (for example world knowledge, vocabulary, grammar, phonics) to make decisions about unknown words, reading on, reviewing and summarising meaning

analysing the way illustrations help to construct meaning and interpreting different types of illustrations and graphics

reading text types from a student’s culture to enhance confidence in building reading strategies

reading aloud with fluency and intonation reading a wider range of texts, including chapter

books and informative texts, for pleasure

Read different types of texts by combining contextual , semantic, grammatical and phonic knowledge using text processing strategies for example monitoring meaning, cross checking and reviewing (ACELY1691)

reading new and different kinds of texts with the use of established word identification strategies, including knowledge of the topic and of text type together with self monitoring strategies; including rereading, self questioning and pausing, and including self correction strategies such confirming and cross-checking

reading aloud with fluency and expression reading a wide range of different types of texts

for pleasure

Use comprehension strategies to build literal and inferred meaning and begin to evaluate texts by drawing on a growing knowledge of context, text

making connections between the text and students own experience and other texts

making connections between the information in print and images

making predictions and asking and answering questions about the text drawing on knowledge of the topic, subject-specific vocabulary and experience of texts on the same topic

Use comprehension strategies to build literal and inferred meaning to expand content knowledge, integrating and linking ideas and

making connections between the text and students’ own experience and other texts

making connections between information in print and images

building and using prior knowledge and vocabulary

finding specific literal information asking and answering questions

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structures and language features (ACELY1680)

using text features and search tools to locate information in written and digital texts efficiently

determining important ideas, events or details in texts commenting on things learned or questions raised by reading, referring explicitly to the text for verification

making considered inferences taking into account topic knowledge or a character’s likely actions and feelings

analysing and evaluating texts (ACELY1692)

creating mental images finding the main idea of a text inferring meaning from the ways communication

occurs in digital environments including the interplay between words, images, and sounds

bringing subject and technical vocabulary and concept knowledge to new reading tasks, selecting and using texts for their pertinence to the task and the accuracy of their information

WRITING

Year 3 Content Year 4 ContentLanguage Elaborations Language ElaborationsUnderstand that paragraphs are a key organisational feature of written texts (ACELA1479)

noticing how longer texts are organised into paragraphs, each beginning with a topic sentence/paragraph opener which predicts how the paragraph will develop and is then elaborated in various ways

Understand how texts are made cohesive through the use of linking devices including pronoun reference and text connectives (ACELA1491)

knowing how authors construct texts that are cohesive and coherent through the use of: pronouns that link back to something previously mentioned; determiners (for example ‘this’, ‘that’, ‘these’, ‘those’, ‘the’, ‘his’, ‘their’); text connectives that create links between sentences (for example ‘however’, ‘therefore’, ‘nevertheless’, ‘in addition’, ‘by contrast’, ‘in summary’)

identifying how a topic is described throughout a text by tracking noun groups and pronouns

describing how texts connectives link sections of a text providing sequences through time, for example ‘firstly’, ‘then’, ‘next’, and ‘finally’

Understand that a clause is a unit of meaning usually containing a subject and a verb and that these need to be in agreement (ACELA1481)

knowing that a clause is basically a group of words that contains a verb

knowing that, in terms of meaning, a basic clause represents: what is happening; who or what is participating, and the surrounding circumstances

Understand that the meaning of sentences can be enriched through the use of noun and verb groups and prepositional phrases (ACELA1493)

creating richer, more specific descriptions through the use of noun groups (for example in narrative texts, 'Their very old Siamese cat'; in reports, 'Its extremely high mountain ranges'

Understand that verbs represent different processes (doing, thinking, saying, and relating)

identifying different types of verbs and the way they add meaning to a sentence

exploring action and saying verbs in narrative texts to show how they give information about what characters do and say

Incorporate new vocabulary from a range of sources into students’ own texts including

building etymological knowledge about word origins (for example 'thermometer') and building vocabulary from research about technical and subject specific topics

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and that these processes are anchored in time through tense (ACELA1482)

exploring the use of sensing verbs and how they allow readers to know what characters think and feel

exploring the use of relating verbs in constructing definitions and descriptions

learning how time is represented through the tense of a verb and other structural, language and visual features

vocabulary encountered in research (ACELA1498)

Understand how to use sound–letter relationships and knowledge of spelling rules, compound words, prefixes, suffixes, morphemes and less common letter combinations, for example ‘tion’ (ACELA1485)

using spelling strategies such as: phonological knowledge (for example diphthongs and other ambiguous vowel sounds in more complex words); three-letter clusters (for example 'thr', 'shr', 'squ'); visual knowledge (for example more complex single syllable homophones such as 'break/brake', 'ate/eight'); morphemic knowledge (for example inflectional endings in single syllable words, plural and past tense); generalisations (for example to make a word plural when it ends in 's', 'sh', 'ch', or 'z' add 'es')

Understand how to use strategies for spelling words, including spelling rules, knowledge of morphemic word families, spelling generalisations, and letter combinations including double letters (ACELA1779)

using phonological knowledge (for example long vowel patterns in multi-syllabic words); consonant clusters (for example 'straight', 'throat', 'screen', 'squawk')

using visual knowledge (for example diphthongs in more complex words and other ambiguous vowel sounds, as in 'oy', 'oi', 'ou', 'ow', 'ould', 'u', 'ough', 'au', 'aw'); silent beginning consonant patterns (for example 'gn' and 'kn')

applying generalisations, for example doubling (for example 'running'); 'e'-drop (for example 'hoping')

Know that word contractions are a feature of informal language and that apostrophes of contraction are used to signal missing letters (ACELA1480)

recognising both grammatically accurate and inaccurate usage of the apostrophe in everyday texts such as signs in the community and newspaper advertisements

Recognise homophones and know how to use context to identify correct spelling (ACELA1780)

using meaning and context when spelling words (for example when differentiating between homophones such as ‘to’, ‘too’, ‘two’

Recognise how quotation marks are used in texts to signal dialogue, titles and reported speech (ACELA1492)

exploring texts to identify the use of quotation marks

experimenting with the use of quotation marks in students’ own writing

Literature Elaborations Literature ElaborationsCreate imaginative texts based on characters, settings and events from students’ own and other cultures using

drawing on literary texts read, viewed and listened to for inspiration and ideas, appropriating language to create mood and characterisation

innovating on texts read, viewed and listened to by changing the point of view, revising an

Create literary texts by developing storylines, characters and settings (ACELT1794)

collaboratively plan, compose, sequence and prepare a literary text along a familiar storyline, using film, sound and images to convey setting, characters and points of drama in the plot

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visual features, for example perspective, distance and angle (ACELT1601)

ending or creating a sequel

Create texts that adapt language features and patterns encountered in literary texts, for example characterisation, rhyme, rhythm, mood, music, sound effects and dialogue (ACELT1791)

creating visual and multimodal texts based on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander or Asian literature, applying one or more visual elements to convey the intent of the original text

creating multimodal texts that combine visual images, sound effects, music and voice overs to convey settings and events in a fantasy world

Create literary texts that explore students’ own experiences and imagining (ACELT1607)

drawing upon literary texts students have encountered and experimenting with changing particular aspects, for example the time or place of the setting, adding characters or changing their personalities, or offering an alternative point of view on key ideas

Literacy Elaborations Literacy ElaborationsPlan, draft and publish imaginative, informative and persuasive texts demonstrating increasing control over text structures and language features and selecting print,and multimodal elements appropriate to the audience and purpose (ACELY1682)

using print and digital resources to gather information about a topic

selecting appropriate text structure for a writing purpose and sequencing content for clarity and audience impact

using appropriate simple, compound and complex sentences to express and combine ideas

using vocabulary, including technical vocabulary, relevant to the text type and purpose, and appropriate sentence structures to express and combine ideas

Plan, draft and publish imaginative, informative and persuasive texts containing key information and supporting details for a widening range of audiences, demonstrating increasing control over text structures and language features (ACELY1694)

using research from print and digital resources to gather ideas, integrating information from a range of sources; selecting text structure and planning how to group ideas into paragraphs to sequence content, and choosing vocabulary to suit topic and communication purpose

using appropriate simple, compound and complex sentences to express and combine ideas

using grammatical features effectively including different types of verbs, adverbials and noun groups for lengthier descriptions

Reread and edit texts for meaning, appropriate structure, grammatical choices and punctuation (ACELY1683)

using glossaries, print and digital dictionaries and spell check to edit spelling, realising that spell check accuracy depends on understanding the word function, for example there/their; rain/reign

Reread and edit for meaning by adding, deleting or moving words or word groups to improve content and structure (ACELY1695)

revising written texts: editing for grammatical and spelling accuracy and clarity of the text, to improve the connection between ideas and the overall flow of the piece

Write using joined letters that are

practising how to join letters to construct a fluent handwriting style

Write using clearly-formed joined

using handwriting fluency with speed for a wide

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clearly formed and consistent in size (ACELY1684)

letters, and develop increased fluency and automaticity (ACELY1696)

range of tasks

Use software including word processing programs with growing speed and efficiency to construct and edit texts featuring visual, print and audio elements (ACELY1685)

using features of relevant technologies to plan, sequence, compose and edit multimodal texts

Use a range of software including word processing programs to construct, edit and publish written text, and select, edit and place visual, print and audio elements (ACELY1697)

identifying and selecting appropriate software programs for constructing text

SPEAKING AND LISTENING

Year 3 Content Year 4 ContentLanguage Elaborations Language ElaborationsUnderstand that languages have different written and visual communication systems, different oral traditions and different ways of constructing meaning (ACELA1475)

learning that a word or sign can carry different weight in different cultural contexts, for example that particular respect is due to some people and creatures and that stories can be passed on to teach us how to live appropriately

Understand that Standard Australian English is one of many social dialects used in Australia, and that while it originated in England it has been influenced by many other languages (ACELA1487)

identifying words used in Standard Australian English that are derived from other languages, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages, and determining if the original meaning is reflected in English usage, for example kangaroo, tsunami, typhoon, amok, orang-utan

identifying commonly used words derived from other cultures

Understand that successful cooperation with others depends on shared use of social conventions, including turn-taking patterns, and forms of address that vary according to the degree of formality

identifying roles and collaborative patterns in students’ own groups and pair work (for example initiating a topic, changing a topic through negotiation, affirming other speakers and building on their comments, asking relevant questions, providing useful feedback, prompting and checking individual and group understanding)

Understand that social interactions influence the way people engage with ideas and respond to others for example when exploring and clarifying the ideas of others, summarising

recognising that we can use language differently with our friends and families, but that Standard Australian English is typically used in written school texts and more formal contexts

recognising that language is adjusted in different contexts, for example in degree of formality when moving between group discussions and presenting a group report

understanding how age, status, expertise and familiarity influence the ways in which we interact with people and how these codes and

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in social situations (ACELA1476)

students' own views and reporting them to a larger group (ACELA1488)

conventions vary across cultures recognising the importance of using inclusive

language

Examine how evaluative language can be varied to be more or less forceful (ACELA1477)

exploring how modal verbs, for example ‘must’, ‘might’,’ or ‘could’ indicate degrees of certainty, command or obligation

distinguishing how choice of adverbs, nouns and verbs present different evaluations of characters in texts

Understand differences between the language of opinion and feeling and the language of factual reporting or recording (ACELA1489)

identifying ways thinking verbs are used to express opinion, for example ‘I think’, ‘I believe’, and ways summary verbs are used to report findings, for example ‘we concluded’

Learn extended and technical vocabulary and ways of expressing opinion including modal verbs and adverbs (ACELA1484)

exploring examples of language which demonstrate a range of feelings and positions, and building a vocabulary to express judgments about characters or events, acknowledging that language and judgments might differ depending on the cultural context

Literature Elaborations Literature ElaborationsDiscuss texts in which characters, events and settings are portrayed in different ways, and speculate on the authors’ reasons (ACELT1594)

reading texts in which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children/ young people are the central characters/protagonists and making links to students’ own lives, noting similarities

exploring the ways that the same story can be told in many cultures, identifying variations in the storyline and in music (for example ‘The Ramayana’ story which is told to children in India, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Burma, Laos, Tibet and Malaysia)

Discuss literary experiences with others, sharing responses and expressing a point of view (ACELT1603)

sharing and discussing students’ own and others’ understanding of the effects of particular literary techniques on their appreciation of texts

drawing comparisons between multiple texts and students’ own experiences. Commenting orally, in written form and in digital reviews on aspects such as: 'Do I recognise this in my own world?'; 'How is this text similar to or different from other texts I’ve read?'; 'How common is it to human experience in the real world?'; 'What new ideas does it bring?'; ’How do they fit with what I believe?'

Literacy Elaborations Literacy ElaborationsListen to and contribute to conversations and discussions to share information and ideas and negotiate in collaborative situations

participating in collaborative discussions, building on and connecting ideas and opinions expressed by others, and checking students’ own understanding against group views

Interpret ideas and information in spoken texts and listen for key points in order to carry out tasks and use information to share and extend ideas

making notes about a task, asking questions to clarify or follow up information, and seeking assistance if required

discussing levels of language — slang, colloquial (everyday) and formal language — and how their appropriateness changes with the situation and audience. Presenting ideas and

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(ACELY1676) and information (ACELY1687)

opinions at levels of formality appropriate to the context and audience

Use interaction skills, including active listening behaviours and communicate in a clear, coherent manner using a variety of everyday and learned vocabulary and appropriate tone, pace, pitch and volume (ACELY1792)

participating in pair, group and class speaking and listening situations, including informal conversations, class discussions and presentations

listening actively including listening for specific information, recognising the value of others’ contributions and responding through comments, recounts and summaries of information

learning the specific speaking or listening skills of different group roles, for example group leader, note taker and reporter

acquiring new vocabulary in all curriculum areas through listening, reading, viewing and discussion and using this vocabulary in specific ways such as describing people, places, things and processes

using language appropriately in different situations such as making a request of a teacher, explaining a procedure to a classmate, engaging in a game with friends

experimenting with voice effects in formal presentations such as tone, volume and pace

Use interaction skills such as acknowledging another’s point of view and linking students’ response to the topic, using familiar and new vocabulary and a range of vocal effects such as tone, pace, pitch and volume to speak clearly and coherently (ACELY1688)

participating in pair, group, class and school speaking and listening situations, including informal conversations, class discussions and presentations

developing appropriate speaking and listening behaviours including acknowledging and extending others’ contributions, presenting ideas and opinions clearly and coherently

choosing a variety of appropriate words and prepositional phrases, including descriptive words and some technical vocabulary, to communicate meaning accurately

exploring the effects of changing voice tone, volume, pitch and pace in formal and informal contexts

Plan and deliver short presentations, providing some key details in logical sequence (ACELY1677)

drawing on relevant research into a topic to prepare an oral or multimodal presentation, using devices such as storyboards to plan the sequence of ideas and information

Plan, rehearse and deliver presentations incorporating learned content and taking into account the particular purposes and audiences (ACELY1689)

reporting on a topic in an organised manner, providing relevant facts and descriptive detail to enhance audience understanding, and beginning to refer to reliable sources to support claims

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AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM PRIORITIES

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Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander

histories and cultures

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are strong, rich and diverse. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Identity is central to this priority and is intrinsically linked to living, learning Aboriginal and Torres Strait I slander communities, deep knowledge traditions and holistic world view.A conceptual framework based on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ unique sense of Identity has been developed as a structural tool for the embedding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures within the Australian curriculum. This sense of Identity is approached through the interconnected aspects of Country/Place, People and Culture. Embracing these elements enhances all areas of the curriculum.The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander priority provides opportunities for all learners to deepen their knowledge of Australia by engaging with the world’s oldest continuous living cultures. This knowledge and understanding will enrich their ability to participate positively in the ongoing development of Australia.The Australian Curriculum: mathematics values Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures. It provides opportunities for students to appreciate that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander societies have sophisticated applications of mathematical concepts.Students will explore connections between representations of number and pattern and how they relate to aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. They will investigate time, place, relationships and measurement concepts in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander contexts. Students will deepen their understanding of the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples through the application and evaluation of statistical data.

Asia and Australia’s

Engagement with Asia

The Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia priority provides a regional context for learning in all areas of the curriculum. China, India and other Asian nations are growing rapidly and the power and influence they have in all areas of global endeavour is extensive. An understanding of Asia underpins the capacity of Australian students to be active and informed citizens working together to build harmonious local, regional and global communities, and build Australia’s social, intellectual and creative capital.This priority is concerned with Asia literacy for all Australian students. Asia literacy develops knowledge, skills and understanding about the histories, geographies, cultures, arts, literatures and languages of the diverse countries of our region. It fosters social inclusion in the Australian community. It enables students to communicate and engage with the peoples of Asia so they can effectively live, work and learn in the region.Australia now has extensive engagement with Asia in areas such as trade, investment, immigration, tourism, education and humanitarian assistance and this engagement is vital to the prosperity of all Australians.The Australian Curriculum: mathematics provides opportunities for students to learn about the understandings and applications of mathematics in Asia. In the past, mathematicians from the Asia region have made significant contributions to the development of the human understanding of number, algebra and trigonometry.Mathematicians from Asia continue to contribute to the ongoing development of mathematical understanding. In this learning area, students investigate the concept of chance using Asian games. They explore the way Asian societies apply other mathematical concepts such as patterns and symmetry in art and architecture. Investigations involving data collection and representation can be used to examine issues pertinent to the Asia region.

Sustainability

Sustainability addresses the ongoing capacity of Earth to maintain all life.Sustainable patterns of living meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Actions to improve sustainability are both individual and collective endeavours shared across local and global communities. They necessitate a renewed and balanced approach to the way humans interact with each other and the environment.Education for sustainability develops the knowledge, skills and values necessary for people to act in ways that contribute to more sustainable patterns of living. It is futures-oriented, focusing on protecting environments and creating a more ecologically and socially just world through action that recognises the relevance and interdependence of environmental, social, cultural and economic considerations.The Australian Curriculum: mathematics provides the foundation for the exploration of issues of sustainability. It equips students with

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the skills of measurement, mathematical modelling, and data collection, representation and analysis. These skills are needed to investigate data, evaluate and communicate findings and to make predictions based on those findings.Mathematical understandings and skills are necessary to monitor and quantify both the impact of human activity on ecosystems and changes to conditions in the biosphere. Actions to improve sustainability involve students in processes such as auditing, reading measures and gauges, and interpreting data on invoices and accounts. Mathematical and statistical analysis enables informed decision making about present and future action.Learning in mathematics involves the use of knowledge and skills learnt in other areas, particularly in English, science and history.The Australian National Numeracy Review Report (2008) identified numeracy as requiring an across-the-school commitment, including mathematical, strategic and contextual aspects. This across-the-school commitment can be managed by including specific references to other curriculum areas in the mathematics curriculum, and the identification of key numeracy capacities in the descriptions of other curriculum areas being developed. For example, the following are some of the numeracy perspectives that could be relevant to English, science and history.

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ACHIEVEMENT STANDARDS

VICTORIAN ESSENTIAL LEARNING STANDARDS (VELS) ACHIEVEMENT STANDARDS

VELS Science StandardsYears 3 & 4

Science knowledge and understandingAt Level 3, students classify a range of materials such as solids, liquids and gases according to observable properties, and demonstrate understanding that this system of classification of substances is sometimes problematic. Students describe examples of reversible and non-reversible changes in substances.Students identify the actions of forces in everyday situations. They use the words push and pull in discussing how things can be moved and stopped. They identify forms of energy and energy transformations in the everyday world. They use appropriate scientific vocabulary to describe and explain their observations and investigations.Students identify and describe the structural features of living things, including plants and animals. They identify how these features operate together to form systems which support living things to survive in their environments. They distinguish between biotic and abiotic factors in their environment and describe interactions that occur between them. They describe natural physical and biological conditions, and human influences in the environment, which affect the survival of living things. They describe the relationship between day and night and the rotation of the Earth. Students explain how features of the landscape are altered by processes of weathering and erosion.Science at workAt Level 3, students plan, design, conduct and report collaboratively on experiments related to their questions about living and non-living things and events. They select and use simple measuring equipment, use a range of appropriate methods to record observations, and comment on trends. They describe the concept of a fair test and identify the variables associated with an experiment. They develop fair tests to make comparisons and explain how they have controlled experimental variables.Students describe safety requirements and procedures associated with experiments. They explain how scientific knowledge is used, or could be used, to solve a social issue or problem. They describe aspects of the work of scientists and how this has contributed to science knowledge.

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VELS English Standards Years 3 & 4Speaking and listening Standard Level 3At Level 3, students vary their speaking and listening for a small range of contexts, purposes and audiences. They project their voice adequately for an audience, use appropriate spoken language features, and modify spoken texts to clarify meaning and information.They listen attentively to spoken texts, including factual texts, and identify the topic, retell information accurately, ask clarifying questions, volunteer information and justify opinions.Reading Standard Level 3At Level 3, students read and respond to an increasing range of imaginative and informative texts with some unfamiliar ideas and information, vocabulary and textual features. They interpret the main ideas and purpose of texts. They make inferences from imaginative text about plot and setting and about characters’ qualities, motives and actions. They infer meaning from material presented in informative texts. They identify how language is used to represent information, characters, people, places and events in different ways including identification of some simple symbolic meanings and stereotypes. They use several strategies to locate, select and record key information from texts.Writing Standard Level 3At Level 3, students write texts containing several logically ordered paragraphs that express opinions and include ideas and information about familiar topics. They write narratives which include characters, setting and plot. They order information and sequence events using some detail or illustrative evidence, and they express a point of view providing some information and supporting detail. They combine verbal and visual elements in the texts they produce. They meet the needs of audiences by including appropriate background information.They write a variety of simple and compound sentences and use verb tenses correctly. They use punctuation to support meaning, including exclamation marks and quotation marks, and accurately use full stops, commas and question marks. They use vocabulary appropriate to context and spell most one- and two-syllable words with regular spelling patterns, and frequently used words which have less regular spelling patterns. They use sound and visual patterns when attempting to spell unfamiliar words.

VELS Thinking Processes Standards Years 3 & 4

Reasoning, processing and inquiryAt Level 3, students collect information from a range of sources to answer their own and others’ questions. They question the validity of sources when appropriate. They apply thinking strategies to organise information and concepts in a variety of contexts, including problem solving activities. They provide reasons for their conclusions.CreativityAt Level 3, students apply creative ideas in practical ways and test the possibilities of ideas they generate. They use open-ended questioning and integrate available information to explore ideas.Reflection, evaluation and metacognitionAt Level 3, students identify strategies they use to organise their ideas, and use appropriate language to explain their thinking. They identify and provide reasons for their point of view, and justify changes in their thinking.

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VELS Personal Learning Standards Years 3 & 4

The individual learnerAt Level 3, students describe the factors that affect learning and identify strategies that will enhance their own learning. With support, they identify their learning strengths and weaknesses and learning habits that improve learning outcomes. They seek teacher feedback to develop their content knowledge and understanding. They make and justify some decisions about their learning and, with support, set learning improvement goals. They contribute to the development of protocols that create a positive learning environment in the classroom.Managing personal learningAt Level 3, students set short-term, achievable goals in relation to specific tasks. They complete short tasks by planning and allocating appropriate time and resources. They undertake some multi-step, extended tasks independently. They comment on task progress and achievements. They manage their feelings in pursuit of goals and demonstrate a positive attitude towards their learning.

VELS Interpersonal Learning Standards Years 3 & 4Building social relationshipsAt Level 3, students demonstrate respect for others and exhibit appropriate behaviour for maintaining friendships with other people. They support each other by sharing ideas and materials, offering assistance, giving appropriate feedback and acknowledging individual differences. They work with others to reduce, avoid and resolve conflict.Working in teamsAt Level 3, students cooperate with others in teams for agreed purposes, taking roles and following guidelines established within the task. They describe and evaluate their own contribution and the team’s progress towards the achievement of agreed goals.

AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM ACHIEVEMENT STANDARDS – SCIENCEAUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM SCIENCE Years 3 & 4

Year 3 Science achievement standardBy the end of Level 3, students use their understanding of the movement of the Earth, materials and the behaviour of heat to suggest explanations for everyday observations They describe features common to living things. They describe how they can use science investigations to respond to questions and identify where people use science knowledge in their lives.Students use their experiences to pose questions and predict the outcomes of investigations. They make formal measurements and follow procedures to collect and present observations in a way that helps to answer the investigation questions. Students suggest possible reasons for their findings. They describe how safety and fairness were considered in their investigations. They use diagrams and other representations to communicate their ideas.

Year 4 Science achievement standardBy the end of Level 4, students apply the observable properties of materials to explain how objects and materials can be used. They use contact and non-contact forces to describe interactions between objects. They discuss how natural and human processes cause changes to the Earth’s surface. They describe relationships that assist the survival of living things and sequence key stages in the life cycle of a plant or animal. They identify when science is used to ask questions and make predictions. They describe situations where science understanding can influence their own and others’ actions.Students follow instructions to identify investigable questions about familiar contexts and predict likely outcomes from investigations. They discuss ways to conduct investigations and safely use equipment to make and record observations. They use provided tables and simple column graphs to organise their data and identify patterns in data. Students suggest explanations for observations and compare their findings with their predictions. They suggest reasons why their methods were fair or not. They complete simple reports to communicate their methods and findings.

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AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM ACHIEVEMENT STANDARDS – ENGLISH AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM ENGLISH Years 3 & 4

Year 3 Reading and viewing achievement standardBy the end of Level 3, students understand how content can be organised using different text structures depending on the purpose of the text. They understand how language features, images and vocabulary choices are used for different effects. They read texts that contain varied sentence structures, a range of punctuation conventions, and images that provide additional information. They identify literal and implied meaning connecting ideas in different parts of a text. They select information, ideas and events in texts that relate to their own lives and to other texts.

Year 4 Reading and viewing achievement standardBy the end of Level 4, students understand that texts have different structures depending on the purpose and audience. They explain how language features, images and vocabulary are used to engage the interest of audiences. They describe literal and implied meaning connecting ideas in different texts. They express preferences for particular texts, and respond to others’ viewpoints.

Year 3 Writing achievement standardTheir texts include writing and images to express and develop in some detail experiences, events, information, ideas and characters. They demonstrate understanding of grammar and choose vocabulary and punctuation appropriate to the purpose and context of their writing. They use knowledge of sounds and high frequency words to spell words accurately, checking their work for meaning. They legibly write using consistently sized joined letters.

Year 4 Writing achievement standardStudents use language features to create coherence and add detail to their texts. They understand how to express an opinion based on information in a text. They create texts that show understanding of how images and detail can be used to extend key ideas. Students create structured texts to explain ideas for different audiences. They demonstrate understanding of grammar, select vocabulary from a range of resources and use accurate spelling and punctuation, editing their work to improve meaning.

Year 3 Speaking and listening achievement standardStudents listen to others’ views and respond appropriately. They understand how language features are used to link and sequence ideas. They understand how language can be used to express feelings and opinions on topics. They create a range of texts for familiar and unfamiliar audiences. They contribute actively to class and group discussions, asking questions, providing useful feedback and making presentations.

Year 4 Speaking and Listening achievement standardStudents listen for key points in discussions. They use language features to create coherence and add detail to their texts. They understand how to express an opinion based on information in a text. They create texts that show understanding of how images and detail can be used to extend key ideas. Students create structured texts to explain ideas for different audiences. They make presentations and contribute actively to class and group discussions, varying language according to context.

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PoLT (Principles of Learning and Teaching)

PoLT focus to be

embedded in this unit.

Students learn best when these Principles of Learning and Teaching are embedded in classroom practice:The learning environment is supportive and productive.In learning environments that reflect this principle the teacher:1.1 builds positive relationships through knowing and valuing each student1.2 promotes a culture of value and respect for individuals and their communities1.3 uses strategies that promote students’ self-confidence and willingness to take risks with their learning1.4 ensures each student experiences success through structured support, the valuing of effort, and recognition of their work.The learning environment promotes independence, interdependence and self motivation.In learning environments that reflect this principle the teacher:2.1 encourages and supports students to take responsibility for their learning2.2 uses strategies that build skills of productive collaboration.Students' needs, backgrounds, perspectives and interests are reflected in the learning program.In learning environments that reflect this principle the teacher:3.1 uses strategies that are flexible and responsive to the values, needs and interests of individual students3.2 uses a range of strategies that support the different ways of thinking and learning3.3 builds on students’ prior experiences, knowledge and skills3.4 capitalises on students’ experience of a technology rich world.Students are challenged and supported to develop deep levels of thinking and application.In learning environments that reflect this principle the teacher:4.1 plans sequences to promote sustained learning that builds over time and emphasises connections between ideas4.2 promotes substantive discussion of ideas4.3 emphasises the quality of learning with high expectations of achievement4.4 uses strategies that challenge and support students to question and reflect4.5 uses strategies to develop investigating and problem solving skills4.6 uses strategies to foster imagination and creativity.Assessment practices are an integral part of teaching and learning.In learning environments that reflect this principle the teacher:5.1 designs assessment practices that reflect the full range of learning program objectives5.2 ensures that students receive frequent constructive feedback that supports further learning5.3 makes assessment criteria explicit5.4 uses assessment practices that encourage reflection and self assessment5.5 uses evidence from assessment to inform planning and teaching.Learning connects strongly with communities and practice beyond the classroom.In learning environments that reflect this principle the teacher:6.1 supports students to engage with contemporary knowledge and practice6.2 plans for students to interact with local and broader communities6.3 uses technologies in ways that reflect professional and community practices.

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AC Science planning template - LisaHillSchoolStuff's Weblog Web viewThis unit combines compatible...

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