Dear Parents/Caregivers
Hare Krishna! Welcome back to all the students to term 3 and a warm welcome to Lila Sira and Susmitha Gundelli. We are looking forward to a great term and I must say we have already made a promising start!
The values themes underlying the curriculum for this term are self control and Kindness. These themes will be integrated across the curriculum, especially in Sastra (religious studies). This term we will also be celebrating some major festivals such as Krishna Janmastami (22nd August 2011), Srila Prabhupad’s Appearance Day (23rd August 2011), Balaram Purnima (13th August 2011), and Radhastami (5th September 2011).
In Sanskrit children will be learning simple words, slokas and prayers related to the integrated topic and festivals. We will also be learning Sanskrit slokas and prayers and continuing with the reading and writing of beginning devanagari alphabets.
In English and Literacy the children will be continuing with their story writing and reading activities. We have developed a strong emphasis on teaching grammar and spelling. Throughout this term we will continue to use the Jolly grammar handbook that is both fun and interactive. In oral language we will also be focusing on listening and responding as well as learning how to tell stories and learning simple strategies of narrative writing.
For Maths this term we will be introducing Geometry (symmetry) as well as ongoing development and practice in both the knowledge and strategy components of the Numeracy Project.
The main Social Sciences Inquiry topic for this term is Creating a Peaceful World (Sastra, The Arts, and Technology). These integrated units will be explored through inquiry learning were students are able to explore and gather information independently through researching and facilitation.
In Visual Arts, our specialist art teacher Nalini Mataji will be working with the students in developing various skills in paper weaving, creating a paper collage and doing a running stitch. In Drama, we will be working with Krishna Pastimes, and re-enacting its stories through role play.
In Physical education, we will learn simple ball skills like throwing, catching and kicking at the Massey YMCA.
I hope that the above overview gives you a picture of the term ahead. If you have any concerns, or queries please feel free to contact me at the school. You can also contact me by e-mail me at subhatra@harekrishna.school.nz
Regards,
Subhatra Paramasivam
(Year 1 and 2 Teacher)