Year 6 Study Skills – ‘Organise, Focus, Succeed’

What would you imagine a “Study Space of the Future” would include? This was exactly what Year 6 students did today in the first of six ‘Study Skills’ sessions. The creativity that emerged was amazing! One standout idea was a sanctuary with walls made of a special touch-responsive material that allowed students to draw, write and brainstorm directly on them. This innovative wall would not only save their notes digitally for easy access later but could also transform to display relevant visuals based on the subject they were studying, sparking inspiration and creativity in real-time. Students excitedly shared their visions, showcasing how technology could enhance their learning environments and make studying an engaging and interactive experience.

These ‘Study Skills’ sessions have been designed to provide students with the essential tools they need as they transition to Year 7 and beyond. In the recent MMG survey, our school community emphasised the importance of equipping our students with effective study techniques to support their academic journey, and this initiative has been created with this feedback in mind.

One of the distinct advantages of being part of a P-12 school is our ability to create a seamless educational experience that bridges the gap between primary and secondary education. The collaboration between Year 6 teachers, myself as Director of Curriculum P-6 and Mrs McGuinness, Director of Curriculum 7-12, has been instrumental in developing this program, ensuring a comprehensive approach that addresses the needs of all students.

Over the coming weeks, our Year 6 students will participate in fun and engaging lessons focused on vital study skills, including:

• Organisation: managing their materials and developing a system that suits them as a learner for keeping track of assignments and deadlines.

• Note-Taking: exploration of various note-taking methods, such as the Cornell method and mind mapping, to find techniques that work best for their learning style.
• Digital Literacy: organisation of digital files and how to utilise online resources effectively to enhance their studies.
• Home Study Strategies: how to create a dedicated study environment at home that works efficiently and adheres to family expectations (i.e. – some families have a designated study area, others prefer their children to work in a common area), developing routines and learning how to use tools like calendars and planners to manage their time effectively.
• Revision Techniques: learning effective study techniques, including the Pomodoro Technique, to maximise focus and retention during study sessions.

Participating in this program will enhance students’ learning by providing them with practical strategies to manage their time and materials effectively and build their confidence as they approach the challenges of Year 7 and the higher demands of secondary education. The essential life skills this program fosters will serve them well throughout their academic careers and beyond, helping them become independent, self-directed learners.

We are excited about this initiative and look forward to seeing our students thrive as they prepare for the next chapter of their educational journey. Thank you for your continued support as we work together to ensure the best outcomes for our students.

Kind regards

Alison Rasheed
Director of Curriculum K-6