Gioia House Curriculum Leader

Public Speaking Competition

This term, our Years 5 and 6 students have been engaging in the Public Speaking competition as part of our literacy program. Over the last five weeks, students have worked through the writing process of planning, drafting, editing, proofreading and publishing their written speeches, ready for their final speech to be rehearsed and delivered. 

Delivering a speech helps students to develop confidence, improve verbal communication skills and learn to express their ideas clearly using effective use of voice. The experience also encourages critical thinking, creativity and resilience, as students organise their thoughts, speak with conviction and respond to feedback.  

Following the presentation of speeches, select students will be invited to represent our school in an Inter-School Public Speaking competition with St Patrick’s College. This opportunity allows students to showcase their presentation skills in a supportive environment while engaging with peers from another school. The inter-school relationship fosters a sense of community and encourages collaboration. By participating in this event, students learn to appreciate different perspectives, build friendships and develop mutual respect. 

We are proud of all our students for embracing this challenge and look forward to celebrating their achievements. 

Daily Review

Daily review of Mathematics and Spelling/Vocabulary are being implemented in our Years 5 and 6 classrooms to improve students’ long-term retention of their learning. The concept of daily review draws on the principles of cognitive science, assisting in the consolidation of student knowledge by active practice of drawing on previous learning. 

Regular practice in Mathematics helps build fluency with number facts, strengthens problem-solving abilities, and enhances confidence in applying concepts across different areas. Similarly, daily Spelling review supports vocabulary development and improves reading and writing accuracy. The regular practice and retrieval of prior knowledge empowers students to become more independent, capable and confident learners. 

Stephanie Yiorkas
Gioia House Curriculum Leader