What’s happening in Year 5

05CORE1

As the year draws to a close, Year 5 students have been consolidating and applying their mathematical understanding in hands-on investigation tasks. This task involved designing and testing paper planes.

Students explored geometric measure by accurately measuring flight distances, represented and compared distances, totalled the combined distance of their planes, and collected and analysed data. This engaging activity allowed them to bring together a range of skills and knowledge in a practical, fun context.

Through collaboration and problem-solving, students discovered how mathematics connects to real-world situations, proving that learning can truly take flight!

Wendy Anetter, Stephanie Yiorkas, Bryony Watkins, Tayla Kostakis
Year 5 Teachers

05CORE2 – Advent

Year 5 has been reflecting upon Advent as a time of waiting and preparing for the coming of Jesus. Students have examined the symbolism of the Advent Wreath and recorded what these symbols represent. The students have discussed ways they can prepare for Christmas by considering what they can do for others. This has included creating a kindness calendar and contributing to the St Paul’s Outreach Program. Their reflections on the symbolism of the Advent Wreath are included below:

The first purple candle that is lit represents ‘Hope’. It is the candle of hope because we have hope in God, he is faithful and the one who keeps his promise. This candle is lit on the first Sunday in Advent.

The second candle which is purple represents ‘The candle of preparation’. It is called the candle of preparation because we are preparing our hearts for Jesus’ arrival. This candle is lit on the second Sunday in Advent.

The pink and third candle symbolises: love, compassion, friendship, emotional healing and joy. The pink candle is lit during the third week of December, known as Gaudete Sunday. In Latin, it translates to ‘REJOICE,’ (which is why it primarily symbolises Joy).

The fourth candle is also purple and represents love. It is called the candle of love because it is the final week of spiritual preparation for the birth of Jesus.This candle is lit on the fourth Sunday in Advent. 

The white candle symbolises purity, tranquility and spiritual purification. In the Catholic church, it is referred to as ‘The Christ Candle.’ It also symbolises the spotless Lamb of God. The white candle is lit on Christmas Day, symbolising the birth of Jesus, who brought light into the world on that day.

Mia Li and Maggie Anderson

Wendy Anetter
Year 5 Teacher

05CORE3 – Interdisciplinary: Food Production

Year 5 has been focussing on the production of various foods in Australia. They formed expert groups to research the field to fork process, where Australia imports from and exports their food to, as well as other interesting facts. Each group had to present their findings in a creative way, and did they ever! From songs, to dances to raps and role plays, we thoroughly enjoyed learning about the production process of a range of foods grown in Australia.

Bryony Watkins
Year 5 Teacher

05CORE4

Year 5 Kostakis have been hard at work for their last Science lesson of the year! Practising the Cobra Weave as part of their hands-on exploration of forces and patterns. Using colourful cords, they learned how repeated movement and tension create strong, structured designs, linking the activity to real-world examples of engineering and problem-solving. The students showed fantastic focus and teamwork, with many proudly mastering the technique and helping their classmates along the way. It was a fun and creative lesson that brought science concepts to life!

rTayla Kostakis
Year 5 Teacher