Over the term we have had a big focus on vocabulary.

Students have been hearing and using language like; mediocre, cognizant, apathetic and fiasco. It has been really encouraging to hear and see students actively involved and excited about words! We will continue to run our weekly word of the week competition next term as well as word explicitly on the literacy skill of summarising. This may sound like a simple thing to focus on, however, it’s a key skill in understanding what we read and see. It involves quite complex skills of understanding, processing, and formulating ones own ideas, as well as using synonyms to help assist meaning. 

What we’ve been reading. 

I have been reading What You are Looking For is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama which is translated from Japanese. I have read a few novels translated from Japanese and really enjoy the insight into Japanese culture. In this one however, I do wonder a little if something has been lost in the intention of the author as some words or phrases don’t seem to quite encompass the meaning or messages in small moments.

The story weaves in and out of different characters’ lives as they deal with their respective stages and issues of life. They all somehow arrive at a local library looking for one thing, and the sage librarian directs them to something else unexpected which always teaches them a lesson they didn’t realise they needed to learn. It is thoroughly heartwarming for this HOD of English and book enthusiast. 

As always I hope you enjoy the holiday break and find a good book to snuggle up with and enjoy.

Ms Beaumont
HOD English.