Literacy
At Watsonia Primary School, we utilise a Structured Literacy approach to teach reading, writing, and spelling. This method involves the explicit and systematic instruction of foundational and fundamental literacy skills. Our literacy program is thoughtfully designed to align with evidence-based methods and the most current research in reading education known as ‘The Big Six’. The Big Six in Literacy Instruction—comprising Oral Language, Phonological Awareness, Phonics, Vocabulary, Fluency and Comprehension—serves as the cornerstone of our English program. We recognize the significance of each component in nurturing well-rounded and proficient readers and writers.
Instructional Time:
At Watsonia Primary School, students engage in approximately 10 hours of English instruction per week. Instruction focuses on developing essential literacy skills in, reading, speaking and listening and writing.
Mathematics
We are committed to helping every student reach a high level of proficiency in Mathematics. Our curriculum is designed around the six key areas of the Mathematics 2.0 Curriculum: Number, Algebra, Measurement, Space, Statistics and Probability. We ensure that high-impact teaching strategies and hands-on materials are effectively utilised during mathematics instruction.
Instructional Time:
At Watsonia Primary School, students engage in approximately 5 hours of Mathematics instruction per week.
Science
At Watsonia Primary School, we offer a Science curriculum designed to foster a comprehensive understanding across various scientific disciplines, including biological, chemical, physical and Earth, and Space sciences.
Engagement in Science at our school is characterised by hands-on experiences and direct observation. Students are actively encouraged to inquire, collect data, and engage in discussions to deepen their understanding.
Instructional Time:
At Watsonia Primary School, students engage in approximately 1-2 hours of Science per week.
Inquiry
Watsonia Primary School delivers the Humanities curriculum, encompassing History, Geography, Civics and Citizenship, and Economics and Business, alongside the Health curriculum, employing a structured topic cycle. Our pedagogical approach emphasises a scaffolded Inquiry methodology, aiming to facilitate success for all students and build knowledge.
Instructional Time:
At Watsonia Primary School, students engage in approximately 1-2 hours of Inquiry Learning per week.