Primary Matters

Primary Matters November 1995

From Board Bulletin, Vol 4, No. 9, November 1995

K-6 documents in development and projects in progress by the Board of Studies

Primary Curriculum Development

The Board of Studies is considering an approach to primary curriculum development aimed at providing teachers and schools with a compatible set of primary curriculum documents. Such an approach has the potential to provide schools and teachers with a comprehensive description of the primary curriculum, something that has not been possible for many years (can you remember when?). Of course there are many issues to be resolved to ensure a useful K-6 curriculum package is developed. Some of these issues include what the package should look like, timelines for syllabus release, the incorporation of existing syllabuses and the range of support material required. The Board is looking at this approach as part of its planning over the next two years. By the end of this process, primary educators should be provided with syllabuses in each Key Learning Area based on the same structure and terminology.

English K-6

Following are brief descriptions of some English K-6 projects in development.

English K-6 Syllabus Amendment Document

The Board is currently developing a document that will explain how the current English K-6 Syllabus is to be implemented. This document will include advice to assist teachers wishing to use conventional grammar terminology within the context of a functional approach to language. English K-6 Syllabus Parent Document Completion of the English K-6 Parent Support Document has been delayed temporarily due to the release of the Eltis Report and the Board's subsequent analysis of the recommendations regarding English K-6.

Learning Difficulties Support Material

The Board is currently trialling curriculum materials for students with identified learning difficulties in English. This pilot project involves seven primary schools. The writers of the material will be visiting the participating schools during the trial to discuss the use of the documents with relevant school personnel.

High Support Needs Support Material

A further trial is currently in progress for students with high support needs in Communication. This pilot project involves trialling in four special schools, two integrated settings and two support units. This trial will also include direct consultation with the participating teachers.

LOTE K-6

The Board of Studies is undertaking a number of initiatives in LOTE K-6 including the development of four language-specific syllabuses. Please refer to article on page 1.

The Importance of Play

The Board received considerable praise for developing a discussion paper on play from the members of the Board's consultative networks for Early Childhood Education and Special Education. Due to the favourable response to the paper, the Board has decided to produce The Importance of Play as a booklet. This booklet will be distributed to all schools.

Curriculum Integration

The recently endorsed Guiding Statement on Curriculum Integration signifies a notable evolution in primary syllabus development. The twelve-page statement contains three key components: a definition for curriculum integration, a rationale and a set of guiding principles. It is both concise and balanced, confirming what the Board sees as the authentic representation of subject content and standards within the context of primary education. The Guiding Statement on Curriculum Integration provides a conceptual framework for curriculum integration in New South Wales. Though primarily directed at those engaged in syllabus development, the statement is seen as serving other purposes and has already attracted interest from other States. Above all, it confirms the Board's commitment to quality teaching and learning in the primary sector. The document will be used to guide syllabus writers and to frame the development of curriculum integration support material.

Jump Rope

The National Heart Foundation Jump Rope for Heart program provides teacher training and resource support for teachers. The developmental fitness and movement skill-based Jump Rope program enables high participation across a range of ability levels, fosters teamwork and can contribute to personal and group esteem building. There are currently 500 registered primary schools using this program. Some of these schools have extended their program by forming jump rope demonstration teams. These demonstration teams provide opportunities for students to perform for the benefit of neighbouring schools, other community groups and at special events.

The Jump Rope for Heart program supports the movement and self-esteem components of the primary Key Learning Area of Personal Development, Health and Physical Education.

The Minister has asked the Board to produce a discussion paper on physical education in schools. This paper, which will be distributed for comment before the end of this year, will canvass ways of improving the level of fitness of children in NSW.

If you would like further information regarding these items or K-6 curriculum matters in general, contact Margaret Malone, Inspector, Primary Education, phone (02) 9927 8199 or fax (02) 9954 9218.