An Independent Public School

At South Hedland Primary School, we implement Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI), which breaks down concepts and skills into three structured phases: guided practice, collaborative practice, and independent practice. To enhance student engagement, we incorporate Academic Engagement norms and the TAPPLE framework. This systematic approach ensures that students receive clear, direct instruction before applying their learning independently.

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Literacy

Our literacy program encompasses several key areas, including phonics, reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing. We follow a whole-school, evidence-based approach aligned with the Science of Reading, ensuring best-practice teaching strategies are implemented consistently.

• Phonics: Students participate in Spelling Mastery. Spelling Mastery employs a comprehensive approach that integrates phonemic, morphemic, and whole-word strategies to help students understand the connections between sounds, word components, and spelling patterns. Lessons are delivered in small, structured steps with ample practice to ensure students develop a strong grasp of spelling and enhance their writing proficiency. The program runs for approximately 30 minutes, four days per week, with students grouped according to their skill level for targeted instruction.

• Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary: Each week, students engage with rich texts that align with their current writing focus. These texts serve as a foundation for building comprehension skills and expanding vocabulary. The texts are combined with Questioning the Author to check for understanding with the students. 

• Writing: Students are systematically taught various text structures.

  • Term 1: Narrative beginnings and Endings

  • Term 2: Explanation Writing

  • Term 3: Narrative Characterisation and Dialogue 

  • Term 4: Persuasion 

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Numeracy

In Numeracy, students receive explicit instruction in problem-solving strategies, mental math techniques, and core mathematical concepts. We implement the Top Ten Mathematics program, which systematically covers fundamental operations, including place value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Students also explore measurement, geometry, algebra, and data analysis.

To reinforce numeracy skills, students engage in dedicated daily mental math practice and structured warm-up activities. We use Matific online to reinforce the concept being taught in the classroom.

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Specialist Subjects

In addition to literacy and numeracy, students participate in a diverse range of specialist subjects, including:

• Indonesian 

• Science

• Digital Technologies

• Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS)

• Physical Education and Health

• Art/Drama