The Blueprint Edition 4 - Karratha Senior High School

Page 1
Dampier Road
Karratha WA 6714
Ph: 9187 8000
Fax: 9187 8045
Blueprint
Blueprint
PO Box 1630
Karratha WA 6714
karratha.shs@education.wa.edu.au
www.karrathashs.wa.edu.au
Education in the Great
Outdoors
During Weeks 3 and 4 of this term,
the Years 11 and 12 took off on their
adventure to Millstream Chichester
National Park for their Outdoor Ed
mountain biking unit. The students took
their first ride from the turn off to Python
Pool and the majority managed to
successfully ride the full 19 kilometres,
even with a lot of corrugation, to their
rewarding destination. While Python
Pool wasn’t full to capacity , it was still
as beautiful as usual and some of the
students braved a swim in the chilly but
refreshing water.
We then drove to our campsite at
Stargazers to set up our tents and take
a look at the homestead to learn more
about the area we would be staying in.
Back at the camp we prepared ourselves
for dinner. We set up our trangias and
began cooking a range of meals, from
two minute noodles to chicken schnitzel.
Ayden and Kendall also gave us an
insight into their culture by letting us
try the dugong they brought along and
cooked!
After the clean-up of dinner we all sat
in a circle to discuss the positives of the
day, the challenges and the interesting,
while staring into the sky and taking in
the spectacular view of the stars.
Edition 4
Once finally settling down to sleep we
had the early 6am wake up call to give us
enough time to pack away our tents and
cook breakfast. Then it was back on our
bikes for a challenging 26 kilometre ride
along Snappy Gum drive. This is where
the students really shone, from the ones
who pushed themselves the whole time
to constantly be the first to catch up to
the pace-setting vehicle, to those who
were braving the pain to stay on their
bikes.
Once they completed the ride and
arrived at Deep Reach, they all felt very
proud of what they had achieved. Some
celebrated with a swim and others with a
well-deserved feed and then it was back
on the bus for the long, sleepy drive back
to school.
At the end of each camp there was a
feeling that all the students had enjoyed
themselves and were very grateful
towards the teachers for organising such
a great trip. We also wanted to give
thanks to Mr Lyon for helping out on the
Year 11 camp with his bike expertise,
and Miss Clarke, Miss Prout and Mrs
English for coming along and helping
out.
Brett Mullen - Outdoor Education
Edition 4: 11 June 2015
Inside this edition:
Principal’s Message
From the Deputies’ Desks
3-6
Student Wellbeing:
From the SW Coordinators
7-9
Teacher Profile
10
From the Chaplain
11
Department News
Technology & Enterprise
12
The Arts
12-13
H&PE
14
Science
14
English
14
HASS
14
Community Notices
15-18
Upcoming Events
Football/netball Port Hedland
11 Jun
Parent Info Evening - Uni
18 Jun
Clontarf Yr 7-9 Camp
Assembly
18-19 Jun
22 Jun
Yr 6 into high school Info night 23 Jun
G4G Reward Activity
24 Jun
Clontarf Yr 7-8 Camp
25-26 Jun
Arts Evening
Country Week
25 Jun
Week 11
Last day of Term 2
3 July
First day of Term 3
20 July
Left: Years 11 & 12
mountain bikers. More
photos page 14
Towards Tomorrow
2
Page 2
Blueprint
Term 2 has
h bbeen extremely
l busy
b
for the
h school.
h l
NAPLAN testing for Year 7 and 9 students, OLNA
(Online Literacy and Numeracy Assessment) testing
for Year 10 and 11 students, course examinations for
Year 10, 11 and 12 students, report preparation and as
always, great teaching and learning.
We have experienced a range of wonderful activities at
the school involving visits by guest speakers including
our four WA Australians of the Year, John Worsfold –
former West Coast Eagles premiership coach, members
of the WA Symphony Orchestra and our Aspire
partners from the University of WA. On top of this,
many students have attended camps and excursions
and participated and excelled in sporting events. We
now have our Year 11 and 12 students preparing for
Country Week and a group of our Year 11 Hospitality
students preparing for a Worldskills competition.
What a fantastic environment for students to learn and
experience some wonderful educational opportunities.
We are so fortunate to have such a great school with
great facilities, motivated and engaged students and
dedicated and committed staff. We appreciate the
partnership we have established between the students,
the school and our community and we continue to
work hard to make everyone proud of what we are as
a school.
School Reports
Over the next few weeks I look forward to reading
and signing all Semester 1 reports. I have no doubt
that once again I will see some outstanding results by
students who have worked hard and achieved well in
the first half of the year. I am sure I will also see a close
correlation between the results that are being achieved
by those students who generally have a high attendance
record compared to the lower results of students who
do not attend school consistently. Research clearly
shows that students who are not attending school more
than 90% of the time are not going to achieve to their
full capacity. I do encourage parents to make sure
your child spends every day possible at school, fully
engaged in the educational programs on offer.
Parent Information Evening
A Year 10 Parent Information Evening was held at the
school on Tuesday 9 June to present what we will be
offering in Senior School for 2016. This was extremely
well attended and much information was provided
around the changes that our current Year 10 students
will undertake as part of them achieving their Western
Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) in 2017.
Year 10 students will soon receive their handbook and
start making decisions around the selection of their
study program for the next two years. It is extremely
important
p
that the conversations about the ppathways
y
Edition 4
available
il bl andd what
h you child
hild wishes
i h to pursue start
now. Selection of a course of study over the next two
years needs to be well considered based on aspirations
and achievement at this stage. I wish all students well
during this important decision making period.
Year 8, 9 and 10 Subject Selections for
2016
All current Year 7, 8 and 9 students will soon receive
information which contains what is being offered at
the school for 2016. Much of the information the
school requires from students is based on elective
choices for next year. It is important that students
return selection information by the date requested so
that the school can place them into classes. Decisions
made by each student impacts on many aspects of our
school planning including the selection and allocation
of staff and the facilities that will be used in the school.
We look forward to all students returning the relevant
information by the due date so as we can continue our
planning for next year.
Duty of Care
When your child attends school, the Department of
Education (through the school) takes on a duty of
care responsibility for each and every child. This is
an important responsibility and a priority for us is that
your child comes to school and can feel safe. As part
of our duty of care responsibility, we ask that students
come to school in Karratha SHS dress. We are then
able to identify our students on school grounds.
To further ensure the safety of your child, there are
areas around the school site that are placed out of
bounds. One such area is Pilbara Institute which is
located next door. The only students who are entitled
to be on Pilbara Institute grounds are those in Years
11 and 12 undertaking their block release training
program as part of Vocational Education.
Start of Term 3
All schools in the Karratha Network will be returning
to school on MONDAY 20 JULY.
In Term 3 Jennifer McMahon will be sitting in my
chair as Principal. I will be taking long service leave,
returning for the start of Term 4. I look forward to
returning and seeing our students continuing to engage
fully in their learning, taking advantage of everything
on offer at our great school.
Towards Tomorrow
Greg Kelly
PRINCIPAL
Blueprint
Page 3
Edition 4
It is
i hard
h d to believe
b li
we are nearing
i the
h endd of Term 2 already!
l d Our Years 7, 8 andd 9 students
d
have
h
had
h d
a very busy and productive few weeks since our last Blueprint publication.
Way back in Week 4 our Year 7 and 9 students sat their NAPLAN tests and I am pleased to report
that all students that participated did so with the determination, commitment and respect this testing
warrants. It was a challenge to squeeze just under 400 students into A and B block however due
to students ensuring they were aware of class and time changes, this went off without a hitch. Our
attendances in both year groups over the three days were reflective of what we have been seeing this
year overall which is pleasing and means that very few students missed out on testing. We should
have our 2015 results late August and I look forward to reporting on KSHS’s progress later in the year.
In Week 5 a group of Year 7-10 girls and Year 7-9 boys travelled to Newman for the annual Smarter than Smoking
AFL competition. Our students took on the likes of St Lukes, Newman SHS, Tom Price SHS and Hedland SHS.
By all reports our students competed fiercely and displayed great sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
Congratulations to all staff and students involved with special thanks to Mr Tristan Sawyer and Miss Keryn
Eckersley for their organisation of the KSHS teams for this event. We have another representative team of Year
7-9 students from our Goals for Girls program travelling to Port Hedland later this week with Mrs Deb English. I
wish the girls all the best and know they will do us proud.
New school uniforms have arrived and it is expected that all students are in correct shorts, shirts and jackets
beginning Week 9. It is imperative that all students have a uniform ready for each day; it is part of what makes us
a school community with students wearing their uniforms proudly each and every day.
Mid-year reports will be distributed at the conclusion of this term. It is very important that you read your child’s
report carefully, taking particular note of the comments and attributes for each subject. Although the grade indicates
a student’s academic progression, the comments and attributes give insight into a student’s social/emotional
development, behaviour, work ethic, content specifically covered and feedback on what may be done to do to
progress in the subject. Please also read any explanatory notes accompanying the report as they give an overview
on how to get the most out of reading the report.
As Semester 1 comes to a close in a few short weeks, I would like to thank the Year 7-9 cohorts for their continued
enthusiasm and commitment to their education. I have thoroughly enjoyed my first two terms at Karratha Senior
High School and look forward to finishing 2015 off on a high in Semester 2.
Scott Cumming
Deputy Principal
Karratha SHS Mobile App
x
x
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YEAR 6 PARENTS AND STUDENTS
x
YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND OUR
2016 YEAR 7 STUDENT INFORMATION EVENING
x
Tuesday 23 June 2015
7.00pm
x
KARRATHA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY
DAMPIER ROAD
x
x
x
x
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Curriculum structure and offerings
Extra curricular programs
Future pathways and study programs
Future school directions
Opportunity to meet school staff
Download free from:
For further information contact the school on 9187 8000
Towards Tomorrow
Keep track of announcements
for the entire school as well as
customising for specific year
groups.
Up to date Term Planner.
Contact us easily from your
mobile device.
Read the latest Blueprint
edition.
Access important school
information.
Links to the KSHS Website and
other useful sites.
Blueprint
Page 4
Edition 4
OLNA
Year 10 and 11 students have received confirmation of their OLNA results, if they sat the OLNA
this year. Confirmation of results was mailed to parents earlier this term.
Achieving OLNA is demonstration that your child has the literacy and numeracy skills regarded as
essential to meet the demands of everyday life and work.
For example, it would be expected that a young person leaving school can write a good job
application, read and follow instructions and complete the sorts of maths adults encounter all the
time when out shopping or balancing the family budget.
Your child needs to be able to do the above to ensure they can successfully take part in the workforce after
school, manage their own finances and be a valuable member of society. Being unable to do this successfully will
disadvantage your child throughout their adult life.
Employers, TAFE, universities and the community have requested greater assurances about the standards of literacy
and numeracy achieved by students at the end of Year 12. It is important that your child demonstrates a minimum
standard of literacy and numeracy to achieve a WACE from 2016, but more importantly it is essential your child
has these literacy and numeracy skills so they are not disadvantaged in their life after school.
What can you do to help your teenager at home?
OLNA is made up of three assessments:
•
Literacy – Reading
•
Literacy – Writing
•
Numeracy.
There are many things that can be done at home that reinforce and support learning in literacy and numeracy. Such
as:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Reading an article in a newspaper, magazine or a section in a book, then discussing the meaning, important
parts, interesting facts about what you have just read.
Reading through recipes that you can prepare together, talk about quantities, fractions, percentages, the steps
in the method when cooking together.
Looking together at numerical information, statistics and data in newspapers and thinking critically about the
author’s purpose
Discussing time-management skills such as planning and setting priorities
Talking about household bills, such as telephone, electricity and rates — analysing graphs and discuss costs
and ways to reduce energy consumption
Comparing the cost and value of various mobile phone plans and providers to find the most economical option
based on call costs, calling patterns, your teenager’s phone usage and analysing previous bills.
Discussing why a filmmaker may have created a movie in a certain way — what was the purpose, who was the
intended audience and what points of view or values were conveyed? Talking about language choices and why
characters are depicted in certain ways.
These are just some of the activities that can help your teenager. Any activity that involves reading, writing,
numbers that makes you together discuss, analyse, draw conclusions and gather understanding can assist your
child. Consistency is a major factor is assisting your teenager.
Leeuwin II Sailing Adventure
All Year 10, 11 and 12 students have the opportunity to apply for a scholarship for a place on The Youth Leadership
Development Program on the Leeuwin II Sailing Adventure. The scholarships are provided by the Karratha
Education Initiative through the NWSP. Julie Pope from the KEI has been to the year assemblies this term to
explain to students about the Leeuwin II Ocean Adventure and how students can apply.
The Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation based in Fremantle, Western Australia.
They are an award-winning provider of experiential learning and leadership development programs, aimed at
young people aged 14-25.
Their mission is to challenge and inspire young people to realise their personal potential and make a positive
contribution to the wider community, through the unique medium of a tall sailing ship.
Towards Tomorrow
Page 5
Blueprint
Edition 4
The ship, the STS Leeuwin II, is Western Australia’s own Tall Ship, a 3-masted barquentine with over 810 square
metres of sail and an overall length of 55 metres. Leeuwin II is a working ship and all voyage participants are
expected to be involved in most aspects of ship operations, from sailing, steering and navigating to cleaning the
ship and climbing the mast.
Challenge by choice
Leeuwin operates under the principle of ‘challenge by choice’ - the level of the challenge is up to each individual.
The the more each participant is willing to challenge themselves, the more they take away from the experience.
Youth leadership development programs
Since 1986 the Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation has provided exciting and life-changing sailing programs
to more than 35,000 participants from all over Australia and from a wide section of society. In the last three years,
55% of voyage participants came from outside the Perth metro area.
The Youth Explorer Voyage Program provides youth with both psychological skills – self-confidence, self-esteem,
team work – as well as sociological skills – acceptance and co-operation of others - to enable them to be better
citizens.
Students interested in applying for a scholarship need to complete community service hours and record these in
the designated log book. They need to complete an application package and return it to school by 1 August 2015.
Students have until the end of Term 3 to complete their community service hours. Application packages have been
given out to students, spare ones are available at Student Services.
This is a great opportunity for our students and I encourage them to get involved.
Jennifer McMahon
Deputy Principal
Towards Tomorrow
Page 6
Blueprint
Edition 4
I have recently had the opportunity to attend the Positive Schools Conference in Perth. This is an event that
provides schools with insight into the latest research surrounding student Mental Health and Wellbeing. There was
some fantastic information presented. I will share a couple of pertinent points for our students and families over
the coming months.
An aspect of student wellbeing that was highlighted many times throughout the conference was the importance
of sleep. I am sure that many households struggle with getting their children to sleep at a reasonable time and
ensuring that they are getting enough! Most young people need about 9 hours. Some suggestions are:
• Prioritise sleep. Teach your kids the importance of shut-eye from an early age.
• Encourage them to do what they can the night before (have a shower, prepare their uniform and school bag) so
they can sleep in a little longer in the morning.
• Limit electronic devices in the bedroom.
• Avoid stimulants like coffee, coke, chocolate and sugary or spicy food at least three to four hours before
bedtime.
• Ensure their bed is comfy, and the room is quiet and well-ventilated.
• Dim the lights at night: studies show carefully controlled exposure to light can reset the circadian timing
system. Keep their curtains open to ensure maximum morning sun.
• Avoid early morning appointments like sports training or tutoring, and late-night exercise, as it raises body
temperature and inhibits sleep.
• Get a routine in place: go to bed and wake up at the same time each week day, and avoid extensive sleep-ins
on weekends.
• See your doctor if things do not improve as there may be an underlying issue that’s inhibiting sleep, such as
anxiety or depression.
I know that getting the children to sleep is a chore in every household but the evidence certainly suggests that it has
a huge impact on children’s wellbeing.
We are focusing at school on ensuring that students get to class on time and make the most of their learning
opportunities. School starts at 8.20am and all students are expected at school at this time. Students are aware
of what materials they need to bring every day. If there are any issues which are causing your child to be late or
unprepared for school that we can assist with please let us know.
Mr Ashley Eversden
Deputy Principal
Learning is a partnership between school and home. For your child to succeed in education they need school
and home to work together. Learning at school must be reinforced at home to ensure understanding. It is
essential that your child studies at home, this is homework, every day!
What does study at home look like?
1. Reading through notes from each lesson each afternoon / evening at home.
2. Rewriting notes in a format that they can understand in a “study” exercise book.
3. Learning the notes, discussing the work with their parent or caregiver and having short quizzes and tests to
ensure understanding.
4. Highlighting anything not understood.
5. Contacting the teacher to clarify anything that is not understood.
The above strategies should be put in place every day at home. Parents can contact their child’s classroom
teachers at any time (by phone, written note or email) to check what they and their child are doing at home is
the right thing.
There are many websites to help and support parents and your child at home. Every child at Karratha SHS has
access to mathletics (www.mathletics.com.au). The Department of Education has Connect, a place where our
teachers put additional information to assist students. Your child has the website and log on details. Sometimes
just googling a question or topic can assist. Teachers can give other websites which are useful for their
particular subject.
Working together we can all ensure every child experiences success in education.
Towards Tomorrow
Blueprint
Page 7
Edition 4
Student Wellbeing
Student Wellbeing Coordinators
Years 7, 8, 9
As a Student Well Being Coordinator I would like to
take this opportunity to discuss some of the pressures
of student life and some of the effective strategies for
dealing with these pressures. As a school we understand
that students are faced with many pressures. As a result
of this the parent school relationship has become more
important.
The building of the resilience needed to deal with the
rapid changes of an adolescent has become a priority
for many parents and schools. If your child is struggling
to develop resilience there many strategies that you can
practice at home. These are some of the strategies we
focus on at school.
Connections;
Teach
children how to make
friends and develop
empathy.
Encourage
them to be a friend in
order to get friends.
Teach
children
to
help others; Children who may feel helpless can be
empowered by helping others. Ask for help with a task
they can master. At school, brainstorm with children
about ways they can help others.
Daily routine; Following a routine can be comforting
to children, especially younger children who crave
structure in their lives. Encourage children to develop
their own routines.
Self-care for children; Teach child the importance
of making time to eat properly, groom themselves,
exercise and rest. Children need ‘down time’ to relax,
so make sure that not all free time is
filled with a scheduled activity.
Goals; Teach children to set
reasonable goals and move toward
them one step at a time. Moving
toward that goal and receiving praise
for doing so will focus children on
what they have accomplished.
Nurture a positive self-view; Help children remember
ways that they have successfully handled hardships
in the past and how this can help them handle future
challenges. Help children learn to trust themselves to
solve problems and make appropriate decisions.
Be optimistic; Even when children are facing very
painful events, help them look at the situation in a
broader context. A positive outlook enables children to
see the good things in life and keep going even in the
hardest times.
If your child is struggling with issues related to
school please encourage them to come to Student
Services to seek assistance. We know that when
students are engaged and enjoying school that we will
see improvement in achievement, satisfaction and
attendance.
Joel Wilson
Student Wellbeing Coordinator
Towards Tomorrow
Blueprint
Page 8
Edition 4
Student Wellbeing Coordinators cont’d
Years 10, 11, 12
Now that students have finished exams that does not
mean students have finished work for the term. Senior
School students are now starting new courses of study
and Year 10s will continue to be assessed right up
until the last day of term. Full time attendance is vital
for students to maintain a high standard of results.
Attending school every day enables students to address
all aspects of their curriculum without falling behind.
Reminder that school starts at 8.20 and students are
expected to be in their first class at that time.
The last few weeks have been very stressful for students
completing assessments and studying for exams. You
may have noticed your child developed stress such as
feeling irritable, negative self talk, problems sleeping
and nausea. If that was the case remind your child to
stick to a routine of going to bed at a reasonable time,
eating regularly and making time for fun and exercise.
Assist your child to be more organised and help them
plan a study schedule for the next round of exams at the
end of the year. Always encourage your child to relax
before they go to bed. Over the last two weeks I have
taught students in Years 11 and 12 how to meditate
and relaxation techniques. Ask them to show you what
they learnt and remind them relaxation techniques can
be a way to lower anxiety.
The universities based in Perth are combining to visit
our ATAR bound students at KSHS on June 18. The
morning session will be for invited students only where
the combined universities will outline their entrance
requirements, daily life at university, scholarships
and career opportunities. Parents are invited to attend
in the evening for an expo displaying information on
various universities, a 30 minute presentation and
question time. Please see the flyer in
this blueprint and send an RSVP for
catering purposes.
Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 are
invited to attend a Defence force
presentation at Karratha SHS, from
12-1.00pm, on Thursday 23 July.
All interested students please give
your name as an expression of interest to attend this
presentation to Mrs Martinovich before July 21.
A number of Year 10 students are engaged in the
i-track programme that runs once a week in the library.
Students have been matched with a professional
mentor and chat with them online to discuss possible
career pathways, guidance with study and what it
is like in the workforce. The Smith Family recruits
screened volunteers to monitor all chat conversations.
Below are three of the Year 10 i-track students: Kyffan,
Nikolina and Kate.
Can Teen has provided me with a usb key for parents
going through cancer treatment to give to their children
to watch in their own time, in their own space. Can
Teen is a government initiative to support teenagers
who may have family members going through Cancer.
The usb contains a short video and may help answer
questions and alleviate worries that your child has.
Cancer is different in a young person’s world. If you
wish to borrow the USB please see me in Student
Services.
Towards Tomorrow
Mrs Gina Martinovich
gina.martinovich@education.wa.edu.au
Page 9
Blueprint
Edition 4
Student Wellbeing Coordinators cont’d
ThinkingaboutUniversity?
ParentInformationSession
Tohelpparentsandstudentsgetpreparedforuniversity,
representativesfromthefiveWAuniversitieswillberunningparent
informationsessionsinKarratha.
Ifyouhavequestionsaboutcourses,alternativeentrypathways,
applicationprocesses,howmuchitwillcost,andwhattoexpect,come
alongtothesession.
When:Thursday,18th June,6:30pm
Where:KarrathaSeniorHighSchoollibrary
Toregisterorformoreinformationcontact:GinaMartinovich,
gina.martinovich@education.wa.edu.au or91878010
Towards Tomorrow
Blueprint
Page 10
Edition 4
Teacher Profile
Name:
Lesley Misarz
What is your position at the school?
Numeracy Teacher to
Years 7 - 9.
Tell us a bit about yourself:
My Husband and I arrive in Karratha in October 2012. This was not my first time living
in Karratha as I did my early years of Primary school in Karratha at St Pauls. We came
to Karratha because I took up a position at Pilbara Institute as a numeracy and literacy
lecturer. Previous to that I was a lecturer in Perth working with At-Risk Young people
and early school leavers. I love living in Karratha and I cannot see us moving in the near
future.
My passion is fitness and wellbeing. I am an avid gym goer and I also enjoy any aqua
activities be it fishing, swimming or just beach combing.
Tell us about the Literacy Program at Karratha SHS:
I am the Numeracy teacher in the Literacy and Numeracy pilot project. The group of
students that I teach have been identified as having low literacy and numeracy. We are
working to improve the current skill level of the students by plugging up any holes in
their current skills and knowledge.
I am really enjoying working in this position.
What are students saying about the program?
We have many light bulb moments and I love when I hear “Ohhhh I get it !”
Towards Tomorrow
Blueprint
Page 11
Edition 4
From the Chaplain:
Well who can believe it’s almost half way through the year already! I have settled in well
here at Karratha Senior High School and I am really enjoying getting to know the staff and
students. It’s such a pleasure to walk through the school at recess or lunch and have students
greeting me and wanting to have a chat.
I feel privileged to be in a position where I have the time to meet with students one on one to
talk about what’s going on in their lives. It’s a very rewarding experience being a listening ear
for a child who may feel like they have no one else to talk to. Students also come and tell me
about the positive things that are happening in their lives which means I get to share in their
joys too!
Of all the things I speak to students about, mental health would definitely be one of the common
themes along with peer and family relationships. I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate the importance of
keeping mentally healthy and the effect that this can have on both peer and family relationships.
Mental health is defined as a person’s psychological and emotional wellbeing. A person who is mentally healthy is
generally able to form positive relationships, realise their own potential and abilities and cope with the stresses of
everyday life. Firstly, it’s important to note that anyone and everyone can experience mental health issues, even a
person who you think always looks happy. When someone is suffering from a mental health issue their thoughts,
behaviours and interactions with others may change from what is the norm for that person. As a result, relationships
with friends and family can become strained.
So what can we do to keep mentally healthy? Here are some tips:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Talk about or express your feelings (e.g. creatively through
art, music, dance, writing etc.)
Regular exercise
Eating healthy
Getting plenty of sleep (8.5 – 10 hours for 12 to 18 year olds
and 7.5 – 9 hours for adults)
Spending time with friends and family
Having a hobby
Setting realistic life goals for yourself
Talking to a GP or other health professional
We all know about keeping physically fit and healthy but sometimes out mental health can slip under the radar. As
you can see from the above, there are plenty of things we can do to improve our mental health. If you are worried
about your child’s mental health don’t hesitate to seek help. You can start by seeing your local GP who will give
you advice on what step to take next. I’d like to finish with a quote:
“I
can’t change the direction of the wind but I can
adjust my sails to always reach my destination.”
– Jimmy Dean
Chloe Zietsman
School Chaplain
Towards Tomorrow
Blueprint
Page 12
Technology & Enterprise
A safety reminder from Design and
Technology
At the beginning of each year students are given the
minimum PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) that is
required in our workshops. It is very simple, especially
compared to commercial workshops. Enclosed Shoes
and Safety Glasses.
Almost everyone gets the enclosed shoes right,
however less than half of students consistently bring
and wear SAFETY GLASSES. This is a major issue.
Students are reminded constantly that it is not just
themselves and their personal project that might be
a safety issue, but there are 22 other people in the
workshop, also working.
Safety Glasses are a MUST. You cannot grow another
eye if you lose one!
Please make sure your child is coming to school with
a set of safeties.
Simon Pope, Rowan Clark, Peter Hinchcliffe and
Alun Jones
Electronics
Year 9 have been making electronic crickets this
term, soldering components to a PCB (printed circuit
board). Most of these have been completed (and I
think upsetting some teachers…sorry) and have been
taken home to entertain, amuse and probably annoy
other family members. This item has been assessed
and used as practice for their next project, which is a
miniature electronic organ that students will be able to
play their favourite music on! This is a more involved
project that will test the skills the students have learnt
in Terms 1 and 2.
Year 10 have been very
busy constructing another
electronic item, the 4x4x4
LED (light emitting diode)
Cube. This is a fairly
complex construction which
most of the class have
performed really well. Just
building the cube and having
it work first time is quite an achievement. The cube
is programmable and several students have already
figured out and displayed their programing expertise to
the class. The level of programming can be quite basic,
like changing a number or a colour. Students also have
the capability of writing their own programs and even
extending the cubes capability by adding additional
items. Look out for this one coming home as even in
its most basic working format it is quite mesmerising!
Alun Jones
Vocational Teacher
Edition 4
Hospitality
11 students from Karratha Senior High School have
been selected to participate in the Pilbara World Skills
Competition. On 18 June, these students will take part
in a Master Class, where a local Chef will be teaching
them some new tricks of the trade. Friday 19 June is the
competition, where each student works individually to
prepare a three course meal for a panel of judges. They
will compete against fellow Certificate II Hospitality
students from other Pilbara High Schools. Good luck
to Emilee, Hollie, Sophia, Jessica, Jayde, Nicholas,
Levi, Razara, Chevy, Star and Allisha!
Alexandra Dobbin
The Arts
Drama
What a great semester it has been! The students
have come out of their shells and there are so many
wonderful things happening in Drama.
Year 7 Drama: Students explored Improvisation
through the topic of bullying where they came up with
scenarios that could happen every day and looked at the
effects bullying has on the victims. They are currently
working on a Haunted House playbuilding challenge
where they have been given a set of instructions they
must follow and show the skills they have learnt in
Drama this year. It has been great to see the students
working together and supporting each other over the
semester and thinking creatively.
Year 8 Drama: Students have also created bullying
scenarios through Improvisation. They are currently
exploring Indigenous Dreamtime Stories where they
have created a story of their own based on the themes
they have learnt in class and will be performing them.
These students have worked really hard this semester
and it is amazing to see them reach their goals that they
set for Drama.
Year 9 & 10 Drama: Three classes are entering Yoh
Fest (Youth on Health Festival) which is Western
Australia’s biggest youth performing arts event held
in Port Hedland in September. This year the topic is
‘equality’ and all classes are busy exploring what this
means to them and our community. Not only are we
entering three Drama groups but two Art pieces and
one monologue. The students are very excited and
are already working really hard. This will be a truly
rewarding experience for them.
Performing Arts Club have finally found their identity
and we are pleased to announce that we have a name,
“The Over Reactors”. We have had a great time
building relationships and challenging the students,
building there Improvisation skills. Our first event
will be the Arts Evening in Week 10, followed by a
performance at FeNaClNG in Term 3.
Towards Tomorrow
Blueprint
Page 13
The Arts (con’td)
On Thursday 25 June, Karratha SHS will be hosting an
Arts evening. Come on down and support the students
involved. More details to come.
If you have any questions please contact me.
Tara Armstrong - Drama Teacher
Tara-Mai.Armstrong@education.wa.edu.au
Music
The Music Department has been lucky enough to
have a number of school visits from touring musicians
recently. At the end of Term 1 students had the
opportunity to audition for the Gondwana Indigenous
Children’s Choir. A small number of interested students
participated and have the opportunity to be selected for
this prestigious national choir.
Early in Term 2 the Year 10 Music class was visited
by solo recording artist Amy Sugars. Amy spoke to
students about aspects of launching a successful music
career and performed a number of original songs. It
was a wonderful experience as students got to relate
and interact with a musician close to their age who is
making a real go of it.
In Week 5 Instrumental Music students were treated to a
workshop and performance from members of the West
Australian Symphony Orchestra (WASO) Woodwind
Quartet. This was a marvelous experience as students
received small group coaching from some of the best
musicians in the country. Karratha Senior High School
(KSHS) students Kaitlyn (Year 10), Alisha (Year 9)
and Mac (Year 7) were invited to perform with the
quartet at the WASO community concert held later that
week. These students all did an excellent job and can
be very proud of this achievement.
Karratha Instrumental Music Students have been
the lucky recipients of two flutes donated by Musica
Viva through the Smarter than Smoking – New Life
Instrument program. Alisha received a Miyazawa
flute and Tiana of Tambrey Primary School received a
Edition 4
Jupiter flute. Both girls continue to put in many hours
of practice every week and are sure to make good use
of these instruments.
The Karratha
Combined
S c h o o l s
Band kicked
proceedings
off with a
rendition of
Sesame Street
and
James
Bond
for
the
Pilbara
Leadership Forum. There was a great showing from
all students and my thanks goes out to those families
who made transport arrangements to get students to
and from this performance.
Year 8 Music students are beginning to rock out as they
learn some guitar, bass and drumming basics. They all
did a fantastic job on their drum machine compositions
employing textural builds, binary and ternary form and
multi-layered rhythms. Year 9 students have completed
a great semester’s work and are about to begin their
recording projects which will see them create their
own original CDs.
Year 7 music students have been creating some
interesting melodic compositions. The music room was
transformed into an exciting variety of Soundscapes
where students had to represent the sounds in the
natural environment using instruments, vocal sounds,
body percussion and whatever else they could uncover
in the classroom.
Year 10 performances have unearthed a wealth of talent
within KSHS with an array of singers, a drummer and
even a blues harmonica player.
All community members are invited to attend the KSHS
Arts Evening from 6pm on 25 June in the Performing
Arts Centre. There will be Visual Art on display as well
as performances from the Karratha Combined Schools
Band and the first ever performance from the Monday
afternoon guitar class. KSHS Drama students will also
be performing. I encourage everyone to come and have
a look at some of the fantastic work KSHS students are
doing in the Arts.
James Crocker and Roz White - Music Department
Towards Tomorrow
Blueprint
Page 14
Health & Physical Education
Outdoor Education Camps-(See article page 1)
Edition 4
6. Practice answering questions: It is important to
answer as many questions as possible so that a
student can get a broad range of question techniques
and styles which will help in obtaining very high
grades.
Dhivahar Sri Ranjan
Maths/Science Teacher
English
Science
Physics
Physics is a branch of Science that is the study of matter
and energy. The study of this subject requires applying
concepts through the use of theories and formulae and
solving them in a logical manner. Because of the nature
and amount of application required, solving Physics
questions can be a challenge to students. However,
the following guidelines can be used to help study this
subject and also attain good marks.
1. Master the basic fundamental concepts: It is
important to understand what a topic is and its
significance in everyday life using the relevant
formulae and theories.
2. Strengthen your maths skills: Applying the right
formulae requires the student to have sound
mathematical skills such as Algebra, Vectors,
Angles and Trigonometry.
3. Simplify: When a Physics question is given, always
look for what information is present in point form
and then determine what needs to be solved
4. Use drawings: Majority of Physics questions
require a student to draw and then investigate what
formulae to apply. Always remember that drawings
increase marks in tests and examinations.
5. Use flashcards to study: Writing precise and concise
notes can help a student understand a concept well
as the brain processes the information readily. For
example, for a specific topic, a formula and an
example of a problem applying the specific formula
can be written.
The semester is fast drawing to a close and the English
Department has been busy with Exams and reporting.
Year 10s, 11s and 12s have finished their first round of
Exams for the year and should be reflecting on their
results and their achievements.
Year 7s are currently enjoying some time in the Library
during their English lessons. Competition is heating
up between the classes, as they earn points for their
reading, listening and borrowing of books! Fantastic to
see the Year 7s enjoying this program so much and the
Year 8s can look forward to starting a similar thing next
term.
Semester 2 courses are now underway and all students
should be looking to build on their successes and
address areas of need. We have after-school tutoring in
the A Block Break Out Area on Wednesdays from 2.30
- 3.30pm. All students are welcome to attend.
Kate Harris
Head of English
Humanities & Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences encompasses the four
subject areas of History, Geography, Economics and
Politics, which most students find both engaging and
challenging. This term the Year 7s are studying ancient
China and the Year 8s are studying Feudal Japan and
the Vikings. The Year 9s are studying World War I,
which is seen as a key component of the making of the
nation. The Year 10s have been completing a program
of study on careers which links to subject selection for
Senior School. Upon completion of this unit, students
have been moving on to the topic of economics with a
particular focus on economic issues that affect Australia.
What the curriculum sets out to do is to ensure continuity
across the year groups so that topics are not covered
twice. These units of study are set by the Western
Australian Curriculum and they ensure that students
are exposed to a breadth and depth of historical context
over their schooling lives. The level of engagement
demonstrated by students has been very pleasing.
All teachers are very busy at the moment collating
marks and writing reports. Students who have worked
consistently well will be rewarded with results that
reflect their effort. Our learning area looks forward to
the delivery of new units with a focus on geography
across the year groups in Term 3.
Marc Simojoki - HASS Department
Towards Tomorrow
Blueprint
Page 15
Community Notices
Love Where You Live
Community Expo
Saturday 13 June, 6pm to 9pm
at Wickham Oval, Wickham
If you are a newcomer to town or have
lived here for a while come and visit
the Wickham LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE
COMMUNITY EXPO at the Wickham
Oval to enhance your experience of
living in the region!
• Get in touch with local community
organisations and sporting groups
• Discover tourism services
• Connect with other locals and learn
about your local community
Host an info stall
This free community event will
provide a great opportunity
for community and sporting
JURXSVWRUDLVHWKHLUSURÀOHV
promote services and increase
memberships.
If you would like to get
involved please contact the
Community Development
Team on 9186 8555 or email
enquiries@karratha.wa.gov.au.
For more information contact
The Community Development Team on
9186 8555 or enquiries@karratha.wa.gov.au
Towards Tomorrow
Edition 4
Blueprint
Page 16
Edition 4
Community Notices
Burrup Rock Art
Join us together with
Guest Speaker Ken Mulvaney
Murujuga Marni: 'ecoding
the story of the Dampier
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Karratha Public Library
Thursday 2 July
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5:30—6:30pm
BookingV are Essential
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Phone: 9186 8660
Email: karratha.library@karratha.wa.gov.au
Or book at the Library Front Desk
MEET YOUR LOCAL HEROS!
This is your chance to hear first hand, various aspects of the job
undertaken by our SES Volunteers.
Donna Walker—Deputy Manager—Operations
Vicki Connolly—Operations Officer
Nathan Donald—Q Store Officer
Maria Manai—New Member
Gain some insight into what it takes to be an SES
volunteer. Join us to hear some of their experiences
and stories they will be sharing with you.
Karratha Public Library
Thursday, 25 June 2015
5:30—6:30pm
Reserve your seat today!
Phone:
9186 8660
E-mail:
karratha.library@karratha.wa.gov.au
Or make your booking at the Front Desk.
THIS IS A FREE PUBLIC EVENT
Towards Tomorrow
Blueprint
Page 17
Edition 4
Community Notices
r To u
pewrite
!
Ty
e Greaoton to
Th
s
g
n
Comi
Monday 20
Port Hedland J.D Theatre 7 pm
r
ibrary
your l
Tuesday 21
Newman Library 6pm
ERmUedM
N fD
y fame
JOH
V Co
19-30
ctor o T
Wednesday 22
Tom Price Library 6pm
Writer/A e Pilbara July Tom Collins
th
y
Touring E , Oz classic b
!
IF
L
ts
c
a
IS
g
H
C
portin
with SU
and sup
Thursday 23
Paraburdoo Library 6pm
Saturday 25
Onslow Library 7pm
Sunday 26
Panawonika Library 2pm
Monday 27
Dampier Library 2pm
Karratha Library 7pm
Tuesday 28
Roebourne Library 2pm
Wickham Library 7pm
Come and see the 100 year-old
Franklyn typewriter of Tom Collins
and tap away on K.S.Pritchard's
1930s Remington.
THE FELLOWSHIP OF AUSTRALIAN WRITERS WA
All Events Free
A nity Program
H
T
RA ommu
R
A
K
THE 15 C
0
6th - 17th July 2
GREAT FOR
ALL ABILITY
LEVELS
FREE!!
FOOD AND DRINK
PROVIDED!!
COME AND JOIN IN!
This program is all about making sport
and recreation fun with a variety of activities, games and challenges.
NINE DAYS OF INCLUSIVE SPORT AND RECREATION!
> Mon 6 July: Cooking 11am - 2pm at Yaandina in Wickham
> Tues 7 July: Sailing 12pm - 3pm at Hampton Harbour Boat and Sailing Club
Parents come
dressed to
participate!
> Wed 8 July: Basketball 10am - 12pm at Karratha Leisureplex
> Wed 8 July: Sailing 12pm - 3pm at Hampton Harbour Boat and Sailing Club
> Wed 8 July: Beatz Dance Crew 5pm - 6pm at Lotteries House
> Fri 10 July: Golf 2pm - 4pm at Karratha Country Club
Great range of
local community
activities
> Mon 13 July: Tee Ball 10am- 12pm at Bulgarra Oval
> Tues 14 July: Shotokan Karate 10am - 12pm at Karratha Leisureplex
> Wed 15 July: Beatz Dance Crew 5pm - 6pm at Lotteries House
Remember to:
Slip Slop Slap!
> Thurs 16 July: AusKick 10am - 12pm at Bulgarra Oval
> Fri 17 July: Synergy Dance 10am - 12pm at Karratha Leisureplex
TO REGISTER, CONTACT: Emma on (08) 9144 4748 or karrathainclusive@gmail.com
SUPPORTED BY:
Towards Tomorrow
Page 18
Blueprint
Community Notices
Towards Tomorrow
Edition 4