Literacy & Numeracy

 

We believe every child can become a confident reader and writer with the right teaching and support.

 

In Prep to Year 2, we use a structured phonics approach based on Decodable Readers Australia. Children are explicitly taught how sounds and letters work together so they can confidently read and spell words. Lessons are clear, step-by-step and build carefully over time to create strong foundations.

 

From Years 3 to 6, students continue to strengthen their literacy skills through the Word Origins program developed by SPELD. They learn about word parts, spelling patterns and where words come from, which helps them understand new vocabulary and improve both their reading comprehension and writing.

 

Across all year levels, reading and writing are taught explicitly every day. Students regularly review vocabulary, grammar and sentence skills to help knowledge “stick” and build fluency. Teaching is carefully tailored so students work at their individual level, with targeted support and extension provided to ensure every child is both challenged and supported in their learning.

 

Our goal is to equip every student with the skills, knowledge and confidence to read widely, write clearly and communicate effectively.

 

 

Numeracy at Kalinda

 

Our Numeracy program aims to build students who are curious, capable, and ready to apply their knowledge to real world problems. Our approach focuses on clear instruction, strong support, and meaningful learning experiences.

 

Mathematics is taught daily using a consistent whole-school framework. Students learn through:

 

• Daily Reviews: Strengthening understanding and confidence with key skills and previously taught concepts.
• Explicit Teaching: Teaching new skills and concepts through explicit instruction, worked examples and modelling (I Do)
• Scaffolded Learning: Providing support for students as they learn new concepts (We Do) as they gradually move to independent practice (You Do)
• Hands on exploration: Using a range of materials and manipulatives, including interactive resources, to assist with visualisation and connecting ideas. 
• Problem Solving: Bringing the real world into the classroom through tasks that encourage thinking, reasoning, and explanation.

Our numeracy program aligns with the Victorian Curriculum 2.0 and covers the key areas of Number, Algebra, Measurement, Statistics, Probability and Space. We monitor progress using a combination of formal assessments and ongoing classroom observations to ensure teaching is targeted to each student’s needs.