The Australian Education Times - October 2014

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Issue 11 • October 2014 • www.educationtimes.com.au

Free understanding the power of numbers is a critical part of all business.

Peter Horgan

CEO of OMD Australia

L O O H C S G N I OUTSTAND

n e e w a r Gir l o o h c S High

Scan QR Code to read digital edition

Focus on University:

Choosing the Right University

Literacy Corner: The Write Way

Science Lab:

Putting STEM back on the agenda

Success Story

THE NEWS CREW

Contents News and Views:

4

Outstanding School of the month:

6

Success Story:

8

Focus on University:

9 Focus on

ICT for Education:

12

Special Pull Out:

17

Schools Spectacular 2014

Girraween High School

Peter Horgan

Choosing the Right University

Coding: is it necessary in the classroom?

Helping students prepare psychologically for exams

University Top universities for your Teens to Study Abroad

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Career of the Month: 25 Multimedia

understanding the power of numbers is a critical part of all business Peter Horgan

Join us digitally via our social networks‌.

FOLLOW us

Literacy Corner: The Write Way

30 ICT For

Magic Maths: 31 Education Fibonacci science lab: 32

Coding: is it necessary in the classroom?

12

Putting STEM back on the agenda

Puzzle Pop:

34

Global Story:

39

facebook.com/theaustralianeducationtimes @TheAusEduTimes

Marilyn Vos Savant Contact us email : editor@educationtimes.com.au Phone: +61 2 8883 0750 Advertise email: advertise@educationtimes.com.au

Science Lab Putting STEM back on the agenda

When you see this symbol, check out our website for real life interviews and more info!

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education times

From the Editor

We are delighted to be releasing October issue of The Australian Education Times with all new articles and resources, which is most eagerly awaited and that arouses great interest within the communities of parents, educators and students.

I hope the array of articles and features in this issue will exhibit the seasonal glow of renewal and enrichment. We are trying to live up to the expectations of our reader’s interest from all the request and feedback we receive.

Please continue in doing so, and we will try to cover all your requests in the coming issues.

This month we are focussing on HSC. In this section, we have included studying strategies and techniques and ways to deal with HSC stress.

Quotes of the Month Stop searching the world for treasure, the real treasure is in yourself

- Pablo

Doesn’t matter if the glass is halfempty or half-full.

All that matters is that you are the one pouring the water

- Anonymous

reporters. This interview can also be viewed online at www.educationtimes.com.au .

As always, please stay in touch and keep sending all the request and feedback to me at editor@educationtimes.com.au .

Girraween High School is the outstanding school of the month. Congratulations to all the staff and students.

Thanks to Peter Horgan, CEO of OMD Australia, for his time in sharing the secrets behind his success with our young

Whether you’re a schoolchild or a CEO, persistence is the factor that will allow you to make the most of your natural ability

- David Van Rooey

The Australian Education Times would like to acknowledge the Darug people who are the traditional custodians of this land. I would also like to pay respect to the elders past and present of the Darug nation and extend that respect to other Aboriginal people present.

Letters To Editor Dear Editor

Thank you for the insight on using social media at school. As a parent, I can now see the educational benefits of using it to complete school work Jane, Baulkham Hills

Dear Editor Happy Birthday. Great magazine! Keep up the great work Mr Kumar, Campbelltown

Dear Editor

I would like to see an article on studying for exams. Is this possible?

[Ky, this issue is dedicated to studying! Hope it helps. All the best in your exams. Noelene] Tianna, Parramatta

The Australian Education Times is dedicated to providing relevant and up-to-date news and resources that can be used in the classroom or at home. If you would like to contribute to our magazine, please write to Noelene at editor@educationtimes.com.au All contributions are to be 300 words long and to include a photo that is saved as a jpeg.

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education times News and Views

Come along and celebr beauty of our country 3,600 performers from 400 public schools 33 Featured Artists, 2,000 dancers, 1,300 voice choir FRIDAY 28 & 29 NOVEMBER 2014 QANTAS CREDIT UNION ARENA

School s r a l u c a t c e p S 2014 m.au/

ular.co http://www.schoolsspectac

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014 marks the 31st Anniversary of the extraordinary Schools Spectacular. The year’s celebration will be held at the Qantas Credit Union Arena (formerly known as the Sydney Entertainment Centre) with four performances being held on Friday 28 & Saturday 29 November.

Since its inception in 1984 this inspirational event has grown to become a highlight on the Sydney entertainment calendar, 4 |

shining a spotlight on the talents of NSW public school students.

This year’s theme THIS IS AUSTRALIA will unite audience and performers in a celebration of the beauty of our landscape, our support of one another in the most trying of times and our leadership on a global scale.

The organisers of Schools Spectacular are bursting with pride this year as they celebrate the success of 2014 The Voice winner Anja Nissen. Anja was one of several finalists on The

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Promotion

rate the

Voice who have performed as Featured Artists in previous Schools Spectaculars.

Schools Spectacular Creative Director, Sonja Sjolander said: “The joy of performance and the value of striving for excellence are central to the 31-year tradition of the Schools Spectacular. Anja Nissen highlights what an amazing training ground the Spectacular is for young musical talent. Anja will return as a mentor to guide and motivate the Featured Artists and encourage every performer to seize opportunities and strive for success.”

In terms of sheer size, scale and scope, the Schools Spectacular is unequalled in the world. This iconic cultural event involves students of varying ages, cultures, skills and socioeconomic backgrounds, hailing from country, metropolitan and isolated regions of NSW. It is regarded as one of Australia’s most popular annual variety shows, and this year will feature 3,600 students from 400 NSW public schools: a 1,300-voice choir; 80-piece symphony orchestra; 2,000 dancers; plus rock, jazz, brass and marching bands.

The Schools Spectacular delivers outstanding, cutting-edge youth dance and musical performances. It showcases the brilliance of the most talented singers, dancers and musicians in NSW public schools and incorporates stateof-the-art sound, lighting and staging.

Young performers have the opportunity not only to perform in front of a live audience of thousands, but also to be seen nationally in prime time courtesy of the Nine Network.

Schools Spectacular alumni include international artists Human Nature; musical director, pianist and composer John Foreman; 2013 The Voice finalists Diana Rouvas and Darren Percival; ARIA winners Paulini and Angus and Julia Stone; musical theatre stars David Harris, Lucy Maunder, Amanda Harrison, Julie Goodwin and Trevor Ashley; composer Gavin Lockley and country singers The McClymonts, Felicity Urquhart and Darren Coggan.

The Schools Spectacular also features the World’s Biggest Classroom exhibition, displaying the work of public

school students in public venues. This year seven Sydney train stations and five Westfield Centres along with the Qantas Credit Union Arena foyer will display the work of NSW public schools and students.

The Schools Spectacular is presented by the NSW Department of Education and Communities.

The event is proudly supported Major Sponsor the University of Western Sydney in association with Staples and Teachers Mutual Bank.

Tickets on sale tuesday 2 september at 10am Where: QANTAS CREDIT UNION ARENA (formerly Sydney Entertainment Centre) 35 Harbour Street, Darling Harbour When: Friday 28 November 12noon & 7.30pm Saturday 29 November at 1pm & 7.30pm Prices: Adult from $40.00 to $70.00 | Concession from $30.00 to $55.00 Family Pass (2 adults + 2 children) from $110.00 to $195.00 Bookings: www.ticketek.com.au or phone 132 849 www.schoolsspectacular. com.au www.facebook.com/ schoolsspectacular Media enquiries: contact Amanda Buckworth, AB Publicity M: 0413 949 140 E: amanda@abpublicity. com.au The Australian Education Times

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education times Outstanding School

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irraween High School is an academically selective, coeducational high school located 30 km west of Sydney’s CBD and is part of the Greater Western Sydney region.

The school was established in 1976 and is operated by the Department of Education and Communities (DEC). The school has 760 enrolments from Years 7-12. The first intake of academically selective students was Year 7, 1989 and we are now one of 17 fully academically selective high schools in New South Wales.

Our school motto has always been Mens Conscia Recti or Mind Aware of Right and with this in mind we recently developed our core values – Aspire, Respect and Unite. These were developed by the student body in partnership with parents and staff. Aspire reflects the need and desire to aspire to excellence in one’s life and not just in the pursuit of scholastic excellence. Respect is the need to respect other people, listen to them and accept them as they are. Unite refers to the unity that exists between students, parents and staff and the wider community.

Academic excellence and high expectations are a high priority in our school community and this is reflected in the outstanding results achieved in Higher School Certificate examinations and NAPLAN testing. Students also participate in a broad range of competitions including the Titration Competition, Geography Competition, Maths Olympiad, F1 in Schools, Debating, Writing and Poetry competitions. Students participate in debating challenges, chess programs and creative writing competitions. The F1 in Schools Competition requires students to design, market, build and race a miniature Formula 1 car. Our school regularly participates in the State finals each year with success.

Students perform at exceptionally high levels in the Australian Mathematics Olympiad Committee (AMOC) Challenge. This is an intensive enrichment program and Girraween students often receive High Distinctions and these awards highlight the outstanding abilities of the students at Girraween.

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Girrawe High School

An Accelerated Science Program is provided to students who have a keen interest and aptitude for Science. In Year 9, selected students are taught a compressed Stage 5 Science curriculum and in Year 10 they study the Preliminary course in Chemistry. The Higher School Certificate Chemistry program is completed when students are in Year 11.

Our holistic approach to student learning is underpinned by an awareness of the unique cognitive, social and emotional characteristics of gifted students. Girraween High School supports and enhances the mental health and academic growth of academically gifted students to enable each individual to

complete their studies feeling confident, satisfied with their efforts and ready to pursue successful tertiary study. Students and staff also participate in camps including Transition to High School for Year 7, a Peer Support Training Camp for Year 9 and a Year 11 Crossroads Camp. These experiences are rewarding for both staff and students.

Student well-being and academic excellence are fostered through a comprehensive approach to positive education principles including resilience programs and mentoring. Mentoring programs are undertaken in Year 11 and Year 12 and students are assigned staff mentors. The role of the mentor is to provide guidance in a range of key areas so that students are able to navigate their Higher School Certificate journey feeling supported by their dedicated and talented teachers. We have also introduced a Positive Education Model in 2014. This model includes the concepts

ween of self-efficacy, mindfulness, mastery, grit and meaningfulness to the development of positive character and well-being and is inclusive of all staff and students.

Students have several leadership opportunities available to them including the Student Representative Council, Prefects, House Captains and House Leaders, Newsletter Team, Peer Support Leaders, Social Justice, and the Multipurpose Centre Technical Crew.

Students also regularly lead fundraising events for charities including Jeans for Genes Day, the World’s Greatest Shave and the Cancer Council.

Students participate in extra-curricular activities including the global leadership program High Resolves that operates in Years 8-10 and provides students with real world experiences both locally and globally as they strive to develop creative solutions to problems.

The annual Music, Art, Drama and Dance (MADD) production is an opportunity for students to showcase their many talents in the creative and performing arts. Music is a prominent feature of our extra-curricular program with stage bands, ensembles and jazz bands regularly performing at school events and competitions.

Since 1994, we have held a Sister School relationship with Hisai High School in Mie Prefecture, Japan. Each year, students from both schools travel abroad to develop new friendships and to enhance cultural and educational links between the two schools. This year we have also commenced the tradition of a History study tour to Europe where students visit key historic sites in Italy, Belgium, Germany and France. These excursions are an important part of our co-curricular program.

Physical activity is a valued part of a balanced curriculum with high participation rates amongst students.

Swimming, Athletics and Cross Country Carnivals are well attended and other sports including volleyball, basketball, cricket, badminton, netball and tennis are popular amongst students in our weekly sport program and at representative levels.

Girraween High School actively encourages and supports a Bring Your Own Device program whereby students are able to use their own laptops in classrooms and on the school’s Wi-Fi network. Technology is fundamental to communication at our school with parents having access to a Parent Portal and the school App. This ensures that all members of the school community are well informed about key school events.

In addition, parent information evenings are held to provide parents with helpful information about choosing subjects and supporting their children in an academically selective environment. Our Parents and Citizen’s Association enriches our school community by participating in a range of school events and fundraising for initiatives.

A comprehensive Careers Program provides guidance for students as they plan their path post school. Students participate in mock interviews, work experience and workwise programs.

Australian Business Week is an opportunity for Year 10 students to run a mock business over five days under hypothetical business conditions.

Girraween High School has a strong history of acknowledging major celebrations including Harmony Day, Spirit Week, Naidoc Week, Anzac Day and Multicultural Day. These events bring the entire school community together as we celebrate our unique place of learning.

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education times Success Story

Peter Horgan In this issue, Maya from THE NEWS CREW had the fantastic opportunity to speak to Peter Horgan,CEO of OMD Australia, a giant within the Australian media industry, and discover how he achieved his success.

Please tell our viewers about your schooling?

I was born in London and went through the UK schooling system. When I was 15, my parents decided to move me to a boarding school called Millfield with smaller class sizes. My parents Immigrated to Australia, and they settled in Perth. I came to join my family, and I ended up going to Curtin University where I did a business degree.

At what point did you decide that you wanted to work in the media industry?

I wanted to get into business, but the economy wasn’t very good. There were no jobs in the banking sector. I had a friend at the time who said that a media company was hiring, so I wrote my CV saying that I always wanted to be in media, and I went along. I was lucky enough to get the job; it was just a good luck that I fell into media.

How do you feel your education experiences have defined the man you have become today?

Building deep friendships and working out support structures for how people look after each other was a very valuable lesson in my educational upbringing. Also, understanding the power of numbers and how maths is a critical part of all business.

What have been some of your bigger failures, and how have you learned from them?

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I think the failures that I look back on are where I have possibly let people down. You become too focused on a new business target or a client demand, and you push your team too hard to forget the human side of the teams that are working for you and are doing their best.

What do you think has set you apart from others in the media industry?

Be consistent. Stay the same in how you treat your clients, the TV companies, the people you’re buying media space from, and being fair to all those different groups that you deal with on a day to day basis.

What skills do you consider important when working as part of a successful team?

Trust is the first part, and the second part is that you have to have different skills that you both bring.

How do you keep yourself motivated?

I try and focus on what I enjoy about my job. There are things that are fun and things that you just got to do, so you need to reflect on your job in its entirety, and remember the things about it that you like.

Who is your inspiration?

I look at Bill Gates as someone who behaved consistently through his career.

He made a big impact on the world. He built the windows Microsoft business,

which is almost on every computer on people’s desk these days.

Social media is continuing to grow in popularity worldwide, what are your views on social media?

It’s a big leap of faith for companies to open themselves up to social media.It’s not one-way message, it’s a conversation. People are much more engaged in a conversation than when they are just being talked at.

The term ‘successful’ is used a lot.

What do you consider being ‘successful’ mean to you in your career and life in general It’s making an impression on the industry I’ve chosen to work in. I constantly think that I run OMD, but I’m running it for other people. It’s like it is on loan to me and how I’ll be remembered for how I behaved on my watch in charge of OMD and what kind of company I’ll leave behind.

What advice can you give to our thousands of viewers, who are planning a career in the media industry?

The first thing is knowing what you’re getting into. It’s a client service business, so we spend other people’s money, we try and do that in the best possible way we can but the fundamental thing you need to do is understand the clients.

To watch the full interview visit www.educationtimes.com.au

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education times Focus on University

Choosing the Right

C

hoosing the right university can be a very big decision that requires a considerable amount of careful thought. It will impact upon how your career, future wealth and general level of happiness pans out in adult life. Picking one that suits your needs and personality perfectly can help you to achieve your goals and provide job opportunities and career development in the direction you wish to head. So what should you look for in a university? How do you choose the right one for you? Here are some tips to help the decision making process run smoothly.

Talk to other students The best way to gain a true insight into all aspects of university life is to ask people who have or are currently experiencing it. They will provide the best perspective on university life and a great source of honest advice, whether it is positive or negative. They can inform you of important things such as quality of teaching, job prospects and housing, as well as social things such as sport teams, societies and nightlife. It is important to remember that some students may have a very narrow view of university life. So ask as many different students as possible from different degree subjects and cultural backgrounds, in order to paint a true picture of that particular university. With that being said, below is a list of some key areas worth questioning students about.

Quality of academics Job prospects Facilities Quality of housing Accessibility Social and nightlife

Visit university open days After listening to advice from past or current students, this is best next step.

It is a great way to form your own opinion on a university by checking out things, such as quality of housing and accessibility, first hand. However, it is important to remember that when attending an open day the university will be trying to sell itself at any opportunity. This is obviously not always the case but it is still sensible to be wary of this fact. The best way to approach this is to compare what you discover, with what other students have told you or written in online reviews.

Conduct your own further research It is useful to have an idea in your head about what course and career you wish to pursue. This way you can check whether particular universities have connections with the industry your career falls into, what scholarships are on offer or whether they accept TAFE credits as an entry into the course, and what admission requirements they might have in place. Finally, you should call employers from the industry you wish to work in and find out what their opinion is of the graduates from the particular university you are thinking of attending.

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education times FOCUS ON UNIVERSITY

Top Universities for Your Teens to Study Abroad:

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or a parent, access to higher education is the most impotent channel for shaping a teen’s future career. It is a fact that the university that a person is enrolled in has unarguable influence on the skills imparted on the learner.

Furthermore, it influences the chances of employment as employers usually have interest on the reputation of the university from which a graduate is coming. The top universities are

University of Michigan: It is the oldest university in Michigan and has two satellite campuses in Dearborn and Flint.

It is a public research institution and is therefore suitable for courses that require intense research.

It is ranked 24th in research institutions globally.

At the moment, the university’s population is slightly less than 43,500 students.

Students from abroad are charged more tuition than local students and this has the effect of increasing fee payable.

University of California, Los Angeles: It is ranked 44th overall in all universities across the globe.

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Just like the University of Michigan, University of California, LA is a public research institution and therefore inquisitive knowledge can be acquired here much easily.

The university emphasizes on extra curricula activities and traditions.

There are annual music and sporting events organized and attended by high profile individuals in the fields.

The university has arguably the best alumni association which sponsors university events and competitions.

University of Cape Town: It is located in Cape Town, South Africa in one of the most serene environments of Africa.

It is a public institution and most of the policies are based on the central government’s higher education regulations.

It has a student population of about 24,000 out of who 15,000 are undergraduates.

This shows that more emphasis is put on teen education.

America niversity in Cairo: Located in Cairo Egypt, most of the social environment around this university is Arabic and Islam.

This means that Sharia laws could play an important role in the life of a student in America University in Cairo.

It’s annual undergraduate research program and other exhibitions of art nurture and recognize talent and academic skills in learners.

National University of ingapore: It is popularly known as NUS. It is located in Singapore, the sovereign city which also forms Singapore the country.

Its Bukit Timah campus is one of the most recognized law institutions in Asia and globally.

The NUS Entrepreneurship Center is an incubation for training young and upcoming scholars on all matters to do with business innovation and creativity.

This gives a learner an almost perfect environment for nurturing and developing business skills.

The niversity of Hong ong: It has 10 academic faculties.

The main language of instruction is English.

This allows incorporation of all students, including those who do not understand Chinese. Before admission, students must apply online through a joint admissions board referred to as JUPAS. The application is subjected to scrutiny.

Enrollment for foreign students is at the rate of 8% (with respect to local students).

Most of the discussed universities are in countries which have relaxed entry policies or the case of American universities (University of Michigan and University of California, Los Angeles) one can get easy access through the esta programme.

Nancy Elizabeth

Words of Wisdom Studying Overseas

1

Talk to your university or institution. Most institutions have a department of qualified professionals who specialise in overseas study and can provide you with information on program eligibility and how to apply, as well as answer any questions you may have about studying abroad.

2

Research countries and institutions where you may want to study. Be sure to consider such factors as language barriers, cultural customs, safety, and

the cost of living when choosing your destination.

3

Explore the different options of studying overseas. You may want to go for a few weeks or a whole year. You may want to spend your time overseas conducting research, completing an internship or volunteering for a non-government organisation.

4

Create a budget.

The overall cost of your academic adventure abroad depends on its duration, the distance you travel and

the requirements of the program or course that you undertake. Keep an eye on the exchange rate for your desired country, and find out the types of financial assistance you may be eligible to receive from your institution or the Government.

5

Be prepared! Don’t leave it to the last minute to sort out your passport, visa, travel insurance, or vaccinations. It’s also worthwhile to register for Smartraveller (http://smartraveller.gov.au/) so the Government can keep track of you and your trip.

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education times ICT for Education

Coding: is it necessary in the classroom?

C

oding, also known as programming, is giving a computer instructions to follow in a language that it understands. It can be as simple as programming a short sequence of instructions into a robot to make it move, or as complex as creating an app using a language called Objective-C. Political leaders and technologists believe it is important for the current generation to learn to code, so that in the future we have people with the necessary skills to create the new technologies we will need. This is going to be great for our economy in the future, but there is much more to it than this: it’s also empowering, creative, social and great for developing problem solving skills.

Empowering Children in the 21st century have grown up surrounded by technology - they are intuitive users of contemporary hardware, such as consoles, PCs, and tablets, and software like word processing packages, apps and games.

With advanced design now commonplace, it is no longer easy to see how things are made or how things work. Gone are the days of plugging bits and pieces together to create a functioning computer, or typing in commands to run a game.

Children are great consumers of modern seamless technology, but we need to get them thinking about how things work and teach them how to create it. We need to turn them from consumers into creators.

From September 2014, the new computing curriculum comes into force for all schools in England and, as a result, children from Year 1 to Year 9 are to be taught more programming. They will,

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amongst other things, be taught how computers think, how to control them and how to create programs and debug them. There are a lot of teachers and schools who are ahead of the curve and already doing this extremely well - but the statutory nature of the new curriculum means all children will soon have the opportunity to learn these skills.

At the moment, girls take less than 10% of computing A-levels, and women hold less than 20% of technology jobs in the UK. It is hoped that by opening the doors to all at a young age, inequalities like these will be lessened in the future.

Creative and social Everyone knows the stereotype of a geeky male programmer hacking away in their bedroom. Part of welcoming everyone to learn coding is to throw this stereotype out of the window.

Far from being a solo pursuit for the naturally nerdy, it can be a highly collaborative, creative activity that anyone can have a go at and succeed in. The Key Stage 2 pupils I’ve taught to code have worked in small teams to create amazing games, animations and websites using visual programming languages like Scratch and written languages like HTML. Often the work we did was related to the topics we were studying - from

games about Tudor Britain, to websites about habitats. Far from an expert myself, I’ve gone on the journey with them and learnt a lot as well.

After beginning their learning in the classroom, some of them have gone onto extra-curricular activities like Code Club and Young Rewired State. I’m hoping the initial interest generated from classroom activities will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Problem solving skills Teaching children to code should not be our sole aim. When learning to program, children are picking up crucial skills, the most obvious being those to do with problem solving. When creating a game with Scratch for instance, children need to frequently test their work and fix bugs. This skill is so useful and transferable to all other areas of learning. Dr Tom Crick, a computer scientist and chair of computing at a school in Wales, sums this up nicely when he says: “Learning how to program is not the endpoint, but part of the journey of equipping children with the necessary digital skills to solve problems. Our high-level aim should be to develop technology-independent skills and techniques, such as data literacy and computational thinking.”

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education times ICT for Education

and Code Club allow students to create games consoles for free The Google Rise program has donated $100, 000 to a Code Club and Technology Will Save Us-led initiative designed to get kids creating their own games consoles. This has led to opportunities to 900 children across the UK thus far, as Code Club attendees will be able to receive the Technology Will Save Us DIY Gamer Kit for free.

T

he kit retails at £60, and allows pupils to solder together 40 parts on a custom circuit board in order to build their very own handheld gaming devices. These Arduinopowered consoles can then be programmed from scratch, encouraging users to get creating their very own exciting games. The Code Club trainers will teach electronics, soldering, programming and design using resources made specifically for the project.

that makes a difference. We’re invigorated by Code Club and Technology Will Save Us’ work, and we look forward to partnering with them to inspire the next generation of computer scientists.”

Code Club is a nationwide network of volunteer-led after school coding club for pupils aged 9-11. Founded in 2012, they have over 2000 clubs throughout the UK teaching children how to make computer games, websites and applications.

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We’ve had fantastic success teaching children to code in our clubs since 2012,” said Rik Cross, Head of Education at Code Club, “and we’re really excited to be able to give them the opportunity to learn physical computing too. Programming devices to interact with their surroundings is an engaging, hands-on way to learn coding.”

Google has a critical role to play in making Computer Science more accessible and inclusive globally, especially for girls,” added K-12 Outreach Program Manager at Google, and program lead on RISE Awards Hai Hong.

“

This education is key, not just for developing tech sector talent, but for creating technology

We are thrilled to be working with Code Club and it is exciting that Google is enabling these kinds of partnerships,” said Technology Will Save Us CEO Bethany Koby. “This collaboration draws on the strengths of both organisations, and allows us to enable thousands of young people and hundred of volunteers to become digital makers using electronics and programming as tools for creation.

We believe people learn best on and off the screen, on and off the technology. So we see this pilot as a stepping stone into creating best practice resources to bring 21st century skills to clubs everywhere!”

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The Australian

education times ICT for Education

Harnessing the power of film in the classroom

I

n a world where the moving image is becoming increasingly dominant it makes sense to acknowledge film as the richest of educational resources, with the capacity to broaden young people’s horizons, enrich their learning experiences and raise attainment. Film has extraordinary production values in which art, science and technology meet.

The synthesis of art forms to tell compelling stories, and the enormous historic, literary, geographic, linguistic, cultural and social value and relevance these stories embody, which speak across age, class, gender and background, render film an invaluable tool for educators.

This is a medium that is accessible to all, regardless of ability, with the power to

Film to Support Literacy One of the most valuable applications of film in education is its potential to support traditional and visual literacy. Encouraging young people to watch, discuss and review films, as well as developing film literacy is a powerful way to enhance their speaking, writing, listening and critical skills - particularly in the case of those who usually struggle or lack motivation in these areas. Related literacy activities, too, are beneficial, from writing a voiceover for a scene that has no dialogue or an account of a scene from a particular character’s viewpoint, to writing a persuasive letter to the British Board of Film Censorship (BBFC) regarding a film’s certification.

Some of my boys who are reluctant writers are eager to complete film reviews and do so to such a high quality that I was pleasantly surprised, as they do not show that level of capability in class.”

Sam Linton, Deputy Headteacher.

Boys often engage more effectively with visual learning and film is the perfect medium for this. Writing about what they have seen seems to stimulate them more than writing about what they have heard or read.” Teacher and film club leader

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bring to life aspects of the curriculum which some students may consider dull, portray themes from science to Shakespeare in a different light and inspire disengaged pupils.

Feedback from teachers that run school film clubs shows that regularly watching, discussing and reviewing films helps to develop a range of skills, which are valuable in their own right and are associated with wider academic attainment, including: Independent thinking Improved Literacy Critical Analysis Broader Cultural Awareness Vocational aspiration Confidence and social skills

Film is also a powerful tool to engage pupils with reading and support the teaching of English literature. Studying film adaptations of books – whether it’s Wizard of Oz or Roald Dahl, Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo and Juliet, or adaptations of popular texts like Animal Farm, Great Expectations and Pride and Prejudice, all of which will feature in the new curriculum – can shed new light on plot and character, highlight themes that haven’t previously been considered and inspire students who find certain texts or writers challenging.

Film to Engage and Inspire Film, supported by high-quality teaching resources, is a great way of promoting discussion around many curriculum topics at all Key Stages, from Primary to Sixth Form. Whether screened in their entirety, or through the use of relevant, carefullyselected clips that show a particular situation or behaviour, films can help to engage pupils in deep learning, which aids in the retention of information, tackling difficult subjects and sparking debate about a broad range of issues. All of this contributes to raising attainment. In history, for example, films can be used in

discussions to interrogate sources and to support subjects ranging from World War I and slavery to The Cold War, The French Revolution, America and The Mayans.

Watching and discussing a film like Paper Clips (U) is an age-appropriate way to introduce younger pupils to the Holocaust, while for older pupils films like In Darkness (15) or Shooting Dogs (15) are thought-provoking ways to raise the subject of genocide. Equally, pupils could be encouraged to reflect on climate change after a screening of An Inconvenient Truth (U) or Encounters At The End of the World (U), or immersed in another language and culture through a foreign language title to aid language learning, which from September 2014 will be compulsory for primary as well as secondary pupils. And in PSHE, films ranging from Dumbo (U) to Rebel Without A Cause (PG), Mean Girls (12), Maria Full of Grace (15) and In Real Life (15) are excellent ways to start conversations about sensitive subjects such as bullying, e-safety, underage sex, drinking and drug use.

Films are an excellent way to bring to life different periods in history, introduce a complex topic or engage pupils in subjects they may think are boring,” says one teacher. “Our film club introduces children to a variety of films that encourage them to think about contentious issues,” says another.

Filmmaking too – from scriptwriting and storyboarding to making a short documentary about historical events or the local environment - is an interesting and creative way to inspire young people and help them develop a range of academic and social skills, from writing and research to design and technology, creativity and team-building.

As well as bringing subjects to life, broadening young people’s horizons and stimulating their imaginations, film – and the act of sharing it with others – has the power to raise aspirations, break down barriers and increase empathy and tolerance. For every teacher in the UK, opportunities to use film and filmmaking in class - to enhance learning at all levels and support the new National Curriculum - are available as never before. Now’s the time to embrace them.

“

By Jane Fletcher Director of Education at Into Film

The Australian

education times Promotion

Kindle for

A

new app that gives you access to the world’s largest selection of eBooks on your compatible Samsung device is here*. Kindle for Samsung is great for Australian primary, secondary and tertiary students who want to read on the go. In partnership with Amazon, Kindle for Samsung has everything students can expect from the standard Kindle app, plus they can download a free book every month from the Samsung Book Deals selection. **

Samsung So why use Kindle for Samsung?

Kindle for Samsung can provide students with the opportunity to read from virtually anywhere, with downloaded books available offline.

Kindle for Samsung can be downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Apps store on compatible Samsung smartphones and tablets^. Existing Amazon users simply use their Amazon account details to login and begin exploring. For new users it’s easy and quick to create a new account.

With the Kindle for Samsung app, you can choose a free book every month from the Samsung Book Deals selection!** Access the world’s largest selection of eBooks Time to Read estimates how much time it will take to finish a chapter or a book based on your personal reading speed.

Whispersync synchronises your reading across your compatible devices^.

Worry-Free Archive automatically backs up your Kindle books in the cloud,# including all your previously purchased Kindle eBooks.

There are several benefits to using Kindle for Samsung in classrooms and in education: -Students are able to download books at virtually any time on their compatible device* -Students are able to focus on the vocabulary within the book or article they have selected, as they are a click away from finding out the definition of the selected word -Learning new vocabulary can help support improvement in reading comprehension skills, as well as understanding more difficult texts.

* Internet connection required. Data charges may apply. Content within Kindle for Samsung must be purchased and is subject to availability. ** Internet connection required. Data charges may apply. Kindle for Samsung app only available on compatible Samsung devices. Samsung Book Deals only available to customers who sign in with a Samsung Account. ^ Internet connection required. Data and subscription charges may apply. # Internet connection required. Data and subscription charges may apply. Usage is subject to cloud provider agreement.

The Australian Education Times

| 15

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

The Australian

education times

SATURDAY

4

2014 August Calendar SUNDAY

2

3

1

WORLD HOMELESS DAY INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE GIRL CHILD

WORLD ANIMAL DAY WORLD SPACE WEEK

18

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF HAPPY TAILS DAY NON-VIOLENCE

WORLD POST DAY

17

WORLD CEREBRAL PALSY DAY

7 KEN WARBY SETS THE CURRENT WORLD WATER SPEED RECORD OF 317.60 MPH

16

NATIONAL NUTRITION WEEK

ACT TERM 4 SA TERM 4 TAS TERM 4 WA TERM 4

10 H 11

6 NSW TERM 4 QLD TERM 4

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CHILDREN’S WEEK

9

5 LABOUR DAY NT TERM 4 VIC TERM 4

14

GREEN AND GOLD DAY

8

WORLD TEACHERS DAY

13

NUDE FOOD DAY

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12

WORLD STANDARDS DAY GLOBAL HANDWASHING DAY

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30

SPAEC SHUTTLE CHALLENGER LIFTS OF FOR ITS FINAL SUCCESSFUL MISSION

JEAN-PAUL SARTRE IS AWARDED THE NOBEL PRIZE FOR LITERATURE, DIWALI BUT TURNS DOWN THE HONOUR

THE GARAGE SALE TRAIL

WORLD OSTEOPOROSIS NATIONAL KIDSAFE DAY DAY

29

TURKEY OPENS A SEA TUNNEL CONNECTING EUROPE AND ASIA ACROSS THE BOSPHORUS STRAIT IN ISTANBUL

NATIONAL BANDANNA DAY

31

UNITED NATIONS DAY

MOTHER TERESA IS BEATIFIED BY POPE JOHN PAULL II

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PINK RIBBON DAY

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THE FIRST ELECTRIC GENERATOR AT HOOVER WORLD DAY FOR DAM GOES INTO FULL AUDIOVISUAL OPERATION

My Reminders:

A special pullout to help students and parents beat the HSC exam stress

Helping students prepare psychologically for exams

How does the HSC work?

Ways to deal with HSC stress

The Australian

education times

PULL OUT

G

ood study habits are vital for putting students on a path towards educational excellence.

However, there are a wide range of psychological issues confronting students which can inhibit their academic performance. Teachers and parents should try to identify the underlying attitudes and perceptions that are inhibiting academic performance, and stimulate alternative attitudes and perceptions which can contribute to active participation in learning and studying.

Psychological fears Teachers should aim to offer genuine and relevant solutions to the hidden psychological fears that prevent students from attempting to reach their goals. Teachers tend to manage much of students’ learning in that they create lesson plans which adhere to the curriculum and are therefore designed to give students the knowledge necessary to pass exams. They may also offer guidance as to how to schedule periods of revision prior to exams.

However, far too often, teachers do not address the wide range of psychological issues that can inhibit and impact adversely upon students’ academic performance and success. They often even fail to teach in a manner that would encourage and enable the process of learning, preferring instead to simply lecture their students – the equivalent of throwing knowledge out and hoping that some of it sticks.

Learning can be greatly enhanced if students have the abilit y to manage the process for themselv es. To do this, students should: • Develop the ability to manage their time.

• Structure their study periods.

• Break-down large tasks into more manageable ones.

• Set achievable goals an d objectives.

• Persevere even under difficult circumstances.

• Establish ways in which they may monitor and measure the ir learning progress.

• Adjust their learning str ategies as necessary.

• Determine how they mi ght overcome any difficulties they encou nter in the process.

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The Australian Education Times

Helping stude psychologica Successful exam preparation involves developing successful study habits and overcoming those key psychological barriers. Patricia Orlunwo Ikiriko offers vital advice to help you prepare your students.

Sometimes students feel afraid that the study task at hand is beyond their capabilities and impossible to complete on their own. Rather than seeing it as a provocative challenge, they feel uneasy and emotionally battered when they fail. They become increasingly anxious when it comes to learning or facing new experiences.

Numerous studies have revealed that individual g differences exist amon the of ms ter in nts stude following constructs: • Self-concept (selfperception, which may be negative or positive). one’s • Self-efficacy (belief in h). hig or abilities, low • Self-esteem (selfconfidence, which may be low or high).

• Attitudes (summary evaluation of behaviour).

• Locus of control (the perceived causation of events, which may be internal or external to the self).

Each of these psychological factors is associated with either failure or achievement in academic contexts, emotional stability or instability, confidence or a lack of confidence, and psychological wellbeing or a lack of wellbeing, or even disturbance.

Understanding and creating an environment that is free from fear and threat will enable students to face up to the challenges of studying and learning, and master the ability to self-motivate when completing new tasks. Afterall, the overall objective of education is to both encourage and empower

ents prepare ally for exams students to develop the ability to think freely and rationally, organise themselves, time and their work, and to approach exams with confidence.

Students that graduate with the independent capabilities to set their own learning goals with the confidence of knowing how to achieve those goals are much better equipped to learn throughout their lives.

It is important to remember that learning is less about the simple acquisition of knowledge, and more about questioning, reasoning, understanding, and gaining wisdom. When someone knows how to learn, they become an active controller of their own learning rather than a passive recipient of education.

Learning environments learning time is The majority of students’ whether school, n, spent in formal educatio in turn means that college or university. This an educational the climate and culture of portant for the establishment is vitally im rning environment. creation of an effective lea is acceptable or Rigid strictures as to what dents than it will ideal will alienate more stu ly prove harmful to embrace, and will ultimate learning.

ture that When teachers create a cul nge, and personal embraces discovery, challe courage learning development, they will en those seeking to far more effectively than ues and thought. impose norms of dress, val and disengaged If a student feels alienated in the educational from the learning context end, their potential establishment that they att cepts, and to to master fundamental con skills, is likely to be develop effective learning adversely affected.

Key techniques To improve students’ academic performance, it is important for educators to teach techniques for improving self-evaluation, being more optimistic, self-confident, and taking responsibility for one’s own study outcomes.

Certain skills that are taught will not only help students succeed in their academic careers, but also aid them various aspects in life. It is essential to instil the right techniques for improving attitudes, such as starting each day in positive state of mind to improve

personal productivity. By doing so, students will be able to develop a good understanding of themselves, redirect a disruptive attitude towards a more constructive one, and enhance the mental connections they have already established.

For the teacher, helping students in such a way will ensure that the class is fully engaged and individuals feel encouraged to respect the teacher’s authority. Overall, the teacher’s ability to engage students will allow for better recall of principles, create an engaging, enlarging and enriching of experience and provides understanding of the various strands that make up a topic.

10 tips for good study habits • Develop attainable goals for your studies. These will serve as your ultimate motivator when things get tough.

• Make a study plan by simply writing down how you can attain your goals daily, making lists is a key part of the planning process.

• Don’t succumb to fear and procrastination.

• Adopt the 80/20 rule: put in a few hours of serious, concentrated study, eliminating distractions and focusing on your workload. Remember to give yourself time for your own interests and commitments.

• Multi-tasking can have a negative impact on academic performance – focus on one task until completion, rather than doing many things simultaneously with only partial attention and fractured intention.

• Adhere to your study schedule with expectations of a specific result.

• Identify your own particular learning style and develop effective study techniques. This may include develop devices like mind-maps. Various studies have found that mindmaps appeal to both sides of the brain: they are linked and logical to keep our “left brain” happy and yet are clever and creative to appeal to our “right brain”. We use our brain optimally when we can satisfy both hemispheres.

• Use the correct study methods and strategic timemanagement.

• Hard work is crucial to educational excellence, so imbibe discipline, decision, determination.

The Australian Education Times

| 19

The Australian

education times

PULL OUT

How does the HSC work?

The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is a certificate that recognises the successful completion of secondary education in New South Wales. It is a valuable qualification that is often necessary for advancing to university or TAFE institutes or entering the world of work.

What are HSC courses?

There are four different types of courses (or subjects) that students can choose from to make up their HSC:

1 2

Board Developed Courses These courses are examined by the Board of Studies and contribute to a student’s ATAR.

Board Endorsed Courses These courses are developed by schools, universities and TAFE institutes. They count towards a student’s HSC, but they are not examined and do not contribute to ATAR calculation.

3

Life Skills Courses These courses are designed for students with special education needs. They count towards a student’s HSC (provided the student meets general HSC eligibility), but they do not contribute to ATAR calculation.

4

Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses These courses can be studied through school, TAFE or other registered training organisations.

Some of these courses may be mandatory for work placement.

VET courses contribute towards the HSC, and some Board Developed VET courses can contribute to ATAR calculation if students choose to sit the optional HSC exams.

20 |

The Australian Education Times

How do I get the HSC? In order to get the HSC qualification, students must: Complete Year 11 and 12.

Complete the HSC within five years.

This is to cater for the different needs, capabilities and commitments of students.

Fulfill HSC course requirements 12 preliminary units (usually in Year 11) 10 HSC units (usually studied in year 12) Course selections must include at least 6 units of Board Developed Courses, two of which must be English.

3 courses must be of two units or greater and a minimum of four subjects.

Note that to gain an ATAR, students need to be studying at

least ten units of eligible Board Developed Courses.

Satisfactorily complete all courses by applying themselves with ‘diligence and sustained effort’ to the course’s set tasks and experiences, and achieved some or all of the course outcomes. Students must have made genuine attempts at completing at least 50% of school-based assessments.

How is the HSC assessed?

The HSC is assessed on a student’s marks in school during the HSC year and their performance in the HSC examinations.

School-based assessments and HSC examinations have equal weighting (each encompassing 50% of the final HSC mark). Thus, the average of school marks and marks in the HSC exam will determine a student’s HSC mark.

When will I get my HSC results?

Students receive HSC results in December and will have HSC documentation (including a HSC testamur, a Record of Achievement and Course Report for each Board Developed course) posted to them in January.

What is the ATAR? The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) was introduced to nationalise the Year 12 university ranks across Australia (with the exception of Queensland). The ATAR is used by higher education providers around the country when deciding whether to offer a place to a prospective student, and is calculated

by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).

The ATAR is a percentile rank against other candidates across the state, derived from study scores from HSC studies and, where appropriate, VET programs and extension studies. Some VET units result in a study score that contributes to an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) for university entrance, while others contribute to HSC only. Students completing the International Baccalaureate (IB) are also given a ranking.

Parents and students can find further information by visiting the UAC website.

The Australian

education times

PULL OUT

Ways to deal with HSC stress

C

ompleting the HSC can be a stressful time for Year 12 students and their parents. Apart from o finding time to balance their part-time jobs, social lives and studying, Year 12 students are often under constant pressure to make their career aspirations, as well as meeting personal academic goals and family expectations. As the HSC exams approach, many Year 12 students are likely to succumb under immense stress of studying for their final secondary exams, increasing the chance of developing more serious mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Although some students are able to perform optimally under the pressures during the exam period, others may become severely distressed, affecting their ability to concentrate, stay motivated, and achieve the marks they deserve in the exams. Thus, it is essential that HSC students learn to manage their stress and anxiety levels through an effective study and time management strategy.

10 ways to manage time and studies during the HSC

1

Clear your study area of any distractions It is important to study in a quiet place that is free of distracting stimuli. Turn off your phone and avoid studying in noisy areas, or with friends that you know will only disturb you. Your local library may have specific quiet rooms for students to use before and during the HSC exam period. Be sure to study in a room with good lighting as this will increase concentration.

2

Time management Set aside a generous amount of time for study and set small, achievable tasks for the day.

Avoid cramming or rote-learning information in the last minute.

3

Take regular short breaks Once in a while, get up and move around.

This will help get your blood circulating and replenish your brain cells, helping you feel refreshed and with better ideas.

4

Exercise and eat healthy Exercise helps blood flow to your brain, helping your mind function at its peak.

Remember to drink plenty of water.

5

Avoid caffeine Energy drinks and coffee may give you a quick hit of blood sugar that keeps you awake, but it doesn’t necessarily increase your concentration. When the sugar high wears off, you may even end up feeling worse than before. Taking short naps and sleeping 8 hours a day will help you focus.

6

Stay positive Think about the best case scenario for yourself and don’t let negative thoughts discourage you from studying or performing well.

7

Beware of alternatives Look at the bigger picture and remember that there are many other pathways into many career options. The HSC exams will not be your first and only chance of getting into your desired career or tertiary education program.

8

Ask your teacher If you are unsure about how to complete a task or you don’t understand specific aspects of a topic, ask your teacher. If needed, ask for extra time to complete your work.

9

Talk to a parent Most parents are great listeners with your best interest at heart. They are supportive and encouraging. Ask your parents to release you from household chores until the intensity of your studies are over.

10

Talk to a counsellor Counsellors can help you put your thoughts into perspective. School counselors are available to listen to your concerns. If you feel stressed, lack focus or concentration or are feeling discouraged, talk about it with a professional.

The Australian Education Times

| 21

The Australian

education times

Promotion

West End

W

Mazda

est End Mazda is Australia’s oldest independently owned and operated Mazda Dealership having been established and continually operating in North Parramatta since 1963. West End

Mazda has been owned and operated by just 2 families in its time.

In 1998, the current Directors of West End Mazda expanded their operation by acquiring Blacktown Mazda which further strengthened our focus and commitment to the Mazda Brand in NSW.

West End Mazda is currently the Number 1 selling Mazda Dealer in Australia and has done so on 8 occasions since 1994. We have been the Number 1 selling Dealer for Mazda Passenger Vehicles consecutivley since 2003.

We are proud to have multiple members of our Sales & Parts teams achieving “Master Guild Member” status in the prestigious Mazda Sales Guild. In 2014 both of our Sales Managers, our Parts Manager & 2 of our Sales Consultants acheived this status!

With the largest Parts MAZDA department in Australia we CX-9 also carry a full range of CLASSIC Genuine Mazda Parts & 2WD Accessories. We also carry large stocks of Aftermarket accessories ensuring our customers can personalise their Mazda to their tastes.

All Mazda Passenger http://www.westendmazda.com.au/vehicles/cx-9 vehicles come with a comprehensive 3yr/Unlimited Km with our Pre Owned Managers who are warranty. always looking for Mazda vehicles to All Mazda Commercial vehicles come meet the needs of our customers. Pre with a 2yr/Unlimited or 3yr/100,000 Km Owned customers can even enjoy a very warranty. special fixed price service plan exclusive Click onto our New Cars page to book a to West End Mazda. Just pop in and see test drive or give us a call on; either Billy @ Nth Parramatta or Glenn at North Parramatta 1300 924 584 Blacktown.

Blacktown 1300 874 394

New Cars

Pre Owned

From the moment you enter our Sales showrooms you’ll be greeted with a friendly Zoom-Zoom smile & sales people who are provided with the best training to ensure that we meet and exceed your expectations every time you visit us.

We have the largest range of new Mazda vehicles in stock, carrying over 400 cars at any given time. Both of our Sales departments carry the complete suite of fully registered demonstrators for test drives at your convenience. Our sales teams will, by appointment, even bring our demonstrators to you at any time if you are unable to visit one of our new vehicle showrooms.

As with our New Cars our Pre Owned sales teams are put though a rigorous training With access to our business partners program to ensure that they also meet Esanda Finance, Capital Finance and and exceed your expectations.

AGI (Automotive Global Insurance) West West End Mazda carry ex Mazda End Mazda is able to offer extremely Australia company vehicles to ensure competitive Finance packages for Leasing, that if a new car is just out of your price Commercial Hire Purchase, Chattel limits, we have the next best option. These Mortgage’s and Consumer Loans together vehicles come with the balance of new with a vehicle warranty so your peace of mind is guaranteed.

If you or a friend has MAZDA6 a Mazda that you 2.5LT PETROL are trying to sell SEDAN please drop in SPORT for an obligation free valuation http://www.westendmazda.com.au/vehicles/mazda-6

West End Mazda is also proud to the most awarded Dealer in NSW with: • 15 Mazda Master Dealer Awards inc 2013 • 5 times Winner of the “Martec Excellence in Dealership Operations” award • 2 Dealer of The Year awards (Pre Master Dealer Conception) • 2 Parts Dealer of the Year awards • 1 Sales Dealer of the Year award • 1 Service Dealer of the Year award • 1 Commercial Vehicle Dealer of the Year

22 |

The Australian Education Times

Finance and Insurance

WEST END MAZDA

IS AUSTRALIAS BEST MAZDA DEALER

http://www.westendmazda.com.au/about comprehensive range of Insurance products including highly attractive Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Insurance.

Our aim is to make doing business with West End Mazda enjoyable and hassle free whilst upholding the highest levels of Customer Service Standards in the Automotive Industry.

For more information please refer to our Finance and Insurance Page and click to call one of our team to speak directly to someone during business hours 7 days per week.

Service West End Mazda operates 2 Service centres with the latest in Mazda Electronic & Diagnostic equipment to ensure that your Mazda is running at its peak in terms of Safety, Performance and Economy.

Contact details and Hours or Operation are: 3 Ferris Street North Parramatta Phone - 9633 8300 Email – pmservice@westendmazda.com.au Monday to Friday 8am to 5.30pm Saturday 8am to 12noon 3 Butterfield Street Blacktown Phone – 9622-9888 Email – btservice@westendmazda.com.au Hours of operation Mon – Fri 7am to 5.30pm and Sat 8.00am to midday.

Bookings can be made online either by our i-Phone app (download via App Store) or here on this Website (just click the service tab and follow the prompts).

Have you checked what your next service will cost?

Log onto Mazda’s website – http://www.mazda.com.au/owners/ servicing-your-mazda/recommended-

maintenance-service-price Input your details and see what your next service with West End Mazda will cost.

Both Service Centres offer a complimentary car wash at time of service, free wheel alignment check, brake check, battery check, customer waiting lounges incorporating Wi-Fi internet access, refreshments, Pay TV, loan cars at a nominal cost, as well as drop off to the nearest train station.

West End Mazda has Mazda Quick Smart Serving.

This is for all Mazda Scheduled Services and can be completed within an hour allowing you to get your Zoom-Zoom back on the road faster.

Spare Parts West End Mazda Parts Division is the largest in Australia and carries the most comprehensive range of Genuine Mazda Parts & Accessories.

If we don’t have it then chances are noone has it.

We operate from our site Monday to Saturday Monday to Friday 8am to 5.30pm Saturday 8am to 12noon 1 Ferris Street North Parramatta

All Service work is Fully Guaranteed and we only use Valvoline Premium Oils and Mazda Genuine Parts to protect the integrity and value of your Mazda and as trusted Mazda dealer we also provide the computer upgrades to your car via our MDS (Mazda Diagnostic Machine).

These upgrades are from the factory in Japan and can improve fuel economy and running. The MDS also allows up to diagnose any issues you are having and repair them in a timely fashion.

For your convenience both our North Parramatta Service Centre and Blacktown Service Centre are open Saturday mornings from 8am to midday. Bookings essential.

Phone – 9633-8383 Email – parts@westendmazda.com.au West End Mazda Parts also offers a Crash Assistance Line open 24 hours a day/ 7days a week. We are on hand to help with arranging tow trucks and ensuring we send your Mazda to a panel shop that is approved by your Insurancer & uses only Genuine Mazda Parts.

Contact details David Hubbard Business hours - 1300 924 584 or After Hours 0418 613 758

ALL NEW MAZDA3

NEO HATCH 2.0LT PETROL (MANUAL & AUTO) http://www.westendmazda.com.au/vehicles/all-new-mazda3 The Australian Education Times

| 23

The Australian

education times PULL OUT

Students I that stress-less perform better Research conducted by Edge Hill University and the University of South Australia show that pupils who do not worry about their exams are likely to perform better than those who stress about them.

24 |

The Australian Education Times

n a study involving 325 students, it was found that worrying about exams “significantly correlated” with bad exam performance, even when prior ability was taken into account.

“There is no doubt that a high degree of worry over one’s performance or the consequences of one’s performance, has a detrimental effect on exam performance” says Dr Dave Putwain of Edge Hill University. “Our study controlled for prior attainment and also how good students were at dealing with exam pressure and found that increased worry still predicted lower achievement.”

Another study, which aimed to investigate whether the anxiety could be reduced, involved students piloting a new on-screen self-help program called STEPS (Strategies to Tackle Exam Pressure and Stress).

STEPS includes videos of former students talking about how they coped, interactive quizzes and games, study skills, and the chance for pupils to practice anxietymanagement techniques such as deep breathing and “positive visualisation”.

A total of 267 14 to 16-year-olds completed an anxiety survey before and after taking part in STEPS. Their performance was then compared to a control group of 1,519 pupils. The results show that STEPS did not help students that were considered to have low or medium test anxiety, but it reported significant reductions in levels of stress in students that had high test anxiety.

STEPS is still in the pilot stage but the second study concluded: “On the basis of the available evidence, we are optimistic that test anxiety can be reduced using an ITdelivered, self-help program which does not require costly, specialist input.”

The Australian

education times Career of the Month

Multimedia ia Jobs Within Multimed include: Some of whichver tising)

Ar t Director (Ad Graphic Designer Web Developer Film/Video Animator Production Assistant Digital Photographer

A career in multimedia allows you to combine and balance both creativity and technological skills. So if you are an ideas person with a strong technological skill set, then multimedia is the field for you. A multimedia specialist is a unique role that requires a number of skills. Usually, they have: an aptitude for computing and design, artistic flair, the ability to follow instruction but also take control, a passion for the progression of new technologies, the ability to work under strict time constraints, an eye for detail and an appreciation for colour and form. A typical work project for a multimedia specialist involves the manipulation of audio, video, graphics and animation for multimedia application.

For example, computer-based training programs, data presentation, CD-ROMs, web sites, entertainment environments and educational tools.

What to Study To become a multimedia specialist it would be advised to obtain a degree in Information Technology, specialising in Multimedia Studies. Check institution handbooks for course information and entry requirements. Alternatively, completing a certificate or diploma in Information Technology with some focus on Multimedia Studies could provide you with the necessary attributes to pursue a career in this field. Entry on to a diploma course requires completion of year 12. Across Australia diploma courses are readily available through Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s), such as TAFE. It is also possible to become a multimedia specialist through an apprenticeship in Interactive Digital Media or Information Technology.

During an apprenticeship you will learn a wide variety of specialist skills on the job through practical application and relevant training.

Job Prospects and

Starting salary: $50,0

Senior salary: $93,000

Salary

00 P/A

P/A Average salary: $66,0 00 P/A

* Wages will vary acc ording to your level of skill, experience and emplo yer

You will undergo assessment Employment level: 11,100 as of Novemb and when fully competent er 2012 (Projected employmen t levels in 2017 of 14,80 will be awarded a nationally 0) recognized qualification. Entry requirements for apprenticeships can Employment by region: vary but usually completion of year The top three regions 10 is adequate. It is also possible to for employment as a do an apprenticeship whilst at school.

For more information ask your VET Multimedia Specialist or (Vocational Education and Training) Web Developer are: coordinator at school.

VIC: 35.4%

ormation For more industry inf essional of pr or a look at some ld, visit: associations in this fie sign Australian Graphic De Association au/ http://www.agda.com. r

The Australian Compute Society / http://www.acs.org.au

The Design Institute of Australia (DIA) au/ http://www.design.org.

NSW: 30.8%

QLD: 15.8%

Employment trends: Employment for Multimedia Specialists and Web Developers has risen by a rate of 71.7% over the past 5 years and is expected to grow very strongly through 2017.

Source: http://www.open. edu.au/careers/informationcommunication-technology/ multimedia-specialists-webdevelopers The Australian Education Times

| 25

The Australian

education times Promotion

Little BIG idea Top 12

12 Australian bright sparks move a step closer to winning innovation adventure to the USA

12

students from across the nation are a step closer to jetting off to NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre later this year after they were announced as finalists of the littleBIGidea competition, which aims to foster creativity and innovation in students from grade 3-8.

The competition, which attracted over 1,300 entries, aims to provide a platform for students to continue Australia’s rich tradition of innovation which has seen solar hot water, the black box flight recorder, the fridge and the bionic ear, amongst others, invented and developed on these shores.

The Top 12 ideas were selected based on an exceptional demonstration of originality, creativity, practicality, imagination and innovation. All finalists will now attend the littleBIGidea forum in Sydney on the 3rd October to present their idea to the judging panel and find out who the three overall winners will be. littleBIGidea judges include James O’Loghlin, former host of the ABC’s ‘The New Inventors’; Christie Burnett, Editor of popular parenting blog Childhood101.com; and Bernard Caleo, presenter of Origin ‘Energy for Schools’ shows.

“It was fascinating to review all of the littleBIGideas submitted by students to see what they believe will make life better or easier in the future,” said James O’Loghlin.

“After reading hundreds of entries, it is clearly evident that the next generation of Australia has an exciting, creative and innovative vision for the future. I’m really looking forward to meeting the 12 talented finalists at the forum,” he added.

Three overall winners will win a trip to Florida, USA to visit innovative hotspots including the Kennedy Space Centre, Epcot Theme Park - Walt Disney World Florida and Ripley’s Believe it or Not. Other prizes include $1,000 in education grants for each of the 9 runners-up; $4,000 to spend on energy upgrades for the 12 finalist student’s schools; plus tickets to an education conference for the teacher nominated by each of these students.

Origin National Community Partnerships Manager Amy Stockfeld said, “We are very impressed with the calibre of entries we’ve received for littleBIGidea. There were no restrictions on how big or small the idea could

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The Australian Education Times

be, which meant we received an amazing range of ideas - from inventions, to energy saving technologies to simple ways of making life a little easier.”

This year marks the 11th anniversary of Origin’s Energy for Schools program (previously called Energy Savers)– one of Australia’s most successful education programs with 40% of primary schools1 currently teaching the free online resources in their classrooms.

Origin will host the littleBIGidea Forum Friday 3rd October at the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney.

This year’s 12 littleBIGidea finalists are: CATEGORY 1: GRADES 3-4

Mia (VIC) - Fyans Park Primary School Mia’s littleBIGidea taps into the idea of recycling natural resources by using rain water to fill your car’s window cleaning water tank.

Mia breaks the idea down into two simple steps. There would be a separate tank fitted to your car that could capture the rainwater that runs off your car windscreen. This tank would be connected to the vehicle’s windscreen cleaning tank, and would use the rainwater instead of tap or bottled water.

With the average car’s windscreen cleaning tank holding approximately three litres of water, Mia’s recycled water storage system will make a positive impact on the environment.

Kye (NSW) - Boronia Park Public School For many 9 year olds like Kye, all they want to do is play games on their computer or tablet, while their parents prefer that at least some homework is done first.

Kye from Boronia Park Public School has found a way to set a healthy balance between work and play. His littleBIGidea is to install an ‘educational lock’ into devices like iPads that block users from playing games until they complete a series of educational questions or tasks, such as doing times tables, practicing spelling or answering grammar questions. Then it’s game on!

Kye admits he’s not sure whether giving the power to his mum with this ‘educational lock’ is a smart idea or foolish idea on his part!

Oliver (VIC) - Penbank School Imagine one afternoon per month where everyone in Australia turns off their electricity; a ‘tech free Tuesday’ that helps families spend time together and save money. In turn, this money saved could be used to buy solar panels for the 1 billion people in the world who don’t have electricity.

For Oliver, this social and economicallyfriendly energy-free evening is already a reality in his household. His littleBIGidea is to share his family routine with the rest of Australia.

“We do this in our family once a month from after school to bedtime. We play board games and chess instead of watching TV and use candles for light.”

Oliver says that there are more than 8 million households in Australia, so if every participating household could donate $2, then

enough money could be raised to provide plenty of solar panels to poorer countries. 3/6 Alexander (QLD) - The Southport School Alexander’s littleBIG idea will make hospitals and restaurants cleaner and also help detect those in the playground who might make you sick.

His idea is a clear nail polish that turns a yucky green colour when a person’s hands get too many germs on it to help identify when someone needs to wash their hands!

When his parents told him that washing hands stops himself and people around him getting sick, Alexander quickly pointed out that washing hands is only an effective germ-killer when everyone else is doing it too.

The game changing nail polish would save people unnecessary medical bills and improve hospital and food preparation hygiene. It would also work well at schools, with the green nails acting as a great reminder for students and teachers to wash their hands.

CATEGORY 2: GRADES 5-6

Olivia (QLD) - Nambour Christian College Tired of hearing her dad always complaining about having to mow the lawn, Olivia thought up a solar-powered lawn mower with auto assist technology as her littleBIGidea.

The mower has solar panels on top and other components hidden underneath, such as a battery to store the solar power, selfsharpening blades and 360 degree rotating wheels for cutting grass in all directions.

The mower is technically advanced with

pre-programmed cutting patterns and Bluetooth control that links to directional points in the ground.

All dad has to do is set the mower, sit back and admire his new favourite device in action!

Nicholas (NSW) Newington College In an effort to counteract obesity, Nicholas wants to keep the world fit, healthy and make people aware of the amount of time they spend on the computer.

Programmed into computers as part of the log in process, ‘The Origin Energy Fitness App’ asks users to complete some physical activity before they are allowed to access their device.

Each activity will earn you a different amount of ‘energy points’ and an ‘energy gauge’ will indicate the amount of screen time available.

“The more exercise done, the more energy points gained and the longer the computer can be used,” explains Nicholas.

He thinks it will make a great difference in schools, ensuring students to exercise regularly and moderate the amount of time spent in front of a computer screen. 4/6 Kern (SA) - Colonel Light Gardens Primary School Kern’s littleBIGidea came from a very serious question he asked himself: “What if there is a way to prevent a child drowning from happening in a swimming pool?”

Introducing the solar powered Pool InfraRed Sensor System! Positioned around the pool forming a cross-cross pattern of beams covering the water’s surface, infra-red sensors would monitor the water surface of any swimming pool or spa.

Kern explains “when a child has gone in without their parent knowing, the infra-red sensors will detect the body crossing the light beams, raising an alarm outside and inside the house.”

Alina (VIC) - Mt Beauty Primary School Finding your furry four-legged pal will be easier with Alina’s littleBIGidea, ‘Find My Dog’ - a GPS collar for pets.

Alina’s invention will make it much easier to locate escapee dogs like hers who often goes walkabouts! The collar contains a GPS that is accessible by an app on your phone.

It will even beep to alert you when your pet leaves the yard, and your phone can track real-time data on its location. Alina also sees the potential the GPS collar will have in farm animals, herds and endangered species.

CATEGORY 3: GRADES 7-8

Reece (QLD) - All Saints Anglican School Reece’s littleBIGidea is to use a sheet of real or synthetic tourmaline (a commonly occurring mineral/gemstone) as an interim charging

option, providing energy to people caught out with low battery power on phones and watches without access to a power outlet.

When negatively charged photons from the sun reach the tourmaline they are absorbed, working like an electric circuit to create pyro-electricity. Thanks to Reece, we might never be stuck with a flat battery on our mobile phone again – especially helpful during crisis situations!

Izabela (WA) - Perth College Every second that we wait for our morning shower to reach the perfect temperature we are wasting precious water. But Izabela is looking to change all that with her sensor connected shower base and pipes.

When you first turn on the shower taps and water hits the floor, pressure plates will activate and detect that no one is standing in the shower. While waiting for the boiler to heat up, water will be directed into a dedicated pipe for toilet flushing and other household uses. Once the sensors detect that a person has stepped into the shower, the recycled water pipe closes and the normal grey water pipe reopens, allowing waste water to be redirected into the regular outflow pipe. That’s a littleBIGidea that could save a whole lot of water! 5/6 Maxwell (NSW) - Kirrawee High School Every day we lose a significant amount of heat through building roofs. This got Maxwell thinking about smart ways to use or lose that heat, depending on the weather and a household’s heating or cooling needs.

Maxwell’s littleBIGidea focuses on keeping or releasing that heat via a roof system with rotating louvers. The louvers are painted black on one side to absorb heat energy and white on the other to reflect it. Special sensors detect rain and close the louvers when needed, keeping you cool when it’s hot, warm when it’s cold and dry when it’s wet.

Maxwell could be onto something, especially for locations that experience four seasons in one day!

Nadira (QLD) - Indooroopilly State High School Concerns about the high levels of both obesity and electricity use in Australian households led Nadira to think up the ‘Pedal Chair’.

No ordinary chair, the ‘Pedal Chair’ produces electricity to power the television when someone pushes the pedals – just like riding a bicycle. Attached to the chair is a chain that connects to a tube, crank arm and pedals that work to power the TV. Nadira’s littleBIGidea would allow people to enjoy their spare time watching TV while exercising at the same time.

The Australian Education Times

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education times literacy corner

The Write Way A

s a writer who teaches, I am aware of how kids learn to write, as well as what, when, and how they write. And I am very familiar with their attitude to writing.

Kids, in general, are very enthusiastic about writing when they are young. But the older they get, they seem to become more reluctant to write. Because of this, they don’t always develop their full potential as writers. Somewhere in their journey, kids seem to attach a negativity to writing so that, for some of them, the idea of writing for fun seems as attractive as the thought of eating a Brussels-sprout pie.

So what happens between the ages of six and sixteen that dramatically changes a student’s attitude to writing?

It’s a complex question with a network of cause and effect answers. But based on my personal observations, in and outside of the classroom, I’m going to narrow it down to one thing: pressure.

There is an ever-increasing amount of pressure placed on young people to achieve academically. As the curriculum narrows (which may or may not be a result of standardised testing) and teaching becomes more prescriptive, there is less time for teachers to allow students the time to write just for the sake of writing.

As parents, we want our kids to succeed, so we glisten to those better placed to advise us about how we can best support our kids, their classroom

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The Australian Education Times

teachers. As teachers, we know what students must learn to achieve ‘success’. But we are under pressure to fit everything in, our schools are under pressure to lift their NAPLAN results…. and so it goes.

Does this impact on students? I believe so. Kids feel the pressure as well. And it leaves them reluctant to take risks with their writing because they don’t want to disappoint anyone. They don’t want to be told their writing isn’t good enough.

They don’t want to make mistakes. The problem is, if they don’t mistakes, they don’t develop as writers.

If kids can learn to love writing, they’ll write for fun. And if they write for fun, without fear of failure, they become willing writers. And if they become willing writers, they are more likely to engage with the writing process in all its genres. If they can do this, they will become better, stronger, more capable writers, creatively AND academically.

I want to teach kids to love writing as much I love writing. I want them to know what it can do for them, how powerful it can be, and how rewarding it is. I want kids to value writing and (of course) reading as a pastime that has the potential to provide great joy as well as power and freedom in their lives.

And if they can feel that, even just a little bit, then not only do we have better writers, we have happier, more resilient kids, with better self-esteem who are more likely to take risks and reach higher.

by Khyiah Angel Khyiah is an author and teacher. She writes fiction for young adults and runs Writers’ Groups for students. Her latest novel, FAKE PROFILE, is about teen use of social media and is for children 11-15 yrs. It comes with a Stage 4 English (National Curriculum) teaching program and is available from Satalyte Publishing.

Khyiah can be found here: khyiahangel.com Satalyte Publishing can be found here: satalyte. com.au

The Australian

Education Times Magic maths

L

eonardo Pisano, later known as Leonardo Fibonacci, is one of the most famous mathematicians in history. Although you may know him best as being the creator of the Fibonacci number sequence, he is also acknowledged as the person who popularised the decimal number system in the Latin-speaking world (which had been using the Roman numeral system).

Born in the late 12th century, Fibonacci spent his childhood in North Africa where his father worked as a customs officer. He travelled widely in what is now known as Algeria, and was later sent on business trips to Egypt, Syria, Greece, Sicily and Provence. In 1200, he returned to his birthplace of Pisa, Italy, where he used the knowledge from his travels to write his book Liber Abaci (meaning “The Book of Calculations”).

At the time, Italy was made up of numerous small independent towns, and each region tended to have its own weight and money system. When trading with other towns, merchants made conversions using the Roman numeral system, which proved to be highly inefficient. Fibonacci’s book offered a solution to this problem by introducing the decimal number system.

He provided practical problems and worked examples which demonstrated how the decimal number system would make it mathematically and commercially easier for merchants to trade with others.

Although this was a significant achievement in itself, Fibonacci is best remembered for the distinct number sequence that appeared as worked examples in Liber Abaci.

By definition, the first two numbers in the Fibonacci sequence are 1 and 1, or 0 and 1, depending on the chosen starting point. Every subsequent number is the sum of the previous two.

Fibonacci • The rabbits never die.

• The rabbits can mate from the time they are one month old.

• Female rabbits give birth every month, starting from two months of age.

• Female rabbits always give birth to one female and one male rabbit.

Under these circumstances, how many rabbits will there be in one year?

At the start, there is 1 pair of rabbits.

At the end of the first month, the first pair of rabbits will have mated, but there would still only be 1 pair of rabbits.

At the end of the second month, the first female rabbit produces a new pair, so there would be 2 pairs of rabbits.

At the end of the third month, the first female rabbit produces a new pair, and the second female rabbit will have mated.

This means that there would be 3 pairs of rabbits.

At the end of the fourth month, the first and second female rabbits both produce a new pair each, and the third female rabbit will have mated. This means that there would be 5 pairs of rabbits.

From this, you will see the Fibonacci sequence emerging: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5 …

Following this pattern, the 12th month will give 233 pairs of rabbits.

Bees The Fibonacci sequence also occurs within real populations in nature. In any colony of

bees, there is one special female bee called the queen bee, which produces all the offspring for the colony.

Female offspring (called workers bees) are produced when the queen bee mates with male bees (called drone bees) from outside the colony. Worker bees do not produce eggs, so they cannot reproduce.

However, female larvae that are fed significant amounts of royal jelly will develop into queen bees to replace an existing queen bee or to fly away to start their own colony. Drone bees are produced by a queen’s unfertilized eggs, so all male bees only have a mother but no father.

Hence, all female bees have 2 parents, and all male bees have 1 parent.

Upon inspecting the family tree of a male drone bee, we will see that he has: • 1 parent (the queen bee) • 2 grandparents, since his mother would have had two parents, a male and a female.

• 3 great-grandparents, since his grandmother would have had two parents and his grandfather would have had only one parent.

As you can see, the number of ancestors a drone bee has follows the Fibonacci sequence. Thus, a drone bee must have 5 great-great grandparents and 8 great-great-great grandparents and so on.

For example: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89 …

1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144 …

Rabbits One of the mathematical problems that Fibonacci featured in Liber Abaci was about how fast rabbits could breed.

Suppose you place a newly-born pair of rabbits, one female and one male, on a field. He then took the following assumptions: The Australian Education Times

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The Australian

Education Times Science Lab

T

he past decade has seen a substantial decline in economic commitment and educational engagement within Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in Australia. Coincidently (or perhaps not so), the past 10 years has also seen the proportion of Year 12 students taking advanced mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology drop by almost a third.

Some suggest that Australia’s declining appetite for STEM endeavours is attributed to the fact that mathematics and science are optional subject areas in secondary school, which arguably relegates their importance in the eyes of young Australians. Further, the shortage of qualified mathematics and science teachers is resulting in lowered levels of student engagement, interest and academic performance – thereby discouraging students from continuing with STEM endeavours.

Other theories suggest that Australia’s STEM dilemma is the result of a national disinterest in science and mathematics, which is ascribed to the fact that we have simply forgotten the fundamental role that science and innovation plays in our everyday lives.

No matter what perspective you take, the disinterest and shift away from STEM endeavours in Australia is deeply concerning.

Putting on the a

Andrew Smith, CEO with 25+ years in education.

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Promotion

STEM back agenda So WHY is STEM importa nt?

On a national level…

a wealth of knowledge and information which STEM is the foundation contributes towards ou of r an innovative culture, an un derstanding of the d innovation is key to dri ving world. Every thing from the economic prosperity in mechanics and reasons today’s competitive glo be hind daily functioning bal marketplace. Despite to the complexities of Australia’s weakened technology, comes from an interest, STEM’s necessit un derstanding of STEM. y in growing the Australi Beyond the acquisition an economy and finding of essential knowledge , new solutions to old an STEM and in particular d new problems remains science, instils a sense the same. Just think of of intrigue in individuals , the recent technological and inspires us to think developments in educati on critically. To approach the that we are for tunate to world with a critical eye , embrace – now think if no t only helps to inspire we stop contributing and we innovation, but it also get left behind… In ord he lps us to understand er to remain a prosperous new concepts, make we llnation we must actively informed decisions and contribute towards globa pursue new interests. l innovation – and STEM So whether you become endeavours is where tha a scientist, or merely t understand and apprecia has to come from. te what science is and the integrity of it as a On an individual level… dis cipline, it will change STEM gives us the yo ur life for the better. opportunity to access

What can WE do?

ive, in order to reverse From a national perspect in we must inspire interest this declining interest – emma dil l lica cyc t ren p the cur Australia’s youth and sto turely stop participating whereby students prema a , as educators, each have in STEM endeavours. We ls of ge students in the marve responsibility to re-enga s. eering and mathematic science, technology, engin o tw on s nd pe de STEM Fostering engagement in t d inspiring resources. No an ng chi tea ed things: inspir tin las g principles but to instil a only to convey complex to the g minds are switched on passion. The more youn rd to more we can look forwa possibilities of STEM, the ovation in Australia. a prosperous future of inn mitted to providing At 3P Learning we are com ich encourage enthusiasm educational resources wh , nts. Our science resource and excellence in stude – s thi y ctl exa ing d to do IntoScience, is committe modating teachers and om acc , nts de educating stu ce in all. Through hugely inspiring a love of scien and nts, vir tual experiments engaging 3D environme fields les, IntoScience brings all deep contextual examp rning aneously expanding lea of science to life – simult cation and reasoning for through knowledge, appli and activity is mapped to all students. Every topic ace m, with a dynamic interf the Australian curriculu We nt. me ge ga en nt e stude to encourage and inspir the landscape of science ing ng cha to d are dedicate d the engaging and education in Australia, an do oScience is helping us to interactive nature of Int of tic and fundamental part that. Science is a fantas to be the avenue through education, and we need this. which students uncover

The Australian Education Times

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The Australian

education times

Puzzle POP

Spot the 5 differences

Crazy But True!!!!!

A crocodile can’t move its tongue and cannot chew.

Its digestive juices are so strong that it can digest a steel nail.

Laughter Zone!

Q. Why wouldn’t the shrimp share his treasure?

Q. What did the traffic light say to the car?

A. Because he was a little shellfish

A. Don’t look, I’m changing.

Q. What do you do with a sick boat?

Q. What do you call a guy with a rubber toe?

A. Take it to the doc!

A. Roberto Q. What did the big bucket say to the little bucket?

A. You look a little pail!

Linking Puzzle Pop to the Australian Curriculum Did you know that picture puzzles develop vocabulary, increase small muscle development, develop eye hand coordination, improve memory skills, increase problem solving skills, build spatial perception and build literacy skills.

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The Australian Education Times

Puzzle POP

The Australian

education times

Halloween Cross word 1

2

Across

3

4 5 7

6

8

Down 2. What day does Halloween proceed?

3. What religion are zombies commonly associated with?

4. Is a pumpkin a fruit or a vegetable?

1. Where does the fictional character Dracula live?

2. What fruit do people normaly bob for halloween?

3. What German word beginning with “P” means “ noisy ghost”?

4. Trick-or-treating can be tracked back to medieval times but what was it known as then?

7. What city in the USA was made infamous in 1992 by the witch trials that it held there?

Knock your brains Q. If a blue house is made out of blue bricks, a yellow house is made out of yellow bricks and a pink house is made out of pink bricks, what is a green house made of?

A. Glass

Q. What goes through towns and over hills but never moves?

A. A Road Q. What has Eighty-eight keys but can’t open a single door?

A. A piano

Q. What has a neck but no head?

A. A bottle

Q. With pointed fangs I sit and wait, with piercing force I serve out fate. Grabbing bloodless victims, proclaiming my might; physically joining with a single bite. What am I? A. A stapler

Record Of The Month HEAVIEST WEIGHT LIFTED BY . . .

Apparently, upper body strength isn’t enough for some. There are Guinness World Records for weight being lifted by many different body parts, the most bizarre of which are seemingly delicate parts of the human head.

The heaviest weight lifted by tongue is 12.5 kg by Thomas Blackthorne of the U.K. holds this record.

The heaviest weight lifted with an eye socket is 14 kg by Manjit Singh of the U.K. The heaviest lifted with both eye sockets is 23.5 kg by Yang Guang He of China.

For more info on this record and hundreds more, go to guinnessworldrecords.com *Answers can be found on our contest page at www.educationtimes.com.au The Australian Education Times

| 35

The Australian

education times

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The Australian Education Times

Pisces

October is a good month for you to take an action packed holiday. Your health is good, and you are experiencing an energy burst from somewhere.

This is just as well as you will have a very busy month, and you want to make the most of it. When you come back from your holiday, you will need to be ready to go again as the stars have even more in store for you.

Aries

It looks like your on top of your game during October 2014, and you are not only going to be very busy but you are also going to feel full of energy. Believe me Aries, you will need all the energy you can master this month.

Taurus

Taurus you will finally have some time to relax and take it easy. During the last couple of months family and friends have piled a lot of your plate, and is now time to re introduce the word NO into your vocabulary.

Gemini

Be careful around the first of the month, there could be something important which you have forgotten. Make sure you pay the rent or the mortgage.

Just do a little check list to make sure that you have completed all of those vital tasks as anything which you may forgot could come back and cause a problem for you.

Cancer

Your home life and personal relationships seem to have suffered a bit lately but they are now being revived again. It is not something which is going to happen on its own so you need to spend sometime working on it.

Leo

Positivity is a concept that you are very familiar with, and at the moment you are more positive than ever. You’re so optimistic and positive about life and things in general that it is spreading.

Virgo

You may experience some strains in your personal relationships this month.

It is not your fault but you need to be pro-active in sorting it out. Families are living organisms but they are not perfect. You expect everything to be perfect but life is not perfect, and people are not perfect.

Libra

There are a lot of new ideas and thoughts floating around in your head at the moment. That is absolutely great but you might need some help channeling your thoughts. It would be a good idea for you to try to calm your mind at the moment.

Scorpio

Gentle exercise is important to maintain your health. Don’t be tempted into extreme forms of exercise. Your body is beginning to feel the strain from your hectic life style. Calm, quiet walks will do, and make sure you get away for at least half an hour every day.

Sagittarius

There will be not be a lot of focus on work nor the home this month. You have spent a lot of time focusing on your home but now you feel you need to step out of your comfort zone.

Capricorn

October

You certainly have a lot of social activities planned during October. Most Capricorns enjoy being members of clubs, and also enjoy being active.

Aquarius

Horoscopes

Aquarius, you really need to look after and out for yourself this month. You are not normally accident prone but the month of October 2014 can be a difficult month.

The Austrailan

Education Times

Pictures September in

Double Trouble

US Open

Baby George may soon be a big brother, as its announced there is a new royal baby on the way

The final tennis grand slam of the year sees a new champion crowned as Marin Cilic proudly lifts the 2014 US Open trophy

September 11th Anniversary

Manly Jazz Festival

President Obama delivers a moving speech to remember the events on that day 13 years ago

NRL Finals It’s crunch time as the NRL Finals begin, sorting out the contenders from the pretenders

The sun begins to set, creating the perfect mood for these talented jazz artists

Cabramatta Moon Festival Performers defy gravity as Cirque Mother Africa treats Australia to a taste of Africa

Link to the Australian Curriculum Did you know that pictures help students self-correct when reading does not make sense by using pictures, context, meaning, phonics and grammatical knowledge? It also helps high school students to construct suitable data displays, with and without the use of digital technologies, from given or collected data. Include tables, column graphs and picture graphs where one picture can represent many data values?

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| 37

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Global Story

Marilyn

vos Savant B

orn August 11, 1946, Marilyn vos Savant is a magazine columnist, author, lecturer and playwright. Since the mid1980s Savant has had a unique claim to fame; one of the highest ever recorded IQs. In 1985, Guinness World Records accepted that she had answered every question correctly on an adult StanfordBinet IQ test at the age of just 10, giving her a corresponding mental age of 22 years and 11 months.

As a teenager, Savant worked in her father’s general store and wrote for local newspapers. She attended Meramec Community College and studied philosophy at Washington University in St. Louis but quit after two years to help with a family investment business. After having attained financial freedom to launch a career in writing, Savant moved to New York City in the 1980s.

Savant’s listing in the Guinness Book of World Records under “Highest IQ” from 1986-1989 drew nationwide attention. Guinness however retired the “Highest IQ” category in 1990 after concluding IQ tests were too unreliable to designate a single record holder. Intelligence testing has proved contentious ever since and many argue over what exactly it proves, how intelligence is defined and who designs the tests.

Since 1986 Savant has written ‘Ask Marilyn’, a Parade magazine Sunday column where she solves puzzles and answers questions on various subjects, from philosophy to mathematics.

Savant is also an executive at Jarvik Hearts, Inc., a company which manufactures artificial hearts for permanent and temporary use in the treatment of heart failure.

While she boasts the smartest brain in the world, many critics are unimpressed by Savant’s accomplishments and are quick to point out that her relatively modest achievements go to show that, as an indicator of achievement, IQ doesn’t mean much. Others argue that the knowledge of all that potential could itself become a handicap.

To her fans and other members of the world of high IQ, Savant is a prodigious, unusual talent who delights in solving problems. To her detractors, she is either trivial, someone who has squandered her gift, or proof, if they needed it, that IQ scores don’t add up to anything. Savant herself sees IQ tests as measurements of a variety of mental abilities and believes that intelligence entails so many factors that “attempts to measure it are useless”.

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