Study for Success: The Multitasking Myth

We may wish we could effectively do multiple things at once, but scientific research shows that people who claim to be ‘multitasking’ are really moving rapidly between two tasks. Unfortunately, this rapid switching appears to result in impaired memory and performance. Translated into an educational setting, a student keeping their mathematics assignment open on their laptop to work on in between other classwork, or completing homework questions whilst also watching television will complete work at a lower standard and retain less content than they would if they focused on one of these tasks at a time. Over the long-term scientists believe attempting to multitask during learning activities may lead to a reduction in attention span. For more on multitasking, visit the Science of Learning Research Centre’s multitasking information page: https://www.slrc.org.au/pen-6-multitasking-impairs-memory-learning/

For students studying at home it is important to set aside time that will be uninterrupted – free from television, social media, and other distractions. Students should focus on one task at a time. Designating a specific time frame to work on an assessment or homework task before moving on to the next may help maintain focus. Specific goals may also help mark the time to move on between subjects or tasks, as might using a timer.

To help with the distraction of social media consider using a focus app. There are many available. This article reviews a number of options that work on computers and mobile devices: https://zapier.com/blog/stay-focused-avoid-distractions/#freedom

NAPLAN

This week sees NAPLAN testing continue.  Well done to all students in Year 7 and 9 for their efforts in last week's Writing and Reading tests. Students will have completed their Conventions of Learning test today and Numeracy on Wednesday.

Students participating in NAPLAN are asked to bring their laptop power supply in on test days.

Earphones (not Bluetooth) are compulsory for NAPLAN testing. Students who present to the test session with bluetooth earphones or without earphones, will be sold a set - $6 charged to the students’ account. We urge all students to keep the earphones in their pencil case ready for testing sessions. The uniform shop has a small supply of earphones for $6. Earphones must have a 3.5mm standard jack. See images below. Wireless/bluetooth earphones (e.g. Apple air pods) are not compatible.

If you wish to withdraw your student from NAPLAN testing, please contact Megan Munckton, Middle School Coordinator, megan_munckton@shalomcollege.com

NAPLAN Catch up sessions

• Tuesday 21 March Period 1 in RI6 and RI7
• Thursday 23 March Period 2 in RI3 and RI4
• Friday 24 March Period 1 in MA7

Preparing for Assessment

As we approach the end of term many students will be working towards assessment. Parents are encouraged to work with their students to develop appropriate homework and study plans – the Record Book is a helpful tool for this purpose. A Homework Study Planner is included for each term (see p.44 and 45 for Term One). A monthly or term overview for your child’s study location at home is also a good strategy.

Parents can access upcoming assessment dates for their children via Sia. Each student has a “Due Work Calendar” that shows upcoming dates for checkpoints, drafts, and exams. To access this calendar for your child in the Sia Smartphone Application please select “My Shalom” and then “Due Work”. On the webpage, an option to select Due Work will show under your child’s photograph on the home page.

Learning Area Coordinators have assigned tasks in each faculty area and class teachers adapt these to specific days/lessons when applicable. Please be aware that some tasks with multiple components may be duplicated in the Due Work Calendar.

Academic Policies and Procedures

It is important to be aware that student assessment is regulated by Shalom’s Academic Policies and Procedures which can be found in the Student Record Book from page 13 to 26. This includes issues surrounding drafting, academic integrity, and non-submission.

Flowcharts outlining the processes required for students who miss an exam or wish to request an extension are on page 15 and 16. Please be aware that extensions need to be applied for in advance of the due date. Drafts are compulsory. Non-submission of a draft may lead to a student being asked to attend a Supplementary Session on Tuesday afternoon. Of particular importance is the requirement for evidence (eg. a medical certificate) for exams missed in all Year 11 and 12 subjects.

Please contact the Middle School Coordinator (Megan Munckton)  megan_munckton@shalomcollege.com or Senior School Coordinator (Larissa Scoles) Larissa_Scoles@shalomcollege.com with any questions regarding assessment submission.

Mrs Patricia Allen
Acting Assistant Principal – Curriculum
allenp@shalomcollege.com