Continuing to focus on vocabulary

 With the smaller classes (introduced at in Week 9 of Term 3) I have continued to focus on vocabulary acquisition. Having a maximum of 16 students per class has definitely made a difference (don't let anybody tell you that size doesn't matter!). 

Using deep diving and chunking continues to be beneficial to the students. Using literature circles where students are able to collaborate and work together embraces the Maori concept of tuakana-teina. The tuakana–teina relationship, an integral part of traditional Māori society, provides a model for buddy systems. An older or more expert tuakana helps and guides a younger or less expert teina. In a learning environment that recognises the value of ako, the tuakana–teina roles may be reversed at any time.