29 April 2016

Newsletter Articles

Principal's Report

The start of term 3 has seen Mr Wayne Lancaster join the Beerwah SHS team as Deputy Principal. As mentioned in the previous email Wayne has been working with the Department of Education in the "One School" management system. Wayne is very happy to be back in a school and I am looking forward to working with him in the future.

Twilight session focussing on Literacy/ Student Management.

This terms Twilight session focussed on the two key areas of the schools "Action Plan" for 2016. Members of the schools RAW team (Reading, Arithmetic and Writing) outlined the direction of the school is taking with the training of all teachers in the area of "Tactical Reading" throughout the year. A number of teachers spoke about how they have engaged students by using both our "Eagle and Wolf" strategy as well as elements from the Tactical Reading program. It was great to hear the professional conversations that were occurring around student learning through reading.

The second session saw teachers engaged in "Relational Conversations" that relate to practical situations that happen in class and that need to occur between teacher and student so that learning for all can occur.

Academic Coaching

Our Academic Coaching program has started this week with interviews being conducted with all our OP eligible year 12 students and their parents. The program looks to ensure that the students are as prepared as they can be for their senior year and to assist parents in understanding the OP system, the Queensland Certificate of Education and Queensland Core Skills test.

Parent Teacher Interviews

Our parent teacher interview night last week was very well received by both parents and teachers. It was great to see the constructive and positive conversations that were taking place on the night. It was great to see some students taking ownership of their learning and being in the conversations around their performance. If you were unable to attend and wish to speak with your child's teacher please contact the school.

NAPLAN

Parents are reminded that the Year 7 and 9 NAPLAN tests are rapidly approaching. The dates for the tests are May 10 -12 with catch up sessions on Friday 13 May. Families have received a letter outlining the essential information they need to know need to know. I would encourage all parents to have a conversation with their child around ensuring that their performance in these tests are a true reflection of their learning and doing their best over the 3 days.

School Musical

Do not miss the opportunity to see the best performers Beerwah SHS has to offer with the school musical "Popstars" next Thursday May 5 and Friday May 6. I am looking forward to the performances as I have been told that I might know most of the Lyrics from the 80's!

25th Anniversary

As you may be aware the school is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. As such a meeting to discuss possible celebrations will be held on Tuesday 10 May at 6pm in the Conference room prior to the May P&C meeting. All are welcome.

Anzac Day

Beerwah SHS once again acknowledged the significance of ANZAC Day in Australian history with involvement in a number of services. Our school service last Friday was outstanding with the students being very respectful during the ceremony.

We were very fortunate to have ex-servicemen Mr John Nisbett and Mr Charlie Dann along with Mr Mark McArdle MP, Member for Caloundra and Shadow Minister for Health join us for the ceremony.

A special thanks to each of our guests who participated in the ceremony by speaking to the students around the significance of ANZAC day and reciting the Ode.

Beerwah SHS was well represented at both the community services. At the dawn service the school was represented by Captains George Sneesby and Sharlie Dal Broi recited the poem "Here at Dawn" whilst at the 9am service Junior School Captains, Paige Eeles and Isabella Towers read out "One Hundred Years from Now" by Rupert McCall. Congratulations not only to these students but also to those students and staff who marched and represented Beerwah SHS.

Glen Robinson
Principal

The Youth of Forever –
By Isabella Towers – Mrs Price Year 9 History

The youth of today have not had to pay the price
Or even contemplate supreme sacrifice
The youth of today are not loyal
They will never have to see crimson blood on the soil
The youth of today will never lose a mate
They will get to determine their own fate
The youth of today will never understand
What it is like to fight on enemy's land.

The youth of yesterday had to pay the price
And even contemplated supreme sacrifice
The youth of yesterday were loyal
They saw deep red blood on the soil
The youth of yesterday lost a mate
And yet, did not get to determine their own fate
The youth of yesterday understood all they gave
Even all the way from their grave.

Wayne Lancaster

A big thank you to those students and staff that have made me feel welcome in the first couple as the new Deputy Principal at Beerwah State High School. Having been on the Sunshine Coast now since 1999 I look forward to working closely with all members of the Beerwah community. I strongly believe that all students have the ability to do well and will work closely with all so that they get every opportunity to reach their full potential.

At the recent Parent Teacher Interview evening, it was great to meet many parents and to see the number of parents taking an interest in their child's education and wanting them to do well. Working as a team to develop our young adults to succeed in future endeavours is a responsibility that all in the Beerwah community share.

Again thank to for those who have made me feel welcome since my arrival and I look forward to meeting many more parents and students in the future.

Wayne Lancaster
Deputy Principal

A Day to Remember

Last Wednesday, this young family's life changed forever. Gemma, the beautiful mum of 18 month old Chayse and partner of Chris had complications with her pregnancy and lost their unborn child Deegan. As a result, she ended up fighting for her own life. Tragically on the 25th April Gemma lost the fight and has left a void in the hearts of everyone that encountered her vibrant, yet gentle personality. Gemma was a loving partner, mother, sister, daughter and friend and she will be greatly missed by all who encountered her.

We are holding a fundraiser on Saturday 30th April to help raise money to support Chris and Chayse in this difficult time and to assist in their grieving without financial burden.

We are encouraging you all to come down to Glasshouse Mountains Tavern and dig deep to help this beautiful young family and celebrate the lives of both Gemma and Deegan. It's a family friendly event with something for everyone. Check out "A Day to Remember" on Facebook.

We need your support!

The event is to be held at Glasshouse Mountains Tavern, Saturday 30th April 2016, 12pm until 10pm

CHILDRENS ACTIVITIES WILL BE HELD BETWEEN 12PM AND 4PM, WITH A $10 DONATION GIVING EACH CHILD A FACE PAINT, UNLIMITED JUMPING CASTLE, 1 SAUSAGE SIZZLE AND DRINK.

HAMBURGERS AND SAUSAGE SIZZLE AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE BETWEEN 2PM AND 6PM
LIVE MUSIC – RAFFLES – AUCTIONS – STALLS - KIDS ACTIVITIES – BBQ – HEAPS MORE

We are in need of donations NOW… every small donation helps!!! These can be dropped direct to the Glasshouse Mountains Tavern bar staff or arranged with –

BEC 0403 959 080
SANDY 0457 615 452
DAVE 0405 101 448
JOSH 0411 565 808

100% OF PROCEEDS GO DIRECT TO THE FAMILY

Can't make the event and wish to donate money? Please go to the link below and look for "The Glasshouse Family"

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR YOUR KIND SUPPORT AND TO THE GLASSHOUSE MTNS TAV FOR HOLDING THIS EVENT

Master Teacher Update

Welcome back to term 2. It is exciting to see so many students engaged in their learning and working at their full potential. I have had the pleasure of walking through many exciting classrooms and am seeing exciting learning opportunities.

Teachers at Beerwah SHS were involved in a profiling sweep in week 2. Profiling is a confidential, non-judgemental coaching process that individually enables a teacher to reflect on effective learning and teaching strategies they employ. I would like to personally thank all the teachers involved in the process; this shows commitment to reflecting on teaching practice and therefore better outcomes for students.

At BSHS we have an intense focus on the teaching of reading. We have made this commitment to assist our students in a learning a variety of ways of comprehending the differing texts they read. We have trained all staff in the Eagle and Wolf strategy and if you have students in the junior school you may be familiar with this language already! I have included some information on this strategy below. Students work with challenging texts on a weekly basis and in order for them to engage with these texts, it is important that they have the decoding and analysing skills to understand the texts that they read. If you have the time, please talk to your students about the strategy.

Thank you to all the parents and carers who support our students to be the best learners they can be. Please support the school and our fantastic teachers by reading with your children or discussing what they are reading with them. If you would like more information about reading, please call me.

Samantha Burchall
Master Teacher

NAPLAN

Every year, all students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 are assessed on the same days using national tests in Reading, Writing, Language Conventions and Numeracy, as part of the NAPLAN program.

This year, your student will participate in these national tests on Tuesday 10th, Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th of May.

Please make a note of the test dates and see that your child does so in their school or personal diary.

The students are currently, as a part of their regular studies, being provided with preparation programs around getting ready for the tests. Likewise data from previous NAPLAN tests has allowed us to shape our curriculum delivery to ensure we are teaching in the areas that the students need, as well as explicitly addressing the literacy and numeracy demands of the cohort.

Please ensure your child has the materials required to complete each test including; at least 2 x 2B pencils, 2 x blue or black PEN, an eraser, sharpener, ruler, and a scientific calculator. Please contact the school if you do not have access to the required materials.

It is important that your child arrives at school on time, having had a full and nutritional breakfast and that they bring water into the tests to remain hydrated. No electronic devices are permitted in the tests and will be confiscated as per the schools policies if used during the testing period.

Students who are absent for any test will sit make up tests on their return to school.

Some students will be exempt from the testing due to medical reasons, or as part of their Individual Curriculum Plans. Paperwork around this will be sent home and must be returned before Friday, 6th of May.

Parents may wish that their child does not sit the test due to philosophical, religious or personal objections. If this is the case, we request that you contact the school as soon as possible to arrange a meeting around withdrawing your student. It is important to note that the data gathered from this test is used to support your student, and Beerwah State High School strongly encourages all students to participate. Students not participating are still required to attend school on the test days.

Should you require any further information on NAPLAN or the school's preparation of students in the lead up to it in May, please do not hesitate to contact me through the front office, or visit the NAPLAN website below where you will find a section dedicated specifically to parents.

Jacob Connor
HOD Junior Secondary

DEB BALL September 2016

All interested Year 11 students interested in participating in this year's Deb Ball are invited to a registration/information night Wednesday 4 May at 7pm in the Anglican Annexe at the Mary MacKillop Catholic Community Centre in Peachester Road Beerwah. Registration includes dancing lessons. Students from other High Schools welcome. Inquiries: Pam Innes 5494 9536

Early Departures and Phone Calls

Should your child leave early on any particular day the preferred method of communication is with a signed note.

With over 900 students at our school, calls through the administration office should be for emergencies only – all other communication can be relayed with a note.

To explain a student absence:

• phone – 54365360
• Text- 0427730704
• Email – studentabsences@beerwahshs.eq.edu.au

Thanks in advance for using this preferred communication method.

Positive Behaviour For Learning

This term the school is implementing some new strategies to help teachers manage classroom behaviour. The first strategy asks students: Are you ready to learn? Teachers ask students a series of questions before they enter the classroom. By including these strategies this will help students be prepared for class and set them up to succeed.

The second strategy that is being implemented is a new Responsible Behaviour Plan. This plan is divided into coloured zones. The Green Zone will see students focused and actively engaged in the learning environment. The Blue Zone gives students a choice to stop and think about their behaviour. The teacher will ask a series of questions including:

What are you doing?
What should you be doing?
What will happen if you break the rules?
Is this what you want to happen?

The Yellow Zone allows students to modify their behaviour and the teacher asks the students some more questions which include:

How could you change your behaviour to work within the green zone?
What do you want to do now?
What will happen if you disrupt again?

The final zone is the Orange Zone. If students are not prepared to rectify their behaviour they are sent to the withdrawal room. Once students are sent to the Withdrawal Room they are asked to complete a reflection sheet. By completing the reflection sheet students are committing to doing or thinking about ways to improve their behaviour and sign an agreement to say that they will improve.

Focus of the Fortnight

Danae Richter
Acting HOD, Humanities

From the Guidance Officer

Career Pathways Night

Year 10, 11 and 12 students and parents are invited to attend the school Career Pathways Night on Tuesday 17 May, from 4pm to 7pm. This event will provide important information for senior school students on their subject selections and career pathways. A number of presentations are scheduled, including career pathways, SET Planning for Year 10, apprenticeships and traineeships, trade training centre and Careers Australia. School subject information will be available and representatives from TAFE, QUT, USC, University of Qld, ACU, Qld Police Service and employment and training organisations will provide information and be available to answer questions.

All sessions will be held at Headspace, 1/27 Evans Street Maroochydore. Entry is at the rear of the building. Please note: ParentSpace is a no cost program with tea, coffee and refreshments provided.

Please call Louise Bowden at IFYS to register your interest in attending any of the above sessions on 5438 3000 or email lbowden@ifys.com.au We hope to see you there!

Helping Students Develop Effective Study Skills

ELES Top 10 Tips for Students

1. HOME STUDY ENVIRONMENT

• Ensure you have an organised space for homework and study.
• Consider if the chair or the lighting in the room needs to be upgraded.
• Provide storage space and a noticeboard.
• You may like to have the Internet capable computer in the main part of the house; students can collect their research onto a memory stick and then use this to work on assignments on a cheap notebook computer (not connected to the internet) in their room.

2. ORGANISATION AND FILING

• Discuss with your student whether they use exercise books or folders and how well this is working for them. How do they manage loose sheets of paper?
• It is a great idea to set up a folder for each subject that stays at home – somewhere to file away past tests, assignments, and completed topics to keep everything together.

3. TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS

• Clarify with your students the concept that in secondary school students are expected to complete a set amount of schoolwork each night ( as opposed to just getting the homework done as quickly as possible)
• Juniors should be spending around 1 hour per night on schoolwork, seniors from 1.5 to 3 hours per night.
• Students should work on homework first, then assignments or test preparation. After this, students need to look for other things they can do to enhance their understanding of their subjects, such as making study notes, doing extra questions, revising earlier topics.
• It is best to either have a timetable with slots allocated to schoolwork or else have students do a certain number of half hour blocks each night.

4. MANAGING WORKLOAD

• Students should have a term planner visible in their room that shows due dates for tests and assignments.
• Check that students are using their diary as a planner by breaking down larger pieces of work and scheduling when they will do each step (this can be done in pencil so can be changed as needed).
• Some students may need help in chunking down tasks and putting together a plan to complete each step.
• Check how students keep track of the work they have completed and check that incomplete work is moved forward in the diary to the current day.
• If students are feeling overwhelmed, help them list everything they need to do and prioritise the tasks.

5. DEALING WITH DISTRACTIONS

• The best way to deal with distractions is to work in half hour blocks with no distractions during this time. This means during the half hour blocks allocated to schoolwork, no Facebook, TV etc – not for the whole night, just for those half hour blocks.
• The general rule with music is that if students are doing easy work it is ok, but for anything that requires concentration, particularly if there is memorisation involved, students should either switch off the music or have baroque classical music playing softly.
• Many families have an internet capable computer in the main living area where students can research and save information onto a zip drive, and small cheap notebooks not connected to the internet for students to use in their room.

6. IMPROVING CLASSROOM SKILLS

• Check at parent/teacher night who your student sits with in class and how well they work together. If it is not an effective partnership, request that they be moved to a different seat for future lessons.
• Have students keep a list of questions they need to ask their teacher and encourage them to ask these in class or make an appointment to see their teacher outside of lesson time.

7. SUMMARISING

• One of the biggest mistakes students make is leaving their study notes until just before their exams. One of the best habits students can adopt is doing their study notes throughout the year – at the end of each topic is a good time to do this. Whenever students don't have much homework, they should be working on study notes.
• Another mistake is writing too much and not breaking the content down into short key points in their own words. Have a look at the sorts of notes your students make and see if you can provide suggestions for improvement.
• Suggest your student takes any study notes they make to their teacher to have a quick look to check they are on track and see if there is any way they could improve the notes they are making.
• Students with handwriting issues may like to visit the link below to find out about a pen that could be useful!

8. ACTIVE STUDYING

• When studying, students should be using a wide range of study techniques.
• One of the biggest mistakes students make is just to read their notes over and over and hope it sticks in their head instead of testing themselves on the content.
• In addition to retaining the content, students need to practise applying the skills of the subject, doing as many revision questions and past exam papers as possible. You may like to look at purchasing an additional textbook in a different brand so that students have more questions to use as revision.
• If students struggle in an exam situation, they need to do more practice under exam conditions (i.e within time limits and not looking at any notes or answers).

9. LIFESTYLE AND BALANCE

• The most successful students are those with a healthy lifestyle and good balance in their lives. Think about the types of food your student eats, whether they drink enough water, if they exercise regularly and most importantly if they are getting enough sleep (amount needed varies but the average is around 8 hours).
• It is also important that students have time to do the things they enjoy, spend time with family and friends and also have 'down time' just to relax.

10. PERSONAL BEST

• Rather than having students competing with others, stress the concept of 'personal best'. The idea that, while not everyone can be at the top of the class, everyone is able to work towards achieving their own best results.
• A great read for all parents: 'How to Motivate Your Child for school and beyond' by Andrew Martin.

Jodie Runge
Guidance Officer

News from the Resource Centre

Year 8 Regional Readers Cup competition will be held at Immanuel Lutheran College on June 14th - be seated at 6.15 PM for a 6.30 PM start. Our school team will be finalized in the next couple of weeks so until then don't forget to keep reading the 6 titles attached. They cover a range of genre and are all interesting stories. Permission letters will be handed out in the next week.

Don't forget that the school subscribes to SPINEOUT magazine which features articles submitted by students from all around Australia. Young people may submit their book reviews, art work, poetry or any other creative piece via the website link on the schools website page under Facilities - Library.

Also, the school has purchased quite a few e-Books which may be borrowed. Students need to download the Wheelers App. to their device and then login using their school username and password to enable borrowing for a two week period. There are many "Classics" freely available as well.

Could you write a book in a day for cancer research?

Get your team of 5–10 together. Register your team in the primary, middle, upper division or open division. This is a fun, creative, team-building activity which is also rewarding, as it raises money for research into childhood cancer and gives books to kids in hospitals. A great activity for Book Week!

Write a Book in a Day runs until August 31.

Happy Reading

Mrs Read
Teacher Librarian

2016 Queensland Core Skills Test

Applications are open for Community Representatives.

To maintain the accountability, security and proper conduct of the 2016 QCS Test, the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) invites applications from community members for the positions of chief community representative and community representative.

This year the test will be held on Tuesday 30 August and Wednesday 31 August.

Applications close on Friday 20 May, 2016.

Position information and application forms are available for collection at the front administration office.

Ms Leanne Young
Head of Department Senior Secondary

Academic and Cultural Cup 2016

'Wimbledon and Roland Garros to host Beerwah High's Spelling Bee Tennis Tournament'

In a shock announcement, organisers have advised that the 2016 Beerwah High Spelling Bee will be co-hosted by the courts of both Wimbledon and Roland Garros. Mr Connor, one of the tournament directors stated, "We believe that last year certain houses were disadvantaged by all matches being played on one type of surface. Therefore this year, teams will be spelling on both clay and grass courts on the same day, which should lead to a more even playing field."

On a more serious note, nomination forms will be delivered to form classes next week. As per last year, teams of four will play each other, spelling words and using tactical plays such as power words, word reserves and team play cards. Matches are run resembling a tennis match, with the correct spelling of a word resulting in the point being kept alive. A spelling error results in the opposing team receiving a point. At any stage a player can opt for a tougher word and attempt a power shot, which results in a winner and an automatic point for the team if the player spells correctly. The tennis scoring system is used (00-15-30-40-Due-Adv-Game), with the match being a best out of three games format. The tournament also borrows from a tennis styled knockout tree, with winning teams progressing to the next round.

This year all matches for a particular grade will be played on the one day, with a champion team being decided by the end of the school day. Last year's tournament was a huge success, with 150 students taking part. There were smiles all round, with all those involved having a great time and enjoying the thrill of friendly competition. There are 60 points up for grabs for the winning team of each grade, 32 points for 2nd, 12 points for 3rd and 4th and 8 points for all teams that do not place. Each student is awarded one quarter of their team's points, which is a great start for any student endeavouring to take out the male or female champion for their year group and have their name added to the BSHS Scholastic Almanac alongside last year's twelve inaugural champions.

Speaking of champions, there has been a whisper of colour change in the winds that have been blowing through our school grounds this week. Tunbubudla currently have their mortar board sitting proudly on top of the beautiful Academic & Cultural Cup. However, if the 2016 cup was awarded today, the colour of another champion team would take pride of place at the top of the cup. Whether that colour is dark blue, yellow or light blue I'm not going to say. But don't start cheering too loudly just yet, as Tunbubudla are currently running second and are renowned for taking it right to the line. Just like last year, I'm sure they'll have a huge turnout at our spelling bee tournament.

So find your Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams; form a team and get ready to have a lot of fun!

By Peter Voigt (Academic & Cultural Cup Coordinator/Teacher Aide – Learning Support)

Notes from Indigenous Community Advisor-Aleccia Franks-Smith

The year is certainly flying by very fast. Our Indigenous students and their peers have been attending weekly meetings in the library at first break on Mondays. We continue to encourage ALL students to attend. This is where the Indigenous students can view their attendance and make sure that they are "Leading the Way" to achieving this each term's reward. We also discuss what upcoming events and extra - curricular activities that will be held in the future. Parents are also welcome to attend from 11.30-12.00 to support their student and give feedback to the school on how we can support you and your family.

We have also been using this time and space to come together and educate each other on "Closing the Gap" in our school. We have art activities held on Tuesdays at first break. Our students at Beerwah State High School are encouraged to understand that issues surrounding Indigenous Health and well - being is everybody's business.

In stating this, we would like to announce that our school's Indigenous Attendance Gap IS Closing.

The bar graph shows the rise in attendance, and we will continue to keep you updated each term.

I would like to encourage parents/caregivers and students to attend our "Deadly Homework Group" held in the library every Monday and Thursday from 3-4pm. Everybody is welcome.

Aleccia Franks-Smith
Indigenous Community Advisor
Glass House Coalition

Triathlon

During the final week of Term 1, Beerwah State High School hosted our annual school triathlon.

Once again we had more than 100 of our students compete in this gruelling event.

12-14yrs - 200m swim, 6km cycle and 2.5km run.
15yrs – 300m swim, 10km cycle and 2.5km run.
Open- 400m swim, 12km cycle and 5km run.

Finishing a triathlon of any length is a great achievement and it was great to see the sense of pride and accomplishment that was evident in these students as they crossed the finishing line. Congratulations to all students who competed.

Category Winners

Individual Events

12-13 years - Jordy Wilson - Emily Roach
14 years - Nick Dwan - Caitlyn Wrest
15 years - Todd Donnelly - Rose Mickelson
Open - Aidan Young - Emma Milne

Team Events

12-14 years - Edward Burnett, Casey McRostie, Kanzen May
Sharnte Wilson, Rachael Cammell, Rhiarn Tranter

Open - Jarred Adamson, Diggor Arrindel, Zac Fisher
Mel Wilks, Marlee Radenovic, Alanah Graha

Belinda Kerr
HPE Teacher

Athletics Extension Program Rewards Day

On the last day of Term one students in the year 8, 9, and 10 Athletics Extension Program were rewarded for the effort they had put into Triathlon training with a trip to the Aqua Fun Park in Coolum. The 75 students had earnt a reward however, before they could have their fun they were put through their paces on Coolum's main beach with a number of cross training and beach activities. The hour session at the Aqua Park proved challenging mainly for staff who struggled with some of the obstacles. Students handled the park and its obstacles with ease after conquering the school Triathlon they were ready to take on any challenge. It was fantastic to see the students enjoying a picture perfect day and a great way to end the term.

Steve Jeffery
HOD HPE

Study Skills Handbook

MAKING GREAT STUDY NOTES

Many students wait until just before examination time to even consider their study notes then there is no time to learn them and no time to practise the skills of the subject. If you know you will have tests later in the year, then a smart thing to do is to get all of your Term1 study notes up to date during the holidays.

Can you imagine coming back Term 2, you haven't done your study notes for Term 1 and you get slammed with new work – it becomes impossible to catch up! So make a smart decision and ensure you have all of your Term1 study notes complete by the end of the term.

You can learn more about making great study notes in the SUMMARISING unit below by logging in with these details:

Username: beerwahshs
Password: 18achieve

Top 5 tips to improve your notes:

1. POINTS: Avoid long sentences and focus on key points.
2. TABLES: Use tables wherever you can to create structure.
3. KEY WORDS: Pull out keys words (as shown in this list).
4. HIGHLIGHT: Make sure the key content stands out (but don't go crazy with colour).
5. FEEDBACK: Show your notes to teachers, parents and friends so they can suggest ways to improve them.

Ms Leanne Young
Head of Department Senior Secondary

Why Do We Have Homework?

Homework in secondary school serves many purposes. It could be to consolidate or check or extend the learning from the day or prepare for the learning to come in subsequent days. It could be to do with longer term work such as assignments or preparing for tests and examinations. Ultimately it comes back to what school is all about – learning. Learning not just content, but learning and developing skills. At times students feel that the work they are doing at school is not relevant to their lives, however sometimes we need to look beyond the content to the purpose of the learning exercise. At times the content will be a vehicle to teach particular skills. Much of what we learn in Mathematics develops the problem solving circuits in our brain. When you are analysing Shakespeare you are learning not just about Shakespeare but to think critically and expand your point of view and broaden your experience of the world through examination of different lives, emotions and experiences. The message is that everything you learn at school has purpose and value, even if you can't quite see it at the time.

There is much debate in the media as to the value of homework. In Primary school it has been shown that only a small amount of students actually benefit from doing homework in terms of academic achievement. The exception to this is reading at home – every student benefits from this. However the other benefits can't be discounted: developing independent working skills, establishing study routines necessary for learning in later years, helping students' master things they are struggling with and allowing parental involvement. In secondary school homework has been proven to be an essential component of academic success in the senior years. The reality of Year 11 and 12 is that a large component of independent learning needs to be undertaken at home. One of the biggest problems for students transitioning to the senior years is that they have not learnt to work effectively and efficiently in the home environment. This is why developing good habits and learning to do at least a solid hour a day of home study is essential in Years 7-10. It is also about developing the qualities of discipline and perseverance, both essential for senior studies. Students will not like every subject equally; students need to learn how to make themselves do the work even for their least favourite subjects.

So what can you do to manage your homework effectively? Try these top tips:

1. As soon as you get home unpack your bag before you have a break and something to eat. Lay out all the work first. It is easier to get started if you have everything ready to go.
2. Before you start work, write a list of what needs to be done and decide what order you will do it. Focus on what is most important, not just what subject you like best! Also write down how long you think each task will take to do.
3. Keep in your mind that it is all about learning. Try and look beyond the actual content to what type of skill this homework might be developing in you – analysing, critical thinking, writing skills, or problem solving skills for example.
4. Do your work in 20-30 minute blocks with no distractions during that time. So switch off the TV, turn off your phone for that 20-30 minutes. When you just focus on the work that needs to be done you'll be amazed at how much work you complete. Of course if you are on a roll, you can keep going past the 30 minutes.
5. If there is a task you really don't want to do then alternate this with a task you enjoy doing. For example 15 minutes on the homework you like, 5 minutes on the homework you don't like. When you chip away at it you will be surprised how quickly you get through the work.

Learn more this year about how to improve your results and be more efficient and effective with your schoolwork by working through the units below - our school's access details are:

Username: beerwahshs
Password: 18achieve

A vital skill for students is research, and there is a valuable document that students can link to on the website under the MORE menu on the Things to print page or in the relevant unit. As a subscriber to the website (below) students at Beerwah SHS can access this for free.

Energy Drinks and Teenagers: Do you know the risks?

What is an energy drink?

To put it simply, an 'energy drink' is acsoft drink with high levels of caffeine. Like all soft drinks they contain little nutritional value and high amounts of sugar. Drinks such as Red Bull contain approximately five teaspoons of sugar per 250 ml can. What really differentiates energy drinks from soft drinks is that they also contain significantly higher doses of caffeine. Common energy drinks contain around 160 – 300mg caffeine per 500 ml serve. To put this perspective coffee contains 40 – 80mg /cup and Tea 20-60mg / cup. A No-Dose tablet contains 100mg of caffeine and a warning label on the packet. Depending on the brand, energy drinks may also contain other additives such as B vitamins, taurine, ephedrine and ginseng.

Health Risks for Teenagers

The major health concern regarding 'energy' drinks is their high caffeine content. Adverse effects of caffeine when consumed in the quantities present in most energy drinks include:

• Insomnia
• Nervousness
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Rapid heart rate
• Hypertension
• Anxiety
• Physiological dependence to caffeine

These effects are already being observed amongst young teenagers who often drink energy drinks on their way to school. They exhibit more disruptive class behaviour and poor concentration, with some teens ending up in hospital emergency wards suffering from heart palpitations. As with all soft drinks, 'energy' drinks, because of the high kilojoule content, can lead to problems with excessive weight gain. This is more likely for teens who often consume large quantities of drinks in order to partake in sedentary activities such as late night computer gaming sessions.

Teenagers and Energy Drinks

Many of these energy drinks are marketed to appeal directly to teenagers. They are presented as being style statements, particularly to young males. The strength of the drink is associated with status and excitement. The stronger the drink is, the greater the appeal to teenagers looking to portray an image to the world.

Ultimately though it still comes down to education and personal responsibility. Adults should advise teens that:

• Caffeine dehydrates the body so teens should always drink water with caffeinated beverages.
• Consistent regular consumption of caffeine can create physiological dependence, which can have unpleasant side effects.
• Teens who have sedentary lifestyles i.e. many hours on the computer, are at significant risk of obesity if they drink energy regularly.

Derek Ranclaud
HOD Student Services

Cross Country

During period 3 and 4 on Tuesday May 3rd we will be holding our school Cross Country. The whole school will be part of this event to be held on our school oval. Students will be running along a course of mixed terrain; over logs, through the surrounding forest, along the creek and on wide open fields. To increase participation and add to the carnival spirit students will have the opportunity to take part in the race itself, ball games and a fun run. For parents who are interested in coming along to spectate the approximate starting times for each race is as follows:

12:30 pm - 6 km

Open Boys (6km)
16 Boys

1:00pm - 3km

13 Year Boys
13 Year Girls
12 Year Boys
12 Year Girls

1:25pm - 4km Open Girls

16 Year Girls
15 Year Boys
15 Year Girls
14 Year Boys
14 Year Girls

2:10pm - 800m

Fun run

Fitness Plus 24/7 Beerwah

A big thank you to Fitness Plus 24/7 at Beerwah for giving away 10, 12 month gym memberships to our students. This new gym has been very generous and given the school a number of "Free week trial" passes to give away. If you are interesting in obtaining one of these passes please ask your child to collect this from staffroom B.

Chantelle Mergard
A/O Health & Physical Education Co-ordinator

News from the Maths Department

Last term we had 38 students sit the Australian Mathematics Trust CAT test. This is a nationwide test and tests 'Computational and Algorithmic Thinking' which closely links with maths and technology. I am pleased to announce that of the 38 students who sat the test, 20 achieved higher awards, with 7 Distinctions and 13 Credits. This is an excellent result we should proud of and we will celebrate this success with students being awarded certificates on parade. These students were:

Distinctions

Year 7

CHLOE LUSCOMBE TRAVIS BOSS KANZEN MAY

Year 8

ASHLEY MCINTYRE

Year 10

ADAM VOIGT TODD DONNELLY

Year 12

JACK DE WILDE

Credits

Year 7

LUKE BOYD TAYA BERNDT HARLEY TREVERTON

Year 8

SAMSON BAKER MITCHELL CROSS MIKE CADIANG NICHOLAS HIND

Year 9

ASHLEY-ROSE KELLY TAHLI CERO BRYSON THE PAIGE EELES

Year 10

VEDA PFLASTERER

Year 12

JACQUIE OMNET

Paul Schneider
Hod Mathematics

Science for Living

As part of the Science for Living program Education Services students were involved in cheese making processes supervised by Amber in the science lab. The results of their efforts will be entered into this year's Maleny Show. Fingers crossed for another first prize!

Helen Skerman
Administration Officer/Teacher Aide

BSHS Arts in Focus

Don't miss out on POPSTARS

Beerwah SHS 2016 Musical
All of your favourite songs from the 1990s!
Come and sing along!
Two shows only!
Date: 5th & 6th May, 2016
Time: 6.30pm – 9pm
Place: Performing Arts Block
Tickets are limited and will go on sale Week 2, Term 2, Monday 18th April
Watch this space for notifications.

Art

It was a great day for the Art Department as our Year 11 and 12 students had the opportunity to experience the creative delights of our fabulous galleries in Brisbane.

Students visited the Gallery of Modern Art ( GOMA) and The Queensland Art Gallery. On display were some amazing interactive pieces that explored not only our visual sense but also touch and sound.

Reacting and discussing a wide range of works increases both visual literacy and communication skills. We all had our favourite piece of artwork. A huge congratulations to all our students who exhibited exemplary behaviour, so much so that gallery staff commented on what an engaged and polite group of students we had representing Beerwah State High. A huge thanks to Mrs Simpson for organising a very successful day.

Jeanie Jordan
Teacher

FROM THE HUMANITES FACULTY!

Year 12 Geography Excursion to Fraser Island

Early on Monday morning 11th April, 16 students and two teachers departed Beerwah High School to travel to Fraser Island for a 3 day Geography camp. The facilitators for the camp were from an organisation called Second Nature Asia Pacific Pty Ltd and they provided an excellent opportunity for the students to explore the island. The aim of the camp was for the students to decide on a new location for an eco-friendly resort or camping facility and to look at the pros and cons of establishing the facility in that location.

After disembarking from the barge, the first four wheel drive managed to get stuck in the sand and the students had to push it out. From there we travelled to along the Bypass Road to 75 Miles Beach and then to Dilli Village and Lake Boomanjin were the students had lunch. At Lake Birabeen the students went for a swim which was a great way to end the day. We then travelled to Eurong Resort where we stayed for the two nights.

On the Tuesday we were up early for our day trip north. Our first stop was to Eli Creek were the students were able to swim and were then shown how to do a transect of the sand dunes. We then headed to the Maheno Shipwreck, the Pinnacles and Cathedral Beach. The students were then able to climb Indian Head before heading to the Champaign Pools for a swim. On our way back to the Resort we stopped in a Eli Creek for afternoon tea and a swim.

On the Wednesday morning we visited the beautiful Lake McKenzie where the students were able to swim in the crystal clear water. From Lake McKenzie we then went to Central Station and walked along the boardwalk to Wangooloba Creek. We then headed back to Eurong for lunch before making our way home.

All in all a fantastic experience for everyone! The students are to be congratulated on their excellent behaviour during the entire trip.

YMCA Youth Parliament member meets Member for Caloundra

Last Friday Rhys Boardman had the opportunity to meet with the Member for Caloundra, Mark McArdle to discuss strategies for the upcoming YMCA Youth Parliament.

Danae Richter
Acting HOD, Humanities