From The Junior Secondary Head of Department
With David Capill
PAT R Testing
This week, students in Year 7-9 participated in a Progressive Achievement Test in Reading (PAT-R). Each class spent one period in a computer lab completing the online reading assessment. The results of these tests are collated and analysed by ever teacher across our school. Teachers identify the strengths of each individual student and the areas that need improvement. From this data, teachers plan activities that respond to each area. These activities include both extension and support for each student. Congratulations to all students on their efforts in the test.
Leaders of STEM education in Gladstone
Toolooa State High School is leading STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education in the Gladstone region. Last term our STEM squad partnered with QMEA and QGC to deliver a drone competition to local high schools. This week, we are partnering with the Gladstone Ports Corporation to provide local primary schools with a STEM challenge day. Through these initiatives, Toolooa is building connections with local industry and providing our region with quality STEM education opportunities. Combined, these programs will engage nearly 200 students from 9 local schools with education in piloting drones, operating robotics, coding, programming, engineering prototypes, and presenting STEM solutions to real-life problems. Students learn and practice soft skills such as team work, problem solving, creative and critical thinking, communication and perseverance. Congratulations to our STEM Squad students on their leadership and innovation in delivering such fantastic programs.