This term, our exciting topic is Extreme Earth! Throughout the term, we will explore the powerful natural processes that shape our planet and discover how people adapt to, and are affected by, the world around them. Through engaging lessons across the curriculum, children will develop their knowledge, skills and creativity while making meaningful links between subjects.

English

Our class text this term is Letters from the Lighthouse by Emma Carroll. During the first part of the term, we will explore poetry writing, learning how authors use free verse, similes, metaphors, personification, repetition and powerful imagery to create atmosphere and engage the reader.

Later in the term, children will use Olive's experiences in Letters from the Lighthouse to write their own diary entries. They will explore how thoughts, feelings and historical events can be woven into diary writing, developing their use of first-person narration, reflection and emotive language before planning, drafting and publishing their own wartime diaries.

Alongside our writing curriculum, guided reading lessons will continue to develop comprehension, inference and vocabulary skills through the study of Once by Morris Gleitzman, encouraging us to explore themes, character development and authorial choices in greater depth.

This English journey will allow us to combine their historical understanding with creative writing, helping them develop empathy, resilience and a deeper appreciation of the experiences of children living through wartime Britain.

                                                                 

Mathematics

In Maths, we will focus on Place Value and Addition and Subtraction. We will work with numbers up to 10 million, learning to read, write, compare, order and round large numbers. We will then develop their understanding of formal written methods for addition and subtraction, applying these skills to a range of reasoning and problem-solving challenges.

Throughout the term, we will build confidence in explaining our mathematical thinking, using estimation to check answers and selecting efficient strategies to solve real-life problems. Regular arithmetic practice will help develop fluency, accuracy and a secure understanding of number.

Science

Our Science unit focuses on Living Things and Their Habitats. We will investigate how living things are classified using observable characteristics and classification keys and learn about vertebrates, invertebrates, plants and microorganisms, while exploring the work of Carl Linnaeus. Through practical investigations, including experiments involving yeast, we will discover how scientific understanding develops and changes when new evidence becomes available.

       

Geography

In Geography, we will follow the fascinating journey of a river from its source high in the mountains to its mouth where it meets the sea. We will investigate the water cycle and learn about key river features including waterfalls, meanders, oxbow lakes, estuaries and deltas. We will explore how erosion, transportation and deposition shape landscapes and compare major rivers in the UK and around the world. We will also consider how rivers are used by people and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of building dams.

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Art and Design

Inspired by the work of Henri Rousseau, we will learn about Post-Impressionism and Naïve Art. We will develop observational drawing skills, experiment with texture and composition and create our own Rousseau-inspired jungle paintings. Through the use of colour mixing, layering and careful evaluation, we will produce imaginative artwork and reflect on our creative choices.

            

Computing

In Computing, we will investigate how computer networks work and explore how devices communicate across the internet. Children will learn how information travels online and develop their ability to create and interpret data using technology. We will also reinforce the importance of staying safe and responsible when using online resources.

PE

This term's PE lessons will focus on Gymnastics and Netball. We will develop balance, coordination, strength and flexibility through a range of gymnastics activities, including balances, rolls and sequences. In outdoor PE, they will learn key netball skills, teamwork strategies and game tactics while developing confidence and resilience through sport.

PSHE

Our Jigsaw theme this term is Being Me in My World. We will explore our identities, strengths and responsibilities within our school community. Through discussions and activities, we will learn about respectful behaviour, positive relationships, goal setting and making thoughtful choices. 

French

In French, we will continue developing our speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. We will learn new vocabulary linked to World War II and strengthen their understanding of numbers by counting from 60 to 100. Through a range of engaging activities, we will build confidence in applying their language skills in different contexts.

Music

We will continue learning to play brass instruments, developing breathing techniques, posture and performance skills. We will learn simple notation and work together as an ensemble, building confidence, musical expression and teamwork as we prepare for performances throughout the term. 

Our Learning Journey

Through our Extreme Earth topic, we will become geographers, scientists, artists, mathematicians, musicians and authors. We will explore how our world is formed and changed, investigate the living things that inhabit it and express our learning creatively across the curriculum. We look forward to sharing their achievements and celebrating their learning throughout the term.