Dear Parent/Carer,
Welcome to Term 5. We hope you enjoyed the Easter break!
Geography:
Following the PKC scheme of work, this term our Topic is ‘Rivers’. Once again, this is a big topic for a short term but we will fit in as much learning as possible! Our focus is on locating rivers throughout the world and comparing them. We will look at similarities and differences between different rivers and think about why many modern and ancient human settlements can be fund around rivers, thinking about how humans use them. We will also explore our local river, the Pent Stream. We plan on going down to see the mouth at the harbour, where it flows into the sea.
Art:
Art will continue to be taught by Mrs Purver on Fridays. This term they will be looking at modern architecture. They will start by learning what architecture means and what an architect does, followed by an in-depth study of the Parthenon which allows consideration of the importance of this building both in its influence on architectural design throughout history (shown in the design of parts of St Paul’s Cathedral) and by its own chequered history, with particular reference to the debate surrounding the Parthenon marbles which currently reside in the British Museum. They will then design and make their own sculptures in relief, developing their knowledge of working with clay. The study of the Parthenon contrasts with focus on the work of Gaudi, who the children will also study, learning how his designs were influenced by nature and were extraordinary for their time. They will also look at different architectural features, such as Gaudi’s use of towers, stained-glass windows and mosaics before designing and creating their own mosaics using tissue paper.
Science:
Science will continue to be taught by Mr Brinkly on Mondays. This term Year 3 will study Cycles in Nature and make links with their work on plants from last term. They will study patterns, trends and cycles that occur throughout the seasons, in the life of plants and in the life of animals. They will understand that the tilt of the earth creates our seasons. They will look at patterns seen in nature as the seasons change. Thinking scientifically about the changes to plants through the seasons, they will learn how the increased hours of sunshine in the summer help plants to gain the necessary energy to grow bigger. Building on their understanding of cycles, children will study the life cycles of plants and animals.
Numeracy:
This term, the scheme ‘White Rose’ dictates that we will learn focus on number, measurement and geometry. We will start by revisiting fractions, this term learning to add and subtract them as well as finding unit and non-unit fractions of objects, We will then learn about time, money, shape including angles and parallel and perpendicular lines, ending the term with a unit on statistics.
English:
This term, we will be learning how to write an explanation text. We will learn one about how a jellyfish catches its prey, and then make an animal of our own to explain how that catches prey of gathers and finds food. We will include a glossary and a labelled diagram in our own texts. We will then be looking at the poem ‘A River’ by Valerie Bloom, learning about its different features such as rhyme, personification and metaphor.
As usual, there will be a big focus this term on uses of punctuation, handwriting and SPAG features and we aim to develop and use a wide range of exciting vocabulary.
Our class text this term is a Rivers Journey by Meredith Hooper.
R.E:
This term our R.E unit is Humanism. We will learn that a humanist is a person who believes in the importance of human beings, values reason and critical thinking, and advocates for human rights and well-being. We will learn how they reject the idea of supernatural explanations and the concept of God, instead believing in the power of humanity to create a better world through science, reason, and empathy. We will learn how Humanists are known for their commitment to ethical living, social justice, and the pursuit of knowledge.
P.E:
Will be on Tuesdays and Fridays. In class, this term we are very lucky to be taking part in ‘Squash Academy’ where an expert will come in to teach us how to play squash! On Fridays, we will be learning all about Athletics, continuing to have our specialist teachers in to teach us. PLEASE make sure your child has their FULL PE kit in school, at all times and that it is clearly named. PE is a vital part of the curriculum and children need to have the correct kit with them.
ICT:
ICT continues to be taught by MR O on Fridays. This term the children will be continuing to review their learning and understanding about online safety and alongside this they will begin their unit on graphing and presenting.
Homework and Spellings:
AT the beginning of the week, children will be sent home with a new homework challenge. The children can bring in their completed homework on any day but should ideally be handed in by Friday.
The homework will include:
- Daily reading of a home reader (20 minutes, building to 30 minutes and minimum of 3 x weekly)
- Number bonds or times tables
- Spellings, these will be tested in school
Children can also play on TT Rockstars and complete any activities from the grid that they wish to.
If you have any questions or concerns, then please do not hesitate to get in touch. We look forward to working with you together this term.
Many thanks for your continued support,
Mrs Honzik and Mrs Crockford
