English
This half term, we have continued to read and produce work based on our class novel, ‘Charlotte’s web’. We looked at features of a non-chronological report and researched barn spiders in order to write our own non-chronological report all about spiders. When we heard that Wilbur was going to be killed, we wrote a letter to him demonstrating empathy. We practiced answering 3 mark reading paper questions giving our points and explaining with evidence from the text. After reading the description of the swing in the barn, we wrote our own shape poems describing a different playground attraction. When we heard about Charlotte’s web-spinning plan to save Wilbur, we decided this was newsworthy and wrote a newspaper article about this. Lastly, we have entered a mini saga writing competition, where we had to create a crazy monster character and write a 100-word story about them.
Maths
The focus this half term was on extending their understanding of fractions, decimals, and place value. The children continued to enhance their understanding of fractions by learning to order, add and subtract fractions by using common multiples to find a common denominator. They also learned how to multiply fractions and mixed numbers by integers and convert between fractions and decimals. Moreover, the children gained proficiency in understanding the place value system of decimals. They were able to count in tenths, hundredths, and thousandths and compare decimals. We also looked at adding and subtracting decimals, ensuring that our digits were lined up correctly. To enhance their mathematical fluency, the children practiced finding number bonds to 1, which further reinforced their understanding of fractions and decimals.
Science
In the materials topic, students have been exploring the properties and uses of different substances. Next, the children were required to explain the process of separating salt from seawater on a desert island. Through this activity, they not only enhanced their scientific understanding but also improved their writing skills by effectively communicating the steps involved in this process. To develop their investigatory and problem-solving skills, the students planned and carried out an investigation into separating soil and rocks from water. This hands-on activity allowed them to apply their scientific knowledge and employ various techniques to separate the components effectively. They were encouraged to think critically, make observations, and draw conclusions based on their findings. The concept of thermal and electrical conduction was also explored, learning the properties of conductors and insulators and being able to identify examples of each. Furthermore, they have gained an understanding of how these properties affect the transfer of heat and electricity in different materials.
History
In history, we have continued to learn about life in Baghdad during the Golden age of Islam. The children have delved into the life and works of Ibn Hawqal, a renowned cartographer from this era. They have come to understand who Ibn Hawqal was and have examined his significant contributions to the field of cartography. In addition, the students have identified the countries that Ibn Hawqal visited, comparing his map to a modern-day representation of the world. They have also engaged in thought-provoking discussions, considering the reasons for existent differences between the two. Furthermore, the children have gained knowledge about the Bayt al-Hikma, commonly referred to as the House of Wonders. They have explored its purposes and significance during the Golden age of Islam, discussing why it held such importance within the community. As part of developing critical thinking skills, our students concluded the topic by evaluating whether they would have preferred living in Baghdad or Britain during AD900, using evidence from their learning to support their informed decision.
Geography
This half term, we delved into various aspects of global trade, agricultural practices, and fairtrade principles. One area of study was the Marco Polo cargo ship, which is still employed for trading purposes today. Students explored its historical significance and its role in facilitating international commerce. To enhance their understanding, pupils examined an aerial photograph of Southampton, the port where the Marco Polo ship regularly docks. Employing a critical eye, they identified key features and landmarks visible from above. Furthermore, children utilized maps to identify various locations, building their skills in map reading and interpretation. Another intriguing aspect that we explored was the plight of Melvin, a banana farmer who isn’t part of the fairtrade act. Pupils gained insight into the challenges faced by Melvin and the vast amount of work he undertakes, despite receiving little reward for his efforts. By juxtaposing Melvin’s situation with that of Retina, a farmer who operates within the fairtrade act, students developed a deeper understanding of the concept of fairtrade. Exploring fairtrade further, pupils delved into what it means for Retina, focusing on the positive impact it has on her life. The children gained an appreciation for the importance of fairtrade and its potential to improve the lives of farmers and their communities in less developed countries.
RE
In RE, we have delved into the significance and importance of Jesus’ crucifixion. Firstly, we studied Palm Sunday and engaged in insightful debates regarding the emotions experienced by the Romans during this time. Additionally, the students examined Jesus’ righteous anger when he overturned the tables in the temples, reflecting on the reactions this might have elicited from those around him. Furthermore, the children explored the harrowing account of Judas betraying Jesus before the Last Supper. This exploration led to an analysis of Jesus’ trials and the subsequent betrayal by Peter. Armed with compelling evidence, the students were challenged to consider whether Jesus’ crucifixion was a result of divine intention or a consequence of Jesus’ own actions. This exploration of the topic has allowed the students to develop a deeper understanding of the theological implications surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.
Design Technology
In Design Technology, we have been studying bridges. The children have been able to identify the difference between truss, arch and beam bridges, and understand what makes them structurally sound. They have experimented with card and understood that folding card makes it structurally stronger. Furthermore, they have experimented with building bridges out of spaghetti, and aside from recognising that this was a particularly difficult material to build with due to it being extremely brittle, they learnt that triangles are a strong shape to use in building. The children have then used this understanding to build bridges out of wood, thinking about the shapes. They used saws and glue guns to create these.
PSHE
In PSHE, we have engaged in various activities to develop an understanding of rights, respects, and duties at home and in school. In the context of rights and respects, we explored the differences between these concepts and discussed their significance in our daily lives. Students were encouraged to reflect on the importance of respecting others’ rights and how their own rights are intertwined with responsibilities. Furthermore, we addressed the issue of environmental responsibility by focusing on making a positive difference to our local environment. Students learned about the various ways in which they can contribute to environmental preservation and why it is crucial for a sustainable future. To enhance critical thinking skills, we explored the distinction between facts and opinions. This enabled them to become more discerning consumers of information when reading news reports and develop a well-rounded understanding of current events.
Spanish
In Spanish, we have focused on the topic of “In the Café,” learning how to read, write, and say a variety of food and drink items. The students have learnt how to ask for more than one item, using the plural form. Furthermore, they can confidently express their preferences by using the phrase “I would like…” in Spanish. Additionally, they have acquired the language skills necessary to ask for the bill and say “please” and “thank you”.
PE
In hockey, the children have learnt how to hold the stick correctly and grown in confidence showing control of the ball when dribbling in and out of cones and passing to a partner. They have learnt how to get into space to pass to partners and shoot, and how to block and defend balls. They have been able to demonstrate these skills in mini 4v4 games of hockey.
Computing
This half term the Year 5 students have looked at understanding computer networks, the Internet, cloud computing, Bluetooth and how they help us here in school and at home. The children then acted out the process that’s carried out for requesting and sending files to and from the server, requesting printing and websites from the Internet. We learned that protocol is the rule of how data is passed between devices and a packet is an instruction of how small pieces of data are put back together.
Music
The Year 5 Children have been appraising music/active music via the Charanga Music website. We have listened to a piece of music each week in our music sessions, learnt new music vocabulary – Syncopated and off-beat. Whilst listening to the music we tried to identify these rhythms. We also tried to identify the style and tonality of the piece.
We have played our descant recorders, playing the notes B, A, G, we played Hot Cross Buns.
The children have also been hard at work learning Easter songs and hymns to perform at our annual Easter Service at St. Catherine’s Church.