Maths

This term in Maths, Year 5 have focused on deepening their understanding of fractions. They learned how to identify and represent different fractions, including mixed numbers and improper fractions, and practised converting between the two forms. Pupils developed their skills in adding and subtracting fractions with different denominators, using strategies to find common denominators and work accurately with a range of fraction problems.

English

This term in English, Year 5 have been working with the book Wolf Wilder, using it as a springboard for a variety of writing and reading activities. They visualised scenes from the story, such as the description of the house, to enhance their imagination and descriptive skills. Pupils researched and wrote non-chronological reports about wolves, developing their ability to organise information clearly. They also focused on comprehension, answering questions to deepen their understanding of the text. Linking to their science topic, they wrote a newspaper report about the first moon landing, practising their skills in factual writing and making connections across subjects.

Science

This half term in science, our students have delved into the fascinating realm of space. They have explored the wonders of our solar system, identifying and ordering the planets with precision. By utilizing a toilet roll scale, they comprehended the vast distances between planets. Furthermore, students explained the movement of planets in relation to the Sun, highlighting Mercury’s swift orbit as the closest planet. Visual aids such as balls and torches were used to understand the concept of day and night, and this also helped the children to understand the rationale behind different time zones. The students also were able to describe the moon’s orbit around Earth.

History

This term in History, Year 5 have been learning about the Great Fire of London and its lasting impact on the city. They used a range of historical sources to understand life in London in 1666, exploring the role of the monarchy, the effects of the plague, and the nature of housing at the time. Pupils investigated how the fire started, how it spread, and how people reacted, using maps and eyewitness accounts. They explored the firefighting methods of the time, assessed their effectiveness, and compared them to modern techniques. The class sequenced the key events of the fire on a timeline and examined its immediate impact on people’s lives and society. They studied the proposals in the 1667 and 1670 Acts for Rebuilding the City of London, comparing the changes made, and learned about Sir Christopher Wren’s important role in redesigning and rebuilding the city. Finally, pupils reflected on what caused the fire and how changes were made to prevent a similar disaster from happening again.

RE

This term in RE, Year 5 have explored how people decide what to believe and the different ways faith can be expressed. They studied the Apostles’ Creed, learning about its key beliefs and what it means for Christians. The class also delved into the concept of the Holy Trinity, understanding the idea of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Additionally, they learned why Christians visit special places like Taizé, exploring how these places offer opportunities for reflection, worship, and community.

Spanish

In Spanish, we have started to look at the story of “Rocito de Oro y los tres osos” – Goldilocks and the three bears. We have read through the story a few times, to ensure we have a good understanding of the key vocabulary ready for us to be able to retell the story ourselves next half term.

Art

This term in Art, Year 5 have been inspired by retrofuturistic space artwork from the 1960s, exploring the purpose and impact of imagery in creative design. They studied the work of artist Teis Albers, focusing on his Moonwalk piece and the decisions behind his creative process. Pupils developed their own futuristic ideas through sketching, printmaking, and colour experimentation, creating printing blocks and using secondary colours to design bold backgrounds. Sketchbooks were used throughout to test and refine ideas, helping them bring their imaginative visions to life in their final artwork.

Computing

This half term the children began by looking at Physical Devices. We learnt that computers use physical inputs and outputs, loops, they write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals. The children then programmed a microbit.

Music

This half term The Hobbits have been talking about improvisation. We can tell you what it means to make up your music on the spot. We have worked with our partner on the keyboards, using the c major scale, to improvise and let our partner listen.

PE

This term in PE, Year 5 have focused on athletics, developing their skills across a range of events. They learned different types of throws, including how to perform a javelin throw and a shotput-style throw using a tennis ball, focusing on technique and control. In jumping, they practised the long jump and triple jump, learning how to coordinate their movements for distance and power. They also worked on building their stamina through endurance running, aiming to sustain a steady pace over a set period of time.

PSHE

This half term, year 5 have had weekly sessions from Jude Lemon, learning about how to keep safe in the ever-increasing world of social media and online. They have learnt about how to use social media in a positive way, and how messages can be misread easily when typed down.