As we come to the end of Spring 1, it’s time to reflect on the exciting learning adventures we’ve experienced in our classrooms. This update highlights the key areas of focus across various subjects, celebrating our students’ hard work and progress.

English

In English, we have delved into a gripping narrative tool by exploring the enchanting book, The Last Bear.

This text has not only captivated our imaginations but has also prompted many discussions and reflections. We encouraged students to express their creativity through diverse forms of writing, including predictions, poems, diaries, and powerful descriptive passages with a focus on fronted adverbials.

Maths

Our Maths has kept our young learners engaged, focusing on fundamental concepts such as place value, multiplication, division, and decimals. Through interactive activities and using manipulatives, students have worked hard to sharpen their skills, also demonstrating an understanding of where we can use these calculations in everyday life.

Science

Our focus this half term has been states of matter! We have been looking at Solids, Liquids and Gases. We have learnt about the different properties each state holds, we have conducted experiments to investigate if gases hold weight. We also changed different of matter during our bicarbonate soda experiment where we created our own chemical reaction!

History

History lessons have taken us on a journey through the Anglo-Saxon period in Britain, examining their villages and way of life during this significant era. We’ve also learned about the Roman withdrawal from Britain in AD 410, the impact of pagan beliefs, and St Augustine’s subsequent introduction of Christianity. Our studies have emphasised the significance of Sutton Hoo as well, providing tangible links to the past and helping students to appreciate their cultural heritage.

RE

Our study of Religious Education (RE) has centred on Sikhism, with a special emphasis on Guru Nanak, the founding figure of this faith. Students have engaged with the Sikh symbol and explored the Five K’s, integral to Sikh identity. We’ve also discussed the significance of the Gurdwara and the revered Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture. It’s been lovely to see students approach these topics with respect and curiosity, fostering an inclusive environment for understanding diverse beliefs.

Art

This half term in Art, we have been looking at mood boards. We have been discussing what mood boards and themes are, with a specific focus on rainforests. We explored different objects that were inspired by rainforests and used different materials to create our art pieces on rainforest inspired pictures.

Music

This half term, Year 4 have been hard at work with our rehearsals for the upcoming Mass Children’s Choir organised by Let’s Go Sing and their Musical Director, Mrs Gill Fourie.

We have had the pleasure to be taught by professional music teachers who come into school and go through the songs, lyrics and actions with us.

The songs are on their website https://www.whoopsadaisymusic.co.uk/ for the children to have a practice at home. This year we will perform at The Ice Rink in Blackburn along with another 16 schools. These performances are over two weeks during March. Our group song is Fight Song by Rachel Platten!

PSHE

Our Personal, Social, and Health Education (PSHE) lessons have delved into essential themes surrounding personal space and non-verbal signs. We’ve discussed the concepts of risk, hazard, and danger, allowing students to engage with real-world situations. They have gained valuable insights into recognising boundaries and navigating social interactions responsibly, which is crucial for their personal development.

Spanish

In Spanish, our learners have been enchanted by the classic tale of Little Red Riding Hood. Through this story, we’ve incorporated vocabulary and phrases related to the narrative while practising our speaking and listening skills. This vibrant storytelling method has enabled students to immerse themselves in the language while enhancing their comprehension and conversational abilities.