English

This week in English we explored The Promise by Nicola Davies, analysing the different techniques the author used to develop the story and present the main character. Learners discussed how the illustrations and descriptive language helped to show the character’s emotions and the changes in the setting throughout the book.

We then completed a Role on the Wall activity, where learners explored how the main character might be feeling on the inside and what influences her actions from the outside, such as her environment and experiences. This helped learners develop a deeper understanding of the character’s thoughts, motivations, and the themes of the story. 

After this, we looked at an example text and worked together to identify different structural and language features used by the writer. Learners highlighted techniques such as descriptive vocabulary, sentence structure, and figurative language.

Next week, learners will begin planning their own character narrative. They will use a Box It Up model to help organise their ideas and structure their writing clearly. This planning approach will support learners in including key writer’s knowledge, such as descriptive language, character thoughts and feelings, and effective sentence structures, helping them prepare for writing their own detailed narrative. 

Maths

This week in Maths, learners focused on developing their understanding of fractions. They began by finding a fraction of an amount within a quantity, using practical resources such as pencils and counters to help visualise how a quantity can be shared into equal parts. 

Learners then progressed to finding the fraction of a number, applying their understanding of dividing quantities into equal groups. They used their knowledge of numerators and denominators to calculate fractional amounts accurately and explain their reasoning.

Building on both this week’s learning and their knowledge from last week, learners then explored how to find the whole when a fraction of a number is known. They used their understanding of fractions and inverse operations to work out the total amount.

To showcase their learning, learners completed their end of unit fractions assessment, where they applied the skills and strategies they have developed throughout the unit.

Next week, learners will begin a new unit on decimals and percentages, where they will explore the relationship between fractions, decimals, and percentages and develop their confidence in representing numbers in different forms. 

Science

This week we learned about pulleys, levers and gears, exploring how these simple machines have a big impact in science and everyday life. We looked at real-world examples, such as cranes to demonstrate pulleys and wheelbarrows to show how levers work.

We then linked this learning back to our fairgrounds unit in Enquiry Learning, helping learners see how these forces are used in familiar contexts. To finish the unit, learners completed their end-of-unit assessment on forces.

  Enquiry Learning

This week in Enquiry Learning, we introduced our new topic “Night at the Museum.” Learners were first introduced to Florence Nightingale, learning about her important contributions to nursing and healthcare. They discussed why she is remembered as a significant historical figure and how her actions helped improve hospital conditions. 

Learners were then given the opportunity to choose their own historical figure that they will represent and perform as during our upcoming Night at the Museum event. This allowed learners to explore a range of influential individuals from history and begin thinking about how they might present their character to an audience. 

To begin preparing, learners carried out research on the historical figure of their choice, gathering key facts about their life, achievements, and why they are remembered today. 

Next week, learners will continue to research their chosen historical figure in more detail. They will then begin planning and writing their scripts, which they will use to perform as their historical character during the Night at the Museum event.