In English we have been analysing the model text, looking out for the parts of the toolkit: 2 adjective clauses, similes, dialogue to show character, power of 3 and powerful verbs. The children know the model text so well.

In Maths we have been looking at numbers to 10,000. We compared numbers using < less than, > more than symbols. Then we ordered the numbers, thinking about how we look at the thousands digit first and then move to hundreds, tens and ones. Highlighting the importance of recognising the value of each digit. Our Maths starters have been acting as a way of embedding key facts: adding 12 to the hours when moving PM time to the 24 hour clock, remembering the key fact that 1,000g = 1KG and 100cm = 1m. 

Science was a rather revolting session this week. We were acting out the digestive system. Bananas and crackers along with water (saliva) and orange juice (stomach acid) were put into a plastic bag (the stomach). Once this was mashed together, the contents was poured into a leg of a pair of tights (small intestine). The liquid was squeezed out (acting as being absorbed into the body) and what remained was squeezed into a cup (large intestine). Then, with the use of another cup the remaining ‘waste’ was pushed out of a hole (the anus). A memorable moment.

In PE we continued our Dance topic - looking at mirroring movements and performing them in a ‘canon’. 

In RE, we are preparing for Gary the Vicar’s visit next week. We thought about the role of the Church for the community of Rickmansworth. We produced posters, which we will present to Gary, highlighting the wonderful work of St Mary’s Church. 

In Geography we have been looking at why volcanoes erupt and the three stages of volcanoes (active, dormant and extinct) and producing leaflets showcasing our findings. 

We talked about our choice for the Changemaker Project. We encourage you to discuss this at home with your child.

In DT we explored the different types of catapults: sling shots, ballista, mangonel and trebuchet. The class researched these on the Chromebooks. The search engine they used was kiddle.co which is a great way of ensuring the websites being searched are child-appropriate.

In Guided Reading we looked at an excerpt from Anisha the Accidental Detective. 

As part of our ‘Feel It’ programme the class looked at the word ‘satisfied’ - thinking about how that feeling feels, a time when we might have felt it and whether it’s a high or low energy emotion. This ignites a great discussion.

This week I have introduced the ‘Daily Mile’ for Year 4. This is an opportunity for the class to channel their energy by running/walking/skipping/etc around the playground or field midway through the afternoon session. So far this has proved hugely beneficial for the pupils’ focus. 

Home Learning:

Doodle English task set on Friday 26th September, so be completed by the evening of Thursday 2nd October.

Doodle Maths task set on Friday 26th September, so be completed by the evening of Thursday 2nd October.

TTRS - 14 minutes to be completed by the evening of Thursday 2nd October.

Reading - 5 times a week and Reading records will be stamped on Friday 3rd October 

Wishing you an enjoyable weekend.

Mrs Martin