As we reach the end of a jam-packed half term, I want to take a moment to celebrate what an incredible few weeks it has been!

This week, we were immensely proud of the class for their outstanding performance at the Dance Festival. Their energy, teamwork and confidence truly shone through. If you would like to relive Tuesday evening, I have uploaded a highlight reel to Google Classroom (accessible via the children’s school Chromebook login), along with the full performance video kindly captured by Mrs Bennett.

English
In English, we completed our work on “hugging” the model text and created our own versions. The children carefully painted their opening setting in their Publishing Books and then illustrated the contrasting setting on the following page. Finally, they proudly “published” their stories, writing them out in full and taking great care with presentation. It has been wonderful to see how much their confidence and creativity have grown.

Maths
In Maths, we have been learning about the perimeter of rectangles and rectilinear shapes. The class were particularly impressed by a little “mathematical magic” demonstration, where we transformed a rectangle into a rectilinear shape to show how the combined lengths of two horizontal sides equal the opposite side — and the same for the vertical sides. A memorable way to deepen their understanding!

RE
In RE, we reflected on our Hinduism topic and discussed some thoughtful philosophical questions inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, who said:
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”

The children considered:

• What one change would you wish to help bring? Why that change?
• What acts of selfless kindness could you do?
• What might you now do going forwards?

Their responses were incredibly mature and reflective.

Science
In Science, we have been exploring the water cycle, focusing on key vocabulary: precipitation, collection, evaporation and condensation. Today, we created our own working water cycle models using acetate and split pins — a hands-on way to embed the learning. We also enjoyed a very catchy water cycle song to help us remember the stages! https://youtu.be/3QmwWe_Vdk4?si=tHGgpceDpbmJPFle 

Guided Reading
In Guided Reading, we read a non-fiction text titled All About China in anticipation of Chinese New Year next week. The children were fascinated by the traditions and celebrations.

Art Week
During Art Week, Mrs Bartram led a whole-school assembly introducing the work of Joan Miró. Inspired by his style, we designed and created our own sculptures using wire, newspaper and Modroc. Once dry, we painted them using primary colours, black and green in the style of Miró. The results are bold, imaginative and wonderfully expressive!

Spelling
This week, we have been focusing on the spelling patterns -tion and -sion. The spellings are available to practise on Doodle and have also been sent home. The children will be tested on Friday 27th February.

Homework
“Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” Please continue to encourage your child to read regularly over the half term — it makes such a difference.

I have also set English and Maths assignments on Doodle, TTRS and a reminder about the multiplication pack I sent home last week, which need to be completed by Thursday 26th February.

Thank you for your continued support. Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable half term!