Thematic

This week in Thematic, our year 3 scientists have continued their exciting investigations into the fascinating world of rocks and fossils. The children have been busy conducting a hands-on science experiment, testing the properties of different types of rock. They explored durability by seeing which rocks could withstand more force and absorbency by testing how much water each type could soak up. This practical learning really helped them understand how rocks behave and why certain types are used for specific purposes in everyday life.

We also delved into the amazing world of fossils. The children learnt how fossils are formed over millions of years and why they’re so important in helping us understand the Earth's history. Their curiosity peaked as they explored real fossil samples, comparing shapes, textures, and even identifying some ancient sea creatures! A highlight of the week was our Geology Workshop, where children got hands-on experience with a wide variety of fossils and rocks. They loved sorting and classifying the specimens, using their observation skills to group them by type, texture, and origin.

       

  

  

Next week, we will continue our studies of rocks and fossils, and will be finding out about Mary Anning.

English

This week in English, the children explored how early humans might have made fire. Using their existing knowledge and conducting further research, they gathered all the information they needed to write clear, step-by-step instructions on how to make a Stone Age fire. To help bring the process to life, the children took part in a drama activity where they re-enacted the fire-making process. The drama not only supported their writing but also deepened their understanding of the challenges faced by early humans. The children then turned their practical knowledge into detailed instructional texts, using imperative verbs and technical vocabulary.

Looking ahead to next week, we will be learning about persuasive writing. The children will be discussing and debating a topic linked to our core text, learning how to express their opinions clearly and convincingly.

      

  

      

Maths

This week in Maths, we have been busy exploring a range of calculation strategies linked to addition and subtraction. They've been building their confidence and developing their number sense through practical methods such as partitioning numbers, making ten, and using number lines to help visualise their thinking. These strategies not only help children solve problems efficiently but also give them a deeper understanding of how numbers work together. It’s been fantastic to see them explaining their methods and choosing strategies that work best for them in different contexts.

Next week, we’ll be moving on to Place Value; a key area of maths that underpins much of the number work they’ll encounter this year. We’ll be looking at how numbers are made up of tens and ones (and beyond!), and how this knowledge helps us compare, order, and work with numbers confidently.

Home Learning 

Attached below is the overarching Thematic Curriculum homework ideas. Please refer to the homework menu, which gives a variety of creative tasks for the children to choose from. Children only need to complete one task as a minimum, but can choose to complete more if they wish. Children have been given a Home Learning book to complete their home learning tasks in.

Home Learning is due in on Friday 17^th October 2025 

Spellings 

Children will have a spelling sheet attached in their home learning book. Each week, they will need to practise the core spellings listed using the ‘Look, Say, Cover, Write, Check’ strategy. Within your child’s home learning book, there are prompts and tips to support children in learning their spellings, along with a spelling list and an example of a table, which children can draw themselves, each time they learn a new set of spellings. Children should choose five spellings to practise at home each week. Please do speak to your child’s teacher if you have any questions.

Times Tables Rock Stars 

• Tasks to be completed online, with new tasks set every week. 

• Children’s logins have been stuck in their Reading journal.

Mathletics 

• Once a week 

• Tasks will always follow the learning that week. 

• Children’s logins have been stuck in their Reading journal.

Reminders: 

• Year 3 have PE on Wednesdays and should come to school dressed in the correct school PE kit. 

• 3B and 3G will swim on Thursdays this term- children will need to come dressed in their PE kit to school on this day, and bring with them their swimming costumes to change into.  

• Swimming kit reminder: full swimming costume/swim shorts. All children must wear a swimming hat and will be expected to remove jewellery (including stud earrings). 

• Please remember to check when your child has their Forest School sessions- the letter that was sent out is attached below.

Key messages: 

• On Wednesday 15th October, we will be inviting Year 3 parents into classrooms to look at the children’s books and talk to the children about their learning this term. Before joining the year 3 children in classrooms, parents are also invited to view our art exhibition in the main hall. Please arrive at 2:30pm. Children will be dismissed at their usual time.

• Please can children ensure they bring a healthy snack for breaktimes. 

• Children are provided with a school pencil case and so do not need to bring in pencil cases from home or any other toys/resources. 

• Children will also need to make sure they have a pair of Wellies in school, so that they are able to use the environmental area at lunchtimes. 

Have a lovely weekend!

The Year 3 Team