English

This week, our students have engaged in an enriching exercise focused on persuasive writing. The task involved debating the responsibility of the main character in our current text regarding their decision to travel to space. Each child meticulously crafted their arguments, considering various perspectives and employing persuasive techniques. Following this, the students presented their written pieces aloud to their peers, fostering a supportive environment for constructive feedback and discussion. This activity not only enhanced their writing skills but also encouraged critical thinking and public speaking, essential competencies in their educational journey.

Maths

This week, the children engaged in an exploration of area and perimeter, focusing specifically on rectilinear shapes. Through guided instruction, they acquired the skills necessary to calculate the area of various shapes, enhancing their mathematical understanding. In a creative application of their learning, the students designed their own theme parks, incorporating their knowledge of area to ensure optimal space utilisation. This project not only reinforced their mathematical skills but also fostered creativity and critical thinking, allowing for a comprehensive learning experience that integrates practical application with theoretical knowledge.

 

Thematic

This week, our studies have focused on the fascinating mechanics of Earth’s orbit around the Sun. We have explored how this celestial movement is responsible for the alternation of night and day. As the Earth rotates on its axis, different regions are exposed to sunlight, resulting in the cyclical pattern of day and night that we experience.

Moreover, we have examined the time it takes for various planets to complete their orbits around the Sun. For instance, while Earth takes approximately 365 days to make one full revolution, other planets, such as Jupiter, require nearly 12 Earth years to accomplish the same feat. This understanding not only enhances our knowledge of the solar system but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the intricate balance of celestial mechanics that governs our universe.

 

Immersion Students

This week, our Year 5 students have had the enriching experience of hosting Italian students. The children have fully immersed themselves in their roles as buddies, fostering friendships and engaging in meaningful interactions. Through this cultural exchange, they have gained invaluable insights into Italian traditions and customs, enhancing their understanding of global diversity. The initiative has not only promoted inclusivity but has also encouraged the students to appreciate the nuances of different cultures. Such experiences are instrumental in cultivating a more rounded educational environment, preparing our students for a multicultural world.

Christmas Art Competition

It’s that wonderful time of year again and what better way to celebrate than with some Christmas creativity!

This year, we’re inviting all pupils to take part in our Christmas Art Competition, with the brief of creating a Christmas decoration inspired by an artist or art style.

Your challenge is to design and make a decoration that shows both the spirit of Christmas and a link to an artist or artistic style. You can use any materials you like — card, paint, collage, recycled objects, fabric, glitter, or anything that makes your decoration shine!

Here are some ideas to inspire you, some of which we will discuss in our Christmas art assembly

• Pieter Bruegel the Elder – create a cosy winter village scene full of people and snow.

• Edward Burne-Jones (Pre-Raphaelite) – design a stained-glass-style angel using colour and pattern.

• Andy Warhol – make a Pop Art decoration with bright colours and repeating Christmas shapes.

• Yayoi Kusama – cover your bauble or star in dots and patterns like twinkling Christmas lights.

• Georgia O’Keeffe – take inspiration from nature — holly leaves, snowflakes, pinecones, or stars.

• Banksy – design something that shares a message of kindness, peace, or togetherness

To Enter:

1. Create your decoration linked to an artist or style.

2. Hand it in to Mr Mason or your class teacher, who will pass it on to him.

3. Make sure to include your name and class somewhere on your work.

4. Deadline: The last day of this term.

All entries will be displayed on our school Christmas tree art display, so everyone can admire your creativity. There will be prizes for outstanding entries. Winners will be announced in our next Art Assembly!

Christmas Fair

On Friday 12th December, we have our Christmas fair. The children will work in groups to run a stall of their choice. They need to bring everything in for their stall, including prizes and a float. They can have time in school to create posters. This is a fantastic opportunity for teamwork and thinking creatively! 

Key Dates

Wednesday 3^rd December- Open day

Friday 5^th December- Pantomime

Monday 8^th December- Christmas Concert

Tuesday 9^th December- Christmas Concert

Friday 12^th December- Christmas fair and Christmas Jumper Day

Tuesday 16^th December- Christmas lunch

Wednesday 17^th December- Year 5 party

Thursday 18^th December- Last day of term. School closes at 2pm.

 

Homework

- Please read with your child at least 3 times a week.

- All children have been given a ZPD to help them identify the correct books for their reading level. Once your child has read their book, they will need to complete a quiz on it before getting a new one. These quizzes can be done either in school or at home on Accelerated Reader using the log-in codes found in their reading records.

Welcome (renaissance-go.com) 

- Children should be playing TTRS at least 3 times a week to build their confidence and fluency with time-tables knowledge.

- Mathletics homework has also been set for the children to complete by next Friday.

- Please see the homework menu attached for our thematic homework. This can be completed in the homework book provided if you wish.

- Please choose ten spellings each week to practice with your child at home. They can use the format shown in the book.

The Year 5 team