Maths

This week the children have been learning about place value of 5-digit numbers, ordering and comparing 5-digit numbers and rounding to the nearest 100, 1000 and 10000.

We have had lots of thoughtful discussion as the children explored how each digit changes the value of a number. They worked hard to spot the difference between numbers that look similar at first glance, and they used their understanding to decide which numbers were greater, smaller or equal.

Rounding has also been a big focus. The children have been practising how to round numbers to the nearest 100, 1000 and 10000, and they are becoming more confident at explaining their choices.

It has been lovely to see them using mathematical language carefully and supporting one another during activities. Their confidence is growing, and there has been a real sense of enthusiasm in the classroom.

 

English

This week we have started our new text, Kensuke’s Kingdom, and the children have really enjoyed stepping into the story. We have been exploring the opening and thinking carefully about the main character’s experiences. To support this, the children have been writing a letter from the main character’s point of view, which has given them the chance to practise thoughtful writing and imaginative ideas.

In our PAG lessons, our focus has been co-ordinating conjunctions. The children have worked hard to join ideas more effectively and make their sentences flow. We have also been focusing on double consonants in spelling, and the children have been spotting these carefully in their writing.

Next week, we are looking writing a setting description for the waves. We are excited to see how the children use descriptive language to bring the scene to life.

Thematic

This week we introduced our thematic for the term, Across the Pond, which is all about North America. The children have settled brilliantly into the topic and have already shown lots of curiosity as we began our learning journey.

We started by looking at the origins of North America and learning about colonisation. This gave us a chance to think carefully about how places and people change over time. From there, we moved on to exploring five different countries in North America and identifying where each one is located on the map. The children researched each country and found fun facts to add to their own maps, making their learning lively and personal.

To finish the week, we enjoyed an art carousel and created a mini art piece inspired by four different North American artists. It was a great way to bring together creativity and culture.

Next week, we will be learning about the topography of the UK and North America.

Important messages and dates

• Friday is swimming for 4B and 4G. Please ensure that full swimming kit is brought in on that day. If your child cannot take part, please contact their teacher or the office to explain why. Children MUST have a swim cap and earrings removed.

• Children can come to school in their PE kit on swimming days.

• Please ensure children are wearing correct school uniform and shoes, including a tie.

• Please ensure children are bringing in their water bottles every day, preferably with a sports cap.

• PE is on a Thursday. Children to come to school in their PE kit.

• Monkton Nature reserve 29.9.26 B and Y

• Monkton Nature reserve 1.10.26 R and G

OPAL

At Upton, play is incredibly important and we want our children to be able to experience every part of our outdoor provision.  Please can we ask that children come to school with named wellies that they can leave at school, alongside a waterproof jacket.  Our children are outside in all weathers every day.

Usernames and passwords

The children will come home over the next two weeks with a reading record, a new Accelerated Reader level and password and TTRS passwords.  

Home Learning

At Upton, our expectation for home learning is to read 3 times a week at home.  We would like the children to bring their signed reading records into school daily so that these can be signed by their class teacher.  Reading is incredibly important, especially as we get the children ready for the next stage of their education.  We also ask that the children practise times tables regularly at home. 

Thank you for your support.  Please contact us if you have any questions, worries or to tell us of any success that your child experiences outside of school!

The Year 5 team