Thematic

This week in Thematic, we’ve been exploring the beliefs of the Maya, learning how the Maya viewed their gods, and the spiritual importance of rituals and temples. The children were especially intrigued by the role of the priests and the ways in which the Maya connected their everyday lives with the divine. We also examined the Maya number system —the children enjoyed trying their hand at writing numbers the Maya way and were amazed at how different it is from the system we use today. In addition, we explored the Maya writing system- children practised decoding glyphs and even created their own versions of Maya-style writing to tell short stories or record important events. 

     

                    

Looking ahead to next week, our focus will shift to the decline of the Maya civilisation. We’ll investigate how the great cities of the Maya began to fall into ruin over time, and explore the many theories historians have developed to explain this mysterious collapse. We’ll also be learning about the arrival of the Spanish invaders and the significant impact they had on Maya society and culture.

Maths

This week in Maths, the children have been developing their understanding of fractions by comparing their sizes. To help with this, we introduced fraction walls, which proved to be an excellent visual tool. These allowed the children to see how different fractions relate to each other in size and supported them in identifying equivalent fractions. The children enjoyed using the fraction walls to challenge their assumptions about how fractions work. It was fantastic to see their confidence grow as they used the visual model to explain and justify their answers.

Next week, we’re moving on to an exciting new topic: Angles and Shapes. We’ll be learning to identify different types of angles and will likewise learn about the properties of 2D and 3D shapes. We’re looking forward to seeing the children apply their reasoning skills in this new area of learning!

English

This week in English, the children have been putting themselves in the shoes of Jelly, the main character from 'The Great Chocoplot'. Through journal writing, they explored Jelly’s thoughts and feelings as he faces the dramatic news that chocolate might disappear forever! The focus has been on using emotive language to bring Jelly’s voice to life — helping readers connect with her excitement. It’s been a joy to see the children immerse themselves in the character and experiment with language that evokes strong emotions.

Next week, we’ll be shifting gears from fiction to non-fiction as the children begin writing an explanation text on how chocolate is made. We’re looking forward to combining clear, informative writing with the creativity and curiosity the children have shown throughout this topic!

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. Homework is due in on Friday 23^rd May.

Spellings

To support children with their spellings, we would like children to practise at home, using Sir Linkalot.

To access it on a laptop, PC, Mac or Chromebook (therefore IWBs): 
1. Type in the browser itself where you normally type www (not a search engine)...app.sirlinkalot.org (with no Ws before it) 
2. Click on 'More' (top right) 
3. Click on 'Sign in' 
4. The children will then need to type in their access code  

Times Tables Rock Stars  

• Tasks to be completed online. 

• Children’s logins are stuck in their Reading journal.   

Mathletics  

• Mathletics tasks will be set from Friday to Friday.  

• Tasks will always follow the learning that week.  

Children’s logins are stuck into their Reading journal.  

Reminder to ensure:

• Children are wearing correct school uniform and shoes.

• Children are bringing in their water bottles.

• Children to bring in healthy snacks for breaktimes.  

• 3B and 3G have their swimming sessions on Mondays. 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 and swimming hat.