Maths

This week, we have started our learning about line graphs and timetables. The children have been developing their ability to read and interpret graphs, using information presented in different formats. They have been encouraged to identify key data, make comparisons and explain what the information shows. Learning about timetables has also supported their understanding of sequencing events and interpreting times accurately.

Next week, the children will carry out their arithmetic assessment for the term. This will provide an opportunity to review their understanding of the calculation strategies covered so far and to identify areas for continued development.

Alongside the assessment, the children will continue their learning about line graphs, including constructing their own. They will apply their understanding of axes, scales and labelled data, before using their completed graphs to answer questions and communicate findings clearly.

 

English

This week, the children have developed their instructional writing by producing clear instructions on how to make island soup, linking their work to Kensuke’s Kingdom. They explored the features of this text type, including the use of imperative verbs to give direct commands and time conjunctions to sequence each stage effectively. The children applied these grammatical structures to organise their ideas and communicate the process clearly.

Next week, the children will write a non-chronological report about a North American country, linking their writing to their thematic learning this term. They will research and organise relevant information, considering how reports use formal language, headings and paragraphs to present facts clearly. The grammatical focus will be subordinate clauses. The children will identify and use these clauses to add detail and explanation to their sentences, supporting the development of more varied and precise written work.

Thematic

This week, we have been learning about the life cycles of desert animals and plants. The children have explored how living things grow, change and reproduce, with particular attention to the adaptations that support survival in hot, dry environments. They have used photographs, information texts and discussion to compare different life cycles and develop their scientific vocabulary.

A key highlight was releasing our butterflies. The children observed their development closely and then released them responsibly, applying their understanding of life cycles to a real-life experience. This provided an opportunity to discuss change, habitats and the importance of caring for living things.

Next week, we will begin learning about Judaism as our Religious Education (RE) focus for the term. The children will develop their understanding of Jewish beliefs, traditions and practices through age-appropriate discussion, stories and activities. This learning will support respectful consideration of different religious identities and ways of life.

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.

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.

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!

Billie.Danson@uptonjunior.com

Isobel.Reed@uptonjunior.com

Maisie.Sullivan@uptonjunior.com

Callum.Noble@uptonjunior.com

Natasha.Hyams@uptonjunior.com

Polly.Cooke@uptonjunior.com

Scientist of the term

Last chance to enter the scientist of the term competition! See previous Blog post for information. 

The Year 5 team