An excellent start to term 2!
Maths
This week, the children have been learning how to read timetables for sporting events or transport. This work has required them to interpret schedules accurately, identify departure and arrival times, and compare entries within a timetable. They have worked hard to find out the time it has taken to carry out events or how long the journey is. In doing so, they have developed greater confidence in applying time-related reasoning to practical situations.
Next week, we will be learning about multiplication and division and looking at formal methods. The children will be expected to connect their understanding of number relationships with clear, systematically presented written calculations. They will consider how multiplication and division are related, select appropriate methods, and explain the steps involved in reaching an answer. Accuracy, place value and careful checking will remain central as they consolidate these essential mathematical skills.
English
This week, the children have looked at the poem, ‘The Lady of Shallot’. Through close reading and discussion, they considered how the poet presents the castle and its surroundings, paying attention to the language that creates vivid images and atmosphere.
The children then created two descriptive stanzas to describe the castle and its surroundings. In their writing, they focused on using expanded noun phrases and figurative language to select precise details and develop the reader’s picture of the setting. This provided an opportunity to apply their understanding of descriptive vocabulary within a carefully structured poetic form.
Next week, we will be starting our new class text, ‘Street Child’. Our writing will focus on producing a character description, with particular attention to descriptive language. The children will consider how carefully chosen vocabulary can communicate a character’s appearance, personality and circumstances before applying these techniques in their own writing.
Thematic
This week, the children have been looking at respect as a key theme for our PSHE learning this term. Through a range of activities, they have considered how respectful attitudes and behaviours contribute to positive relationships and an inclusive classroom environment.
The children created artwork to represent their understanding of respect, worked collaboratively in pairs and participated in class discussions around this theme. These activities provided opportunities for them to listen carefully to different viewpoints, express their own ideas and consider how respect can be demonstrated in everyday situations.
They have also been looking into the protected characteristics and the Equality Act. This has supported their developing understanding of equality, fairness and the importance of treating all members of society with dignity.
Next week, we will be starting our ‘Stargazers’ topic, with a particular focus on Galileo. The children will begin exploring his significance and his contribution to our understanding of the universe.
Key dates
Wednesday 11th November- Remembrance Day
Friday 13th November- Children in need. Children to wear their own clothes for a donation.
Monday 16th November- Odd socks day for anti-bullying week.
Friday 4th December- Pantomine
Important messages and dates
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Friday is swimming for 5R and 5Y. 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.
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Children can come to school in their PE kit on swimming days.
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Please ensure children are wearing correct school uniform and shoes, including a tie.
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Please ensure children are bringing in their water bottles every day, preferably with a sports cap.
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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!
The Year 5 team
