As mathematicians, we have continued our unit on addition and subtraction. The children have been working on adding numbers with different numbers of digits and have shown great perseverance when solving more complex problems. They have also been using different strategies to check their answers and explain their reasoning. Next week, we will begin to explore subtraction using exchanging, building on what we have learned so far.

As writers, during our writing workshop, we have begun to look at the features of an information text. The children have identified its purpose, structure, and key language features, and have enjoyed comparing it to other types of writing. This will help them prepare to write their own information texts later in the unit.

In English, we have started our new topic, The Journal of Iliona. The children have really enjoyed reading the opening sections and stepping into the world of Ancient Rome through Iliona’s eyes. We have been exploring Iliona’s thoughts and emotions as she begins her journey from freedom to slavery, mapping how her feelings change as her circumstances shift. The children have shown great empathy and insight, using evidence from the text to describe how Iliona might be feeling at different points. We have also begun discussing how diary entries can help us understand a character’s personal perspective, which will support our own writing in the coming weeks.

As scientists, we have been investigating how light travels. The children worked in groups to become ‘science detectives,’ using what they know about light to help solve a mystery. It was wonderful to see such great teamwork and curiosity throughout the investigation!

Our PE lessons take place on Mondays and Wednesdays. The children will be developing their skills in gymnastics and cross-country running. Please ensure that the children are wearing their PE kits on these days.

Notices 

Thank you to all the parents who have already returned their permission slips for our upcoming trip to the Ashmolean Museum. If you haven’t yet returned yours, please do so as soon as possible. If you are able to help on the trip, we would be very grateful—please speak to your child’s class teacher.

Homelearning

Children have been sent home with home-learning tasks to complete.  Please continue to support your child in getting these completed as well as daily reading.

It’s been a wonderful first week back, and we look forward to another exciting week of learning ahead!

The Oceans Team