Term 1
What have we been learning?
This term we have been answering the question, ‘How do the human and physical features of England compare with those in Mexico?” We looked at the Maya and how they lived, what their social systems were like, and how they used the land. We then compared their land use to ours.

In Writing lessons, we have written a number of text genres within the broad topic of the Maya including a setting description, a character description using dialogue and a suspense piece of writing focusing on an intense game of Pok-a-tok.  We have been working hard in maths to extend our knowledge of decimal fractions and to apply this to money.  In Science we have looked at living things and the differences between birds, reptiles and mammals. We used our enquiry skills to dissect a hen’s egg and identify its key parts.

Wow moments - We have started year 5 with weekly swimming lessons in addition to our PE lessons, which we have thoroughly enjoyed.  We also spent some time learning how to play Quidditch (minus the brooms!). Harry Potter fans amongst us were able to choose their favourite house teams to play for.  As part of our Maya topic, we recreated a war mask using clay and decorated in vivid colours inspired by Dan Fenlon.

Home Learning - A reminder that the children are expected to read at least four times a week at home and sign their diary to show they have done so. They can sign their diary themselves if they read independently, however it is also important to hear your child read aloud regularly (and it’s lovely to share stories together!).  At the moment our year five homework is to practice times tables, read and practice spellings.

(Other):

• We have elected school council members.
• Took part in an online webinar with author Katherine Rundell.
• Did our first year 5 assessments.
• Both classes had their class assemblies