Problem Solving in Year 6 - Maths

This week, Year 6 were challenged with a number of Maths problems to solve. They worked collaboratively to develop and test their strategies to tackle the tricky problems. When they had solved them, they evaluated their approaches to see whether they had adopted the most efficient approach. They are looking forward to lots more problem solving next term. 

Year 1 History

In history, we talked about family members and how not all families are the same. We used question words to ask questions about pictures that were from a long time ago. The children loved sharing pictures and talking about special family events. 

Mathletics in Year 6 - Maths

Today, Elm Class spent some time using Mathletics. 

Each child used their unique log in to access the learning set by their teacher. 

The learning on Mathletics links directly to the learning children are doing in school so it's a great way for children to revisit previously taught concepts. The children can practise key skills and then take a test to earn points and awards. 

If you haven't used Mathletics yet, log in and see what you can do! 

If you need your Mathletics log in, please speak to your teacher. 

Black History Month in Year 6 - History

Our school curriculum is thoughtfully designed to be inclusive and diverse, reflecting a commitment to representing a wide range of voices and experiences. As it's Black History Month, Year 6 wanted to delve deeper into the history of black people in Britain, focusing on stories that may not be well-known - this links to the theme of this year's BHM, Reclaiming Narratives.

Today, children reflected on their own understanding of black British history by thinking about their initial views of the arrival of black people in Britain. 

After an initial reflection and discussion, children learnt about a range of significant figures that challenged their initial views:

1. The Beachy Head Woman was the name given to the remains of a woman discovered near Beachy Head, East Sussex, England, in 1953. She lived around 1,800 years ago, during the Roman period in Britain (3rd or 4th century AD) and is believed to have been of Sub-Saharan African descent.

This discovery highlights that people from diverse backgrounds lived in Britain much earlier than previously thought. Her story has helped broaden our understanding of migration and diversity in ancient Britain. 

2. John Blanke was a Black musician, specifically a trumpeter, who served in the courts of both Henry VII and Henry VIII in early 16th-century England. He is one of the earliest documented Black people in Tudor England and an exceptional figure portrayed in the 1511 Westminster Tournament Roll. He played at major royal events, including the 1511 tournament held to celebrate the birth of Henry VIII's son. 

John Blanke’s presence provides a glimpse into the multicultural aspects of Tudor society. 

3. Jacques Francis was a skilled African diver in the 16th century, known for his work recovering valuable cargo from shipwrecks in Tudor England. He was originally from Guinea in West Africa, and he gained recognition in Europe for his expertise in underwater salvage operations. Jacques Francis led a team tasked with recovering guns and other valuables from the wreck of the Mary Rose which was Henry VIII’s warship that sank in 1545 near Portsmouth.

He also became the first recorded Black person to give testimony in an English court.

Can you research another black significant figure from British history who may have had their story lost over time? 

Reception Understanding the World Diwali

Whilst exploring the story, 'The Invisible String' by Patrice Karst we discussed different celebrations and festivals celebrated across the world. We learnt about 'Diwali' which is celebrated by some of the children in our class, who shared their own experiences. Here are some of the activities we explored in our classroom:

Using foam shapes to create our own Rangoli patterns.

Using resources available to decorate paper plate diyas. 

Showing our value of the month cooperation, when working together to create a large scale rangoli pattern. 

 Preparing a feast in the home corner ready for the Diwali celebrations. 

KS2 Theatre Assembly

KS2 were treated to a preview of 'Kickmouse Mysterium' which will be on at Greenwich Theatre this half term. More information can be found here: https://greenwichtheatre.org.uk/events/kickmouse/

Laughter filled the school hall!

 

Drama in Year 1

Children have enjoyed practising different elements of drama including, stance, gesture, facial expressions as well as tone and volume of voice. They created their ow stories and acted out the different characters.

Year 1 Belonging

In RE, we learnt about what belonging means and discussed the different groups, teams and communities we are a part of. The children really enjoyed creating family trees and talking about their families.

Lemon at the library

 

Year 1 Smoothie Making

In Year 1, we were introduced to Food Technology. We spoke about healthy snacks. We chose our favourite fruits to put into our smoothie. We learnt about food hygiene and how to use kitchen equipment safely. The children enjoyed tasting and sharing the smoothie. They all loved it!