Term 6 2024-25 

End of Year Reflections

As we reach the end of another fantastic school year, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible effort and progress the children have made. Each pupil has worked hard, tried their best, and continued to grow in confidence, resilience, and independence. We’ve shared so many wonderful learning experiences throughout the year, from exciting Science experiments to creative writing and thought-provoking history lessons. It has been an absolute pleasure to teach this class, and I have genuinely enjoyed every moment we’ve spent together. Well done to everyone for a brilliant year!

English

This Term, our English learning has centred around the genre of myth writing, with a particular focus on Roman mythology. We began by exploring a model text about the Roman god Jupiter, which cleverly explained how bees came to have their stingers. Using this as inspiration, we identified the key features of myth writing, including their structure, the use of powerful language, and how mythical stories are used to explain natural events or life lessons.

As a class, we then worked together to plan and write a new myth based on Mercury, the Roman messenger god. Our innovated myth taught an important message about being grateful for what you have – something the children were able to reflect on through their writing.

After this, the children explored a range of Roman gods and goddesses independently and used their knowledge to plan their own original myths. They worked hard to include expanded noun phrases, prepositions, and direct speech to develop their characters and settings. Finally, the children edited, improved, and published their myths in their best handwriting. The results were imaginative, thoughtful, and demonstrated fantastic progress in both narrative structure and descriptive language.

Maths

This term, we began by completing our unit on fractions, building on the learning from last term. Canadian Bears learned how to add and subtract simple fractions and how to partition a whole into equal parts. They also practised finding fractions of given amounts, for example, working out what 2/3 of 30 is. This helped to strengthen their understanding of the relationship between division and fractions.

We then moved on to the topic of mass. The children developed the concept of using scales to measure mass in grams and kilograms. They learned to compare masses, find equivalent weights, and solve problems involving adding and subtracting mass. This unit gave them a practical insight into how we use measurement in everyday life.

Finally, we began our unit on capacity and volume. The children explored how to measure liquids using litres and millilitres. They learned to read different types of measuring containers and gained confidence in estimating and comparing capacities.

Across all units, there was a strong focus on using mathematical vocabulary and applying reasoning to problem-solving activities. The children enjoyed using practical resources and showed excellent progress in applying their skills to real-life contexts.

DT

In DT, Canadian Bears have been focused on greenhouses – what they are, how they are used, and how their structures support plant growth. We began by learning about the key features that make greenhouses effective, including their ability to let in light, retain warmth, and protect plants from the elements.

To explore how to make strong structures, we created mini-frames using matchsticks and blu-tac, testing them by applying hand pressure to see how well they held up. We discovered how using triangular shapes and secure joins helped improve stability.

Next, we investigated which materials would be most suitable for the coverings of our greenhouses. We poured water over different materials to test for waterproofing, observing whether or not the water seeped through. This helped us make informed decisions when it came to the final builds.

Finally, we designed and constructed our own miniature greenhouses using lollipop sticks for the frames, wood glue to hold them together, and a combination of plastic sheets and paper to form the walls and roof. The children worked brilliantly throughout the project, showing creativity, teamwork, and excellent problem-solving skills. The finished products were impressive and showed a clear understanding of the design process from start to finish.

Topic

This term, we continued our Emperors and Empires history unit, building on the learning from last term. Our focus remained on the Roman Empire, with a deeper look at key events and people who shaped its expansion and influence.

We began by learning about different Roman emperors, comparing their leadership styles, achievements, and the impact they had on the empire. This led to an exploration of the hierarchy in Ancient Rome, where we examined the roles of different social classes and how Roman society was structured.

One of the highlights of the term was learning about the Roman army. The children were fascinated by its organisation, strength, and discipline – and how it played a vital role in the empire’s success. Following on from this, we explored the Romans’ attempts to expand into Britain, beginning with Julius Caesar’s first invasion and leading into the Roman conquest under Emperor Claudius.

To finish the unit, we learned about Boudicca’s rebellion, examining why she fought back and what her legacy means today. The children enjoyed taking part in discussions and activities that encouraged empathy, critical thinking, and debate. It was a fantastic way to conclude our Roman topic with a real sense of historical curiosity and understanding.

Science Week – Change and Adapt

As part of Science Week, our learning focused on the theme of change and adapt. Throughout the week, we explored how and why animals evolve over time to suit their environments. Using examples such as giraffes, camels, polar bears, aardvarks, pangolins, and anteaters, we discussed the physical adaptations that help these animals survive in harsh or unique climates.

A key part of our learning focused on the finches of the Galápagos Islands, which have evolved into over 13 different species. We discussed why this may have happened and how their different beak shapes are suited to specific types of food.

To investigate this further, we conducted an experiment to test which beak type would be most effective for picking up different foods. Using tools like tweezers, spoons, and pegs to represent beaks, and items like beads, cotton balls, and rubber bands to represent food, we timed how many pieces of each food could be collected in 20 seconds. This helped us understand how adaptations develop through need and environment.

To end the week, children designed their own animal adapted to an extreme environment and explained how its features would help it survive. It was a week full of curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning!