Spring Term

Art

This week in art, Pine Class has been hard at work crafting stunning 3D models of the planets in our solar system. Using acrylic paints, the children skillfully captured the intricate patterns and vibrant colours of each planet, resulting in fantastic pieces that will add a bright, creative touch to our classroom. 

English

In English this week, Pine Class have been looking at what makes a successful balanced argument, including features such as rhetorical questions, facts and emotive language. The children then went on to write their own balanced argument on the topic of whether animals should be kept in captivity. Pine Class produced some absolutely fantastic balanced arguments, and showed great enthusiasm in this piece of writing. 

Maths

Pine Class have been working hard in Maths this week to complete a unit on negative numbers. They have persevered in their learning and have now mastered how to order, compare and add/subtract negative numbers, and have even completed some tricky word problems too! 

Science

We have just started our new unit of learning in science on "Earth and Space" in Pine Class. This week, the children have produced a fact file on the 8 planets within our solar system. They have accurately ordered the planets in terms of their distance from the sun and researched a range of interesting facts about each planet. The children have shown great enthusiasm and interest in our new topic!

 

Autumn Term 

Science

In science this term, Pine Class have been studying living things and their habitats. We have been learning about the different classifications of animals, such as mammals, amphibians, reptiles and birds, and the different ways in which these creatures reproduce. We have also explored the different parts of a range of plants and the ways in which they reproduce. Finally, we ended this unit with a detailed investigation into the life and achievements of David Attenborough and his work within the field of living things and their habitats. 

PE

During PE in the Autumn Term, we focused on improving our football skills. We learnt how to dribble, pass and shoot, and practised the key skills necessary to succeed in football, including teamwork, communication, collaboration and sportsmanship.

History

Pine Class have thoroughly enjoyed their history unit this term, learning about the Victorian era. We have been explored Queen Victoria’s life and legacy, discovering how her reign shaped Britain. We have also looked at the Industrial Revolution, when new inventions and factories changed the way people lived and worked across the United Kingdom. As well as this, the children investigated the harsh conditions in Victorian workhouses, Victorian schools, and even the dangerous coal mines where many children as young as five worked. 

English

It was UK Parliament Week from the 18^th to the 24^th of November 2024, and to coincide with this event, Pine Class learnt all about parliament in English. The children learnt about the House of Commons, the House of Lords and the monarchy, and how these 3 things form parliament. Following on from this learning, the children wrote their own balanced argument. The children ensured that their balanced argument included key features of a debate, including formal language, rhetorical questions and facts. Pine Class wrote some wonderful debates and took great pride in their work.

Art

In art this term, Pine Class have created their own still-life drawings. The children have also painted some stunning versions of Van Gogh's "Starry Night". The students have produced some beautiful pieces of work this term and we are very proud of their determination, focus and effort. 

Geography

In Geography this term, Year 5 have been studying rivers, including their involvement in the water cycle. Students explored the different parts of a river, including its source, channel, mouth, and more. The children also looked at the human features of rivers, such as bridges, dams, and settlements that rely on rivers for water and transportation. Pine Class explored the fascinating world of river habitats, where they learnt about the animals and plants that live in and around rivers. The pupils also studied the water cycle, understanding how water moves through evaporation, condensation, and precipitation and accumulation. To finish the unit, the class investigated river management strategies, like flood prevention through dredging and river straightening. It's been an exciting and educational term!

Visit from the Yeoman Warder

Pine Class had the chance to meet Yeoman Warder Barnett, who came all the way from The Tower of London. The children got to hear his fascinating (and gruesome!) stories of history from the Tower. He talked about his own Naval career, which led him to becoming a Beefeater in 2023. His visit inspired the children to think about their own aspirations and where their own interests can lead them in the future. Year 5 then wrote letters of thanks to YW Barnett to thank him for his time and this once in a lifetime opportunity; it’s not everyday you get a member of the Royal Palaces visit your school!