Dear Parents/Carers,

We are thrilled to begin the second term with your children in Year 5. This term promises to be full of creativity and challenge as we continue to build on the progress made last half term. From investigating the mysteries of mythical creatures in English, to exploring the Romans in History and experimenting with forces in Science, we are looking forward to another exciting few weeks of learning and discovery together.

Maths:

In Maths this term, we continue to follow the White Rose Maths scheme. Our first block, Multiplication and Division, focuses on deepening understanding of factors, multiples, prime numbers, and efficient written methods for multiplication and division. Children will also work with square and cube numbers and develop reasoning skills to solve multi-step problems.

We will then move into Fractions, where pupils will recognise and convert between improper fractions and mixed numbers, and learn to add and subtract fractions with the same or related denominators. Throughout, there will be an emphasis on applying knowledge through reasoning and problem solving, using visual representations such as bar models and number lines to strengthen conceptual understanding.

English:

In English, our new Talk for Writing unit is inspired by Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell. The class will be writing explanation texts in the style of a field guide entry. Our model text, The Frost Phoenix, explores how writers use formal language, technical vocabulary, and varied sentence structures to inform and engage the reader.

Children will orally rehearse and map the model text before innovating their own explanation about an original creature. The unit will also focus on building ambitious vocabulary, cohesion between paragraphs, and the clear use of subheadings and diagrams. This unit aims to inspire curiosity, precision and creativity as pupils become imaginative “creature researchers.”

History:

Our topic this term is The Romans. This will build on previous knowledge and skills and will focus on what happened in Britain after the Romans left. Our studies will include a re-visit of the Roman legacy, looking at what they left behind, the reasons they departed, and what happened to the people of Britain when they never returned. We will investigate how historians and archaeologists uncover this fascinating period of history and the clues they use to tell its story.

Science:

We will be investigating Forces in Action and will start with a re-cap of gravity, friction, water resistance and air resistance. There will be opportunities to test the theories related to these forces through practical, hands-on investigations. We will also consider the importance of identifying variables and understanding fair testing. As ever, there will be an emphasis on accurate recording, presenting results clearly and using scientific vocabulary to explain findings.

Spellings:

We have embedded our new approach to learning spellings, with an emphasis on independence and engagement for all learners. Confident spellers and those making improvements over time will both be rewarded. The class spelling ‘passport’ will enable everyone to celebrate progress and success.

PE:

This half term, our PE lessons will focus on teamwork, strategy and fitness through sports such as netball and hockey. We will develop coordination and communication while refining passing, positioning and spatial awareness.

Art & Computing:

In Art, we will be using sketching and mixed media to explore Roman mosaics and decorative patterns. In Computing, we will build on coding skills, using loops and variables to design interactive programs, while also revisiting online safety and responsible digital use.

Homework:

Reading will continue to be expected for at least 20 minutes daily, with journals signed where possible. Maths tasks will usually focus on consolidation of key number skills, while Home Learning Grids will continue to offer a range of creative cross-curricular challenges.

Reminders:

PE this term will just be on Fridays (Christmas play practice will take place in our Monday slot), but please ensure that children have a named PE kit in school at all times, as workshops or special events may require changes.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Miss Willson and Mr Brinkley