Summer 1

We hope everyone had a wonderful break and feels refreshed. We have lots of exciting learning lined up for Summer term, here is a summary of what we’ll get up to:

History: Mayans - What are the Maya civilisations greatest achievements?

During this topic, we will be learning about:

• when the Mayan civilisation happened
• what the Maya society and social structure
• why the Mayans believed in Gods and what they did to keep them happy
• what achievements the Mayans made that still impress us today
• what made the Mayan buildings so special and why they built them

English

In English, pupils will begin by exploring the features of explanation texts, using their learning about the water cycle to inform their writing. They will then move on to create detailed fact files linked to our science learning, before concluding the term by writing persuasively and expressing contrasting viewpoints.

Grammar work will focus on the use of adverbs, prepositions, and conjunctions to express time, place, and cause.

Our class read, My Family and Other Romans, will continue to enrich their vocabulary and comprehension skills.

Science – Animals Including Humans

Our science topic will focus on the human body and nutrition. Pupils will learn that humans and some animals have skeletons and muscles that support movement, protection, and posture. They’ll also investigate the different types of nutrition animals need and understand how they get energy from the food they eat. This scientific understanding will directly link to their English fact files.

Computing – Digital Writing

In computing, children will develop their confidence using the keyboard and basic text-editing tools. They will learn how to add and remove text, use the toolbar to format their writing, and make changes to their digital work. This will support their writing across the curriculum.

Maths

In maths, children will deepen their understanding of capacity, learn about 2D and 3D shapes, and begin exploring decimals, with a particular focus on tenths. These concepts will be taught through practical activities, problem-solving, and reasoning tasks to develop confidence and fluency.

PE – Net & Wall Games (Tennis)

This term in PE, children will take part in net and wall games with a focus on tennis. They will learn about the ready position, practise movement and coordination skills, and begin to use the forehand technique. Through game-based learning, they’ll also explore tactics such as aiming for space and positioning themselves to return the ball effectively.

RE – Islam: Rites of Passage

In RE, children will develop their understanding of Islam by exploring the Five Pillars and the significance of key life events such as birth, marriage, and funerals. They’ll also discover the importance of Hajj and what it means to Muslim believers, fostering respect and curiosity for different cultures and traditions.

PSHE – Relationships

Our PSHE sessions will help children explore the roles and responsibilities within families, practise the skills of friendship, and learn strategies to stay safe. Pupils will also reflect on life experiences of children around the world, encouraging empathy and global awareness.

ESR – Ecosystems: “I Speak for the Trees”

This term’s ESR theme encourages children to become advocates for the environment. Through discussions and creative projects, they’ll learn about ecosystems and the importance of protecting our planet – inspired by the message from The Lorax: “I speak for the trees!”

Music – In the Past

In music, pupils will delve into the origins of pitch and how people in the past created music. Through listening and practical activities, they’ll develop their understanding of musical history and expression.

Art – Sculpture and 3D: Abstract Shape and Space

Pupils will explore the world of sculpture by experimenting with different ways to make card shapes three-dimensional. They will design and create abstract, free-standing structures while learning to explain the differences between 2D and 3D art in simple terms.

Design Technology – Mini Greenhouses

In DT, children will investigate real greenhouses, explore stable structures and suitable materials, and then design and build their very own mini greenhouses. They’ll take pride in evaluating their creations and understanding how design meets function in the real world.