Samphire Class - Year 5
Staff: Mrs Roy, Mrs Bunting and Mrs Irvine
Maths
In Maths, we begin the term with a focus on place value, addition, and subtraction. Children will compare and order numbers up to 1,000,000, round to the nearest 10, 100, or 1,000, and interpret negative numbers in real-life contexts. They will also explore powers of ten and apply this understanding to solve practical problems. As part of our work on addition and subtraction, pupils will learn to add and subtract whole numbers with more than four digits using formal written methods, such as column addition and subtraction. We will also focus on solving multi-step problems, practising all four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division), and learning to choose the most efficient and effective method for different problem types.
English
In English, our writing is inspired by When We Walked on the Moon by David Long. Through this non-fiction text, children will explore the theme of space discovery while developing their writing skills. Building on their Year 4 knowledge, they will focus on using modal verbs and relative clauses, leading to two key outcomes: an exploration narrative and a formal mission log. These writing tasks link closely with our Science and Geography learning about exploration, adaptation, and the natural world. In Guided Reading, we will study The Explorer by Katherine Rundell, a gripping adventure story set in the Amazon rainforest. This story connects to our Geography and Science work and explores themes of friendship, survival, and the environment. Children will develop reading skills such as vocabulary development, prediction, retrieval, comparison, and understanding how language choices enhance meaning.
Discovery Learning
This term, pupils will study life cycles and reproduction in science, exploring how mammals, birds, amphibians, and plants grow and adapt to their environments. In Geography, they will investigate South American rainforests, focusing on climate, biodiversity, and the impact of deforestation and climate change. In Art, children will explore power in portraiture by comparing classical works with contemporary artist Kehinde Wiley, examining how identity and status are shown through art. In RE, they will reflect on happiness and purpose through the lens of Humanism, considering their own beliefs and values. Computing will focus on systems and searching, helping pupils understand how digital information is organised. In PE, children will develop teamwork and strategy through Hockey and Outdoor Adventurous Activities. In Music, they will explore the history and key features of the rock genre. A central theme of identity will run through the term, encouraging children to reflect on their own backgrounds, build confidence, celebrate diversity, and develop empathy.
General Notices
P.E. and Outdoor Learning
PE days are Tuesday and Friday. Woodlands is on Wednesdays.
Reading Challenge
In Year 5, we are working hard to promote the importance of reading and show children how enjoyable reading can be. We promote reading for pleasure throughout the school and encourage the children to read every day. At school, we have supplied our in-class reading area with a range of age-appropriate fiction and non-fiction high-quality texts for children to access.
Class Dojo
Class Dojo will continue to be used this year. It is a great space where you can view photos, videos and information about what is happening in Year 5 and across the school. If you require another invitation to join, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Belongings
Please can you ensure that all belongings and named (PE Kits – Wellies – School Uniform – Bags – Coats – Water bottles etc).