Thematic

On Wednesday, our day filled with creativity, exploration, and hands-on learning as we enjoyed a special WOW Day! Our classrooms were transported back in time to the Stone Age, where history was brought to life through art, crafts, and an engaging archaeology workshop led by none other than Mr McAuley, the Head of School from Chilton. Mr McAuley has a fascinating background; before entering the teaching profession, Mr McAuley worked as an archaeologist. His visit was an incredible opportunity for us to dive deep into history and explore the world of ancient artefacts and archaeology.

Mr. McAuley’s workshop gave us a chance to step into the shoes of an archaeologist. With his expert guidance, we explored a range of ancient artefacts, learning how to analyse and interpret them. Children were given the task of using evidence to sort objects into different time periods, just like real archaeologists! We carefully examined each item, discussing its significance and imagining what life might have been like for the people who created and used them.

Of course, no WOW Day would be complete without tapping into our creative side. Inspired by what we learnt, we spent the afternoon engaging in themed arts and crafts activities that brought history to life. Using earth tones and simple tools, our Year 3s recreated their own versions of cave paintings, mimicking the early art forms used by prehistoric humans. It was incredible to see everyone get messy and experiment with shapes and symbols just like our ancestors did. We also designed and made our own jewellery using clay and string. We also tried our hands at making pottery, moulding clay into simple bowls and vessels reminiscent of Stone Age ceramic work. Some children even engraved patterns and symbols, adding a personal touch to their creations.

Our WOW Day was a truly immersive experience that allowed children to connect with history in a unique and engaging way. The combination of archaeology, arts, and crafts sparked curiosity and creativity, offering everyone a chance to learn by doing.

Next week, children will move onto looking at Bronze Age and Iron age, exploring advancements in technology, by exploring tools and inventions used by early humans, such as stone tools, hand axes, and spears, learning about the materials and techniques used to create them.

 

 

         

  

       

 

    

 

English

This week in English, our children have spent time crafting vivid and atmospheric descriptions using ambitious vocabulary and a focus on the writing skill of expanded noun phrases. Inspired by our class text, the children have been exploring new and ambitious vocabulary, aiming to choose words that go beyond the ordinary and make their descriptions truly stand out. One of the key skills the children have been focusing on is expanded noun phrases. This technique allows them to add detail and richness to their writing by building on a simple noun with adjectives. Through practice, they are learning how to use these phrases not just to add detail, but to build atmosphere and mood in their descriptions.

On Thursday of this week, the whole school celebrated National Poetry Day. The theme this year was counting and as such, the children embraced the art of poetry by diving into ‘The Terrible Ten’ by James Carter. They spent the morning engaging with a variety of poems, reading and discussing their structure, themes, and rhythm. Drawing inspiration from these poems, the children planned and wrote their own poems based on a counting theme. They explored language, rhythm, and creativity to craft original pieces. Once children had written their poems, the children then showcased their poems by performing them to an audience, building their confidence in public speaking and expression. It was a fun and enriching experience for everyone involved, allowing the children to celebrate their creativity and develop a deeper appreciation for poetry.

Next week in English, the children will focus on writing a set of instructions, inspired by their work with the Stone Age Boy text. They will explore the key features of instructional writing and will learn how to plan and write a set of instructions.

Maths

This week in Maths, the children have been focusing on solving calculations using known number facts. They've been exploring efficient strategies for addition, such as making use of number bonds, doubles, and near doubles, as well as using partitioning to break numbers into more manageable parts.

Through hands-on activities and problem-solving tasks, the children have developed their ability to add numbers quickly and accurately, building their confidence with mental maths and recognising patterns that help make calculations more efficient.

Next week in Maths, the children will continue developing their understanding of both addition and subtraction by focusing on efficient strategies. They will build on their previous learning and will begin to look at regrouping.

Home Learning

Attached below, is the overarching Thematic Curriculum homework ideas. Please refer to the homework menu which gives a variety of creative tasks for the children to choose from. Children only need to complete one task as a minimum, but can choose to complete more if they wish. Children have been given a Home Learning book to complete their Home Learning tasks in.

Home Learning is due in on Friday 25^th October 2024

Reading journals

Please ensure children are reading every night and are likewise taking quizzes.

Spellings

To support children with their spellings, we would like children to practise ‘Level 1- PIE PLATH Bundle’

To access it on a laptop, PC, Mac or Chromebook (therefore IWBs):
1. Type in the browser itself where you normally type www (not a search engine)...app.sirlinkalot.org (with no Ws before it)
2. Click on 'More' (top right)
3. Click on 'Sign in'
4. The children will then need to type in their access code 

Times Tables Rock Stars

• Tasks to be completed online, with new tasks set every week.

• Children’s logins will be stuck into their Reading journal.

Mathletics

• Once a week- this week’s tasks have been set.

• Tasks will always follow the learning that week.

• Children’s logins are stuck into their Reading journal.

Reminders

• Year 3 have PE on Tuesdays and should come to school dressed in the correct school PE kit.

• 3B and 3G will swim on Mondays this term- children will need to come dressed in their PE kit to school on this day, and bring with them their swimming costumes to change into. 

• Swimming kit reminder: full swimming costume/swim shorts and swimming hat.

• Should you wish to discuss how your child has settled, don’t forget to sign yourself up for a 5-minute parent-teacher meeting for Monday 16^th September. Meetings will be held from 1pm until 4pm- we look forward to seeing you there.

• Children to bring in healthy snacks for breaktimes.