English
Welcome back! This half term, our English work will be inspired by Rooftoppers by Katherine Rundell – a beautifully written story of courage, hope, and adventure, set high above the streets of Paris. As we read, we’ll explore the themes of belonging, resilience, and bravery, as well as the importance of friendship and trust.
Alongside our novel study, we will be focusing on the poem We Refugees by Benjamin Zephaniah. This powerful piece will help us to reflect on themes of identity, empathy, and human experience. Using the poem as inspiration, the children will write their own diary entries, showing emotion and perspective through their writing.
We will also develop our narrative skills, experimenting with description, dialogue, and atmosphere to create our own exciting rooftop adventures.
Spelling work this term will begin by recapping Year 3 and 4 rules to consolidate understanding, before moving on to Year 5 and 6 statutory spellings and homophones. Children are encouraged to continue working towards their spelling badges if they haven’t already achieved them – a great way to boost confidence and celebrate progress!
Alongside our writing, we will continue to develop grammar skills, including building complex sentences and varying sentence structures for impact.
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Reading is hugely important for our vocabulary, our writing skills, and our ability to access and enjoy the wider curriculum. Where possible, you should be reading each night. This year, we will be monitoring reading closely and encouraging everyone to read at least three times a week at home.
To celebrate effort and progress, we will also be announcing a Reader of the Week in Class 9.
Miss Broadhurst is currently re-reading the Harry Potter books after being re-inspired on last year’s London residential and our amazing trip to the Harry Potter Studios. The magical world, unforgettable characters, and sense of adventure make it such an exciting series to return to again and again.
Take a look at some of the recommended books on this reading list, and make sure you let us know if you find anything good!
Year 5 Recommended Reads
More information about these books can be found here:
Year 6 Recommended Reads
More information about these books can be found here:
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It's really important to practise your spellings and try to earn your spelling badges. Sometimes it is hard to know how to 'practise', so here are some ideas that you could try out!
Handwriting
Handwriting is really important for making us proud of our work and helping to remember spelling. Here is the handwriting policy in case you would like to do any practise at home.
