Beech Class Learning

English

This term in English, we will be developing the children’s reading and writing through a range of exciting and engaging texts. We will start by writing a persuasive letter about why we should have a bug hotel, helping children learn how to share their ideas and opinions clearly.

We will also be reading The Bee Book, which will inspire us to write non-chronological reports all about honey bees. This will help children organise their ideas and learn interesting facts.

Later in the term, we will read And Tango Makes Three and write diary entries from the point of view of a zoo keeper, encouraging children to think about feelings and experiences. We will then enjoy the adventure story Indigo Wilde, using it as inspiration to create our own fun and imaginative characters.

Throughout the term, we will continue to practise spelling, punctuation and grammar within all of our writing.

Maths

This term in mathematics, we will continue to follow the White Rose programme, helping children build confidence and understanding through practical and engaging activities.

We will begin by learning to tell the time, focusing on o’clock and half past, and for some children, quarter past and quarter to. We will then explore length and height, where children will measure, compare and describe different objects using everyday language and standard units.

Also this term, we will learn about money, recognising coins and notes and practising simple addition and subtraction in real-life contexts. We will also explore mass and capacity, giving children opportunities to weigh and measure using hands-on resources. We will continue to develop problem-solving skills and encourage children to explain their thinking using mathematical language across each topic.

 

Science

This term in science, our learning will focus on plants and ocean life. We will begin by exploring what seeds need to grow, looking at seeds and bulbs and how they change during germination. Children will investigate how light affects plant growth and learn about the life cycle of a plant. We will also learn how to care for plants and understand what they need to stay healthy.

As the term progresses, we will move on to learning about the ocean. Children will explore rockpool habitats and learn about the life cycles of ocean animals. We will also discuss ocean litter and its impact on marine life, as well as simple ocean food chains. To finish, children will take on the role of a marine biologist, exploring and learning about life under the sea.

Across all of our lessons, children will take part in practical activities and investigations to help develop their curiosity and understanding of the world around them.

Foundation Subjects

We will be exploring a range of exciting topics across our foundation subjects this half term.

History
This term in history, children will explore holidays in the past. They will compare seaside holidays from the early 1900s with holidays today, thinking about how and why things have changed over time.

Geography
In geography, we will be learning about the coast. Children will explore the seas and oceans around the UK, learn what the coast is like, and develop their fieldwork skills by observing and discussing our local area.

Art
In art, children will develop their creativity through sculpture and craft. They will explore 3D paper play, create models, and experiment with weaving techniques to produce their own woven artwork.

Design and Technology
In DT, children will be working with textiles to design and make their own pouch. They will practise sewing skills such as threading, tying knots and using a running stitch, before decorating and evaluating their final product.

Music
This term in music, children will explore pitch, tempo and dynamics through fun themes such as superheroes and under the sea. They will develop their listening skills, create simple musical patterns and take part in performances.

Physical Education
In PE, children will take part in invasion games and athletics. They will develop skills such as teamwork, coordination, control and movement, as well as preparing for sports week.

Religious Education
In RE, children will explore what makes places special or sacred. They will learn about different places of worship and consider why they are important to people of different faiths.

PSHE
In PSHE, children will learn about staying safe and understanding changes as they grow. This includes road safety, how to get help in an emergency, personal boundaries and preparing for transition into the next year group.

Computing
In computing, children will explore algorithms and debugging through fun, practical activities. They will also learn how to stay safe online and understand how to use technology responsibly.

Please see our Medium Term Plan for more details about these exciting units of work.