YEAR 4 - Blenheim and Buckingham
Welcome to Year 4!
We are thrilled to welcome you to Year 4! This year, our team of dedicated adults includes Mrs Wilby, Mrs Howis, and Miss Roberts who will be the class teachers and our Associate Professionals Mrs Clarricoates, and Mrs Hodgkinson. We have an exciting year ahead, filled with fantastic learning opportunities that we can’t wait to explore together. Stay tuned for a year full of fun, discovery, and growth as we embark on this learning journey!
What We're Learning This Half-Term
Mathematics:
In Autumn 1, Year 4 will dive into an engaging maths curriculum. We will start with place value, focusing on understanding the value of digits in four-digit numbers and comparing and ordering these numbers. Children will also explore addition and subtraction, applying these operations to both mental and written methods. We'll build on our knowledge with problem-solving activities that reinforce these concepts, ensuring a solid foundation in key mathematical skills. This term aims to enhance number sense and calculation strategies through interactive and practical learning experiences.
In Year 4, we will be preparing for the national multiplication check, which assesses children’s recall of times tables up to 12x12. This check is designed to gauge students' fluency in multiplication facts, an essential skill for their mathematical development. Throughout the year, we will engage in various activities and practice sessions to build confidence and ensure quick and accurate recall of multiplication facts. Our focus will be on interactive games, timed quizzes, and practical exercises to help students master their times tables and perform well in the check.
English:
This term in English, Year 4 will be reading the book Who Let the Gods Out? and using it as inspiration to develop our writing skills. We will work on creating a persuasive advert, writing a first-person diary entry, and creating our own narrative. Through these activities, we will learn to express our ideas creatively, use persuasive language effectively, and write from different perspectives.
Science:
In Year 4 Science this term, we will be exploring the fascinating topics of teeth and digestion. Children will learn about the different types of teeth and their functions, including incisors, canines, and molars, and how they work together to break down food. We'll dive into the digestive system, examining how food travels through the body and how it is processed to provide essential nutrients. We will gain a deeper understanding of how our bodies use teeth and the digestive system to maintain health and energy.
Curriculum Focus:
History:
This term in Year 4 History, we will embark on an exciting journey to explore the fascinating world of Ancient Greece. Children will learn about the rich culture, daily life, and significant achievements of this ancient civilization. We'll delve into Greek mythology, uncovering tales of gods and heroes, and examine the legacy of Greek contributions to art, architecture, and democracy. Throughout this learning journey children will gain a deeper understanding of how Ancient Greece has influenced the modern world and appreciate the remarkable innovations of this historic era.
Geography:
In Year 4 Geography, we will embark on an exciting exploration of Europe. Children will learn about the diverse countries, cultures, and landscapes that make up this vibrant continent. We will examine key geographical features such as major rivers, mountain ranges, and capitals, and explore how different regions of Europe vary in climate and environment. We will explore maps for European countries, discovering famous landmarks, and understanding the cultural significance of various regions.
PE:
This half term, Year 4 will be focusing on developing their swimming and basketball skills as part of our Physical Education program. During swimming lessons, children will work on building confidence in the water, improving their stroke techniques, and enhancing overall water safety. In basketball, they will learn essential skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and teamwork through fun and engaging activities.
PSHE:
In our PSHE lesson, we’re learning about drugs and what makes them safe or unsafe. Drugs are substances that can change how our bodies or minds work. Some drugs, like medicine prescribed by a doctor, can be safe and help us feel better when we're sick. They are used properly and carefully to make sure they are safe. However, not all drugs are safe. Some drugs, like those that are misused or taken without a doctor’s advice, can be harmful. It’s important to only take medicine that a trusted adult or doctor gives us and to always follow their instructions. This helps us stay healthy and safe.
RE:
This term in Religious Education, Year 4 will be exploring Christian and Hindu beliefs as we delve into some of life’s big questions: What is God like? What matters most in life? What happens when we die? Through stories, discussions, and activities, students will learn about the Christian view of God as loving, all-powerful, and ever-present, and the Hindu understanding of God as one supreme being with many forms. We will also explore the values that matter most in each religion, such as love, kindness, and dharma (duty), and how these beliefs influence the way Christians and Hindus live their lives.
Art:
In Year 4 Art this term, we will delve into the exciting world of sculpture, with a special focus on the renowned artist Alexander Calder. Known for his innovative mobiles and static sculptures, Calder’s work will inspire our creative projects. We will learn about Calder’s unique use of form, balance, and movement in his sculptures. We’ll explore how he transformed simple materials into dynamic art pieces, and then apply these concepts to create our own sculptures. We will experiment with various materials and techniques to make our own Calder-inspired artworks, discovering the joy of three-dimensional creativity.
Homework:
For the upcoming term, we will have a half termly homework menu linked to our wider curriculum, offering a range of engaging tasks related to the areas we are studying. In addition to this, children are expected to:
- Daily Reading: Record all reading activities in their planners. Regular reading at home supports comprehension and fluency.
- TT Rockstars: Practice times tables daily using TT Rockstars to build multiplication skills and confidence.
- Times Table Practice: Reinforce multiplication facts through consistent practice to prepare for assessments and improve arithmetic skills.
These activities are designed to support learning and reinforce the concepts covered in class.
We're looking forward to a fantastic half-term filled with learning, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Let's make it a year to remember!