I hope you have had a lovely Easter Break! 

I am looking forward to doing some creative writing with our class book Black Powder by Ally Sherrick. This story is a suspense-driven read that introduces the children to Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot.  Over the coming weeks, children will write a set of instructions on how to get out of the Tower of London, write an explanation text and a newspaper article based on the historic events that took place on the 5th November 1605. I can’t wait to see the unique perspectives and creativity that will emerge as we journey through this story together! 

                                                                

'England, 1605: 12-year-old Tom must save his father from hanging. He falls in with a mysterious stranger – the Falcon – who promises to help him in exchange for his service. But on the long journey to London, Tom discovers the Falcon's true mission – and a plot to blow up Parliament with barrels of black powder.'

During this term, we will also be taking our trip to the Peak District to visit a mine and climb Mam Tor. Very exciting!

In addition, we will be learning the rest of our maths curriculum to prepare the children for their next year group.

Supporting your child’s learning at home can make a huge difference, and there are some simple routines that really help them grow in confidence and skills. 

One of the most important things you can do is read with your child at least five times a week. Sharing a book together is a lovely way to spend time, and it helps develop vocabulary, fluency and a love of reading. Even just a few minutes each day makes a big impact. 

Please also make sure your child completes their written spelling homework and spends at least 20 minutes on Times Tables Rockstars each week. These small, regular sessions help build strong foundations in spelling and number fluency. 

For Year 4 children, extra times tables practice is especially important as they prepare for their Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) this year. The best—and most fun—way to practise is by using Times Tables Rock Stars on a tablet. Short, frequent bursts of practice are the most effective. 

 

    *Remember* 

To complete your homework, read five times every week, arrive in the correct PE Kit and have an attendance of 96% or above to be our ‘In It To Win It’!