We hope you have had a fantastic Easter break and are looking forward to a new term of learning!

 

Our new class book is called The Titanic Detective Agency by Lindsay Littleson

 

Bertha Watt, tree-climber and would-be polar explorer, is excited to be on RMS Titanic’s maiden voyage, as she leaves Aberdeen behind for the glamour of a new life in America. But Bertha quickly realises that some passengers are behaving strangely, and she determines to unravel their secrets. With new friend, Madge, Bertha sets up her own detective agency to try and solve the mysteries onboard, but they have no idea that disaster is looming for Titanic.

We will set sail on the legendary RMS Titanic and put on our detective hats, and help Bertha solve some curious mysteries. This captivating book will allow us to create thoughtful, balanced arguments, persuasive texts and insightful letters.

In maths, we will be building our knowledge of measurement by looking at area and perimeter before exploring shape and statistics. Our Year 4s have their Multiplication Tables Check this year so we will also be practicing our times tables – make sure you’re also practicing at home on Times Tables Rockstars!

Our science topic for our Year 4s is classification and changing habitats, where we will look at how scientists classify plants and animals and how their habitats are changing. Our Year 5s will be completing lots of hands-on investigations in their topic ‘Unbalanced Forces’, where we will look at gravity, friction, water resistance and air resistance.

In history, our Year 4s will be exploring Doncaster’s local history by looking at coal mining whilst our Year 5s get stuck into the gruesome world of crime and punishment! In geography, Year 4 will be looking at the geography of the UK and Year 5 will be exploring and reading different types of maps.

In PE, we will be heading outside for some tennis and cricket. Year 5 will also attend weekly swimming lessons on a Friday. Our PE day will continue to be a Wednesday – please make sure you come to school in weather-appropriate outdoor kit on this day.

*Please note – the confirmed dates for the Year 4 Multiplication Tables Check are Monday 1^st June – Friday 12^th June. Children will be tested over this two-week period*

How can I help my child at home?

Make sure you read with your child at least 5 times per week.

Help your child to complete their weekly spelling and handwriting homework to develop key skills

Ensure your child completes 20 minutes of Times Tables Rockstars each week to develop fluency and accuracy. Our Year 4s will complete their Multiplication Tables Check this year, so please make sure you practice as much as possible.

 

Please make sure you complete your written and timestable homework weekly, five reads every week, arrive in the correct PE kit and have an attendance of 96% or above to be ‘In It To Win It’!

We are looking forward to a fantastic start to the year together in 4/5M, and we hope to continue to:

   'Be the Best we can Be'!