LKS2 Phase Leader- Mrs Pike 

2024 - 2025

Spring 2

This term, KS2 have been full of excitement as the children explored a variety of engaging topics. They began the term by celebrating World Book Day, dressing up as their favourite characters. Inspired by The Dot the children created beautiful artwork and took part in creative writing activities.
 

Number Day brought even more fun, with maths-themed outfits and a range of exciting mathematical activities. Science Week was a highlight, featuring a captivating workshop that left the children in awe. The experiments, demonstrated by our special visitor, sparked a genuine interest in science, and perhaps some of our young learners will one day pursue a career in the field!

The Curriculum Quest allowed parents and carers to witness the fantastic learning taking place at Greenwood. It was wonderful to see the children exploring different classrooms and confidently finding answers around the classrooms. We are truly grateful to everyone who attended and participated in this fantastic event.

Year 3

A huge well done to Sparrows and Robins for delivering two fantastic assemblies about the Romans! You spoke your lines so clearly, sang with great energy, and shared your knowledge with confidence. Your hard work and enthusiasm shone through, and we are incredibly proud of you all!

This term in Year 3, we have been exploring the fascinating topic of light. We began by asking, "What is light?" and discovering that light helps us see the world around us. The children investigated different sources of light, both natural and artificial, and carried out exciting experiments to find out which materials reflect light best. We also explored how mirrors reflect light, helping us understand how reflections work. As part of our learning, we discussed the benefits and dangers of the sun, emphasising the importance of protecting our skin and eyes. Finally, we explored how shadows are formed and observed how their size changes depending on the position of the light source. It’s been a bright and engaging topic that has sparked curiosity and excitement in the classroom!

In History, we have continued our exciting journey into the world of the Romans. We explored the question, how the Romans changed Britain, introducing roads, towns, and even aspects of language that still influence us today. The children were particularly fascinated by the story of Boudicca and her brave but fierce rebellion against the Romans, helping us understand why she remains an important historical figure. To bring history to life, we examined what life was like for a Roman soldier, uncovering the challenges they faced while protecting the empire. It’s been an engaging topic that has helped us step back in time and appreciate the lasting impact of the Romans!

Year 3 had an enriching trip to the Gurdwara to bring their learning about Sikhism to life. The children had the opportunity to explore the Gurdwara and gain a deeper understanding of Sikh beliefs and practices. They listened attentively to a talk from one of the community members, who kindly answered their thoughtful questions and shared insights about the Sikh faith. The visit also included a chance to see the langar (community kitchen), where volunteers were preparing food to serve to everyone. The highlight for many was tasting the delicious food, experiencing first-hand the Sikh values of kindness, equality, and service. It was a memorable and inspiring experience that helped deepen their understanding and respect for different cultures and religions.

We’re thrilled by the children’s progress this term and their increasing confidence and independence. A heartfelt thank you to all the parents and carers for their unwavering support. We hope you all enjoy a well-deserved Easter break, and we can’t wait to see what the children will achieve in Summer 1!

Spring 1

This term, the children worked incredibly hard and showed great enthusiasm in their learning, diving into new topics with energy and curiosity. They tackled each challenge with focus, eager to explore new things. Their engagement was truly inspiring, as they embraced new concepts with excitement, determination, and a real love for discovery, making remarkable progress along the way.

Year 3

Year 3 began their study of the Romans by exploring the expansion of the Roman Empire, with a special focus on its impact on Britain. They compared Roman life to that of the Stone Age, examining the significant changes in technology, architecture, and daily life. The children learnt about the everyday lives of Romans, from the grand villas of the wealthy to the simpler homes of the poor. They also delved into the world of Roman gods and goddesses, ranking them in order of importance and exploring how these deities influenced daily life. Finally, they investigated the power of the Roman army, understanding how its discipline, advanced training, and strategic prowess made it one of the most formidable forces in history, enabling the Romans to expand their empire and maintain control over vast territories.

The children explored volcanoes in Geography, learning about what they are and how they form. They discovered that volcanoes are openings in the Earth’s surface where molten rock, gases, and ash can escape. The children studied what happens during an eruption, such as the release of lava and ash. They also looked at the features of volcanoes, including the crater, vent, and lava flow, and learnt about the role of tectonic plates in volcanic activity. They discovered that volcanoes are often found near plate boundaries, where plates either collide or move apart. In discussing why people live near volcanoes, Year 3 found that some choose to live in these areas because of the fertile soil created by volcanic ash, which is ideal for farming, while others live there for economic reasons, such as tourism or the availability of natural resources.

Autumn 2

As we wrap up the first term, we are delighted to share how hard the children have been working in their new learning. Their enthusiasm and dedication have been truly commendable, making us incredibly proud. It has been a fantastic start, and we look forward to continuing this journey of learning together in the New Year.

Year 3

This term, Year 3 began with an exciting author study focusing on the incredible Anthony Browne. The children explored the themes in his books and uncovered his hidden clues, enhancing their understanding through VIPERS skills. They produced wonderful writing, including imaginative stories and heartfelt diary entries, showcasing their creativity and hard work.

In design technology, Year 3 designed and sewed their own pencil cases. Starting with research into different types and their purposes, they moved on to creating their designs, sewing them, and finally evaluating their products. The results are amazing, and we are sure you’ll agree when you see them!

Year 4

In Science, the children explored sound and vibrations. They investigated how sound travels by making string telephones from recyclable materials. Through hands-on experimentation, they discovered how sound changes over distance and through different materials, and how the length and thickness of the string affect pitch.

In design technology, Year 4 built on their Year 3 sewing skills to plan, design, and created money containers using various techniques. Once completed, they evaluated their products, and we couldn’t be more impressed with their efforts.

Autumn 1 

We've had an exciting and productive half term as the children have settled into their new classes with enthusiasm. They have embraced a variety of engaging learning experiences and demonstrated great energy and positivity throughout. 

Year 3

Year 3 have had an incredibly productive half term! In their topic lessons, they’ve been exploring the fascinating period of 'The Stone Age to the Iron Age,' and this theme has been integrated into their English and Reading lessons as well. The children have been thoroughly engaged, learning about the timeline, the uses of stones, cave paintings, and many other intriguing aspects of life during the Mesolithic Age. This has helped them develop a deep appreciation for the creativity and ingenuity of people from that time.

In English and Reading, they’ve been captivated by the story of ‘The Stone Age Boy,’ using skills like inference to enhance their understanding. The children have written detailed character and setting descriptions and crafted their own adventure stories inspired by the book, utilizing powerful verbs, adjectives, similes, prepositional phrases, and fronted adverbials. Their creativity and progress have been truly impressive!

Year 4

Year 4 have had an impressive start to the year, and it’s been wonderful to see their learning come to life. In English, they began by exploring the picture book 'Gregory Cool,' which served as inspiration for their creative writing. The children have made great progress in developing their understanding of setting and character, while also enhancing their skills in grammar, punctuation, paragraphs, spelling, and handwriting. They’ve learnt the key elements of descriptive writing and applied them confidently in their own work.

In their topic lessons, the children have been fully immersed in the fascinating world of Ancient Egypt. They explored topics such as gods and goddesses, society, the River Nile, hieroglyphics, pyramids, and mummification. Their studies have included the timeline of Ancient Egypt, daily life, the structure of society, the role of pharaohs, and the civilization's beliefs. They even practiced writing in hieroglyphics, learnt about the mummification process, and studied the significance of the Nile, both in the past and today. It has been an exciting and enriching journey of discovery for them!

Lower Key Stage 2 News 2023-24