Area, Legends and North America

It’s been a busy first week back in Year 4!

Maths

In maths we have been learning all about area: what area is; how to find the area by counting squares or multiplying; making shapes; and comparing areas. The children have shown a good understanding and have some homework linked to this.

When working out the area of squares and rectangles, we found it was very useful to know our times tables facts! In June, all Year 4 children will complete a statutory multiplication tables check. This is an on-screen test consisting of 25 times table questions. It aims to ensure that children have a good grasp of their times tables facts to support them with their learning in Year 5 and 6, and to help schools identify children who need more support with learning their times tables. We are encouraging children to use the ‘soundcheck’ area of TT Rockstars to practise, as this is the most similar format to the multiplication tables check. We are also taking part in a TT Rockstars competition (called England Rocks) next week so now is a good time to get practising!

English

In English, we have begun looking at legends, focusing on the legends of King Arthur and Robin Hood. We have thought about the characters and the plots, using story mountains to help us identify the structure of each legend. Soon, we will start to plan and write our own legends!

In guided reading, we are connecting our work in English with our new geography topic, by reading a North American legend: The Rainbow Crow. The children have made some great predictions and observations just based on the first couple of pages.

Geography

In geography this week, we used atlases to identify the countries of North America. We will be learning more about the physical and human geography of North America over the next few weeks.

Music

This half term in music, all children in Year 4 will be learning boomwhacking with Ms Howells. We will also be learning the songs for the production at the end of term.

P.E

As well as swimming, 4L will be developing their football skills this half term, while 4SN complete a dance unit.

Other reminders

Thank you to all the parents and carers who were able to make our parents’ evenings this week. It was lovely to speak with you about your child’s progress.

We have spoken to all the children about the importance of having their reading records signed 5 times a week. Please could you support your child with this, as our percentages so far this year have been disappointingly low.

Homework this week is a maths task on area, and a spelling sheet focusing on Y3/4 spelling words. Homework should be returned by Wednesday.

Good luck to those children taking part in the cross country event on Saturday!

Hope you all have a lovely weekend.

Mrs Sykes, Mrs Newsome and Miss Levett