Dear Innovator Class Parents and Carers,

 Welcome to the summer term, a significant period for Year 6 students. While there is a lot of work to be done, it is an exciting term as they approach the end of their primary education. As always, please feel free to email me or catch me at the end of the school day with any questions you have this term.

 Our mornings are usually focused on core subjects. However, our timetable can vary day-to-day. Below I have outlined what our focus will be for each subject this term.

 In our upcoming maths units, we will explore various aspects of measurement and geometry. Key topics include calculating perimeter, area, and volume, alongside problem-solving exercises related to these concepts. We will also delve into the properties of shapes, focusing on angles within triangles and quadrilaterals, as well as classifications of polygons. Additionally, we will cover the structure of circles and practice drawing shapes accurately, culminating in the exploration of nets for 3D shapes.

In writing, will focus on explanation texts, where we will learn to use colons and semi-colons effectively, maintain present tense, and employ linking words for clarity. Additionally, we will practice a formal, impersonal style, establish cause-and-effect links, and utilise the passive voice, modal verbs, relative pronouns, and causal conjunctions. In our poetry segment, we will identify key details, read aloud with appropriate intonation, and experiment with various language techniques, including metaphors, similes, and alliteration.

 In reading lessons, we will explore "Boy in the Tower" by Polly Ho-Yen. Key focuses include comprehension skills such as explaining, inferring, and retrieving information, as well as engaging in critical thinking through predictions and textual analysis. We will examine character emotions, relationships, and significant plot developments, supported by relevant textual evidence.

 In our science lessons, we will continue to explore evolution and inheritance, before moving onto an exploration of the intricacies of the human body, specifically focusing on the circulatory system. We will begin with an elicitation phase, where they will assess their prior knowledge through a pre-unit assessment. This will serve as a foundation for their understanding as they delve into the main parts of the human circulatory system. Through recall and diagram labelling, they will identify and name key components. Subsequently, they will investigate the functions of the heart, blood vessels, and blood, gaining insight into how these elements collaborate within the circulatory system to sustain life and maintain bodily functions.

 In PE, we will focus on Athletics and Volleyball skills. In Athletics, we will improve sprinting techniques, identify suitable paces, enhance triple jump power and technique, and develop throwing for distance with accuracy. In Volleyball, we will master the fast catch volley, set shot, and dig, learning their strategic applications. These activities aim to foster teamwork while developing our athletic abilities.

 In Spanish lessons, pupils will explore the theme of hábitats. They will learn essential vocabulary related to the needs of plants and animals, decode complex texts, and engage with high-frequency verbs such as ‘to grow’ and ‘to live’. The unit culminates in presentations that consolidate knowledge of various plants and animals in their respective habitats.

In music lessons, we will explore various musical styles through the lens of "Happy" by Pharrell Williams. Students will analyse the song alongside others like "Top Of The World," "Don’t Worry Be Happy," and "Walking On Sunshine," engaging in warm-up games, vocal exercises, and instrumental play. Each lesson will culminate in a performance of "Happy," integrating learned skills creatively.

In computing, we will explore the World Wide Web and the Internet, learning to distinguish between the two and providing examples. We will investigate our school network, including LAN and WAN types, while understanding how we access the Internet. Students will research the history of the Internet and its future, focusing on Tim Berners-Lee. Additionally, we will introduce the 2DIY platform, where students will create picture-based quizzes and utilise 2Quiz to develop questions tailored to specific audiences.

 In our geography lessons will explore the key question: What are the similarities and differences between a region of South America and a region of the UK? We will identify and compare the human and physical features of both areas, focusing on land use, economic activity, and environmental issues, particularly in relation to the rainforest. Additionally, we will examine the distribution of natural resources and consider various perspectives on these geographical challenges.

In design technology, students will craft leavers waistcoats, exploring their purpose and diverse styles. They'll sketch detailed templates, annotating materials and sewing plans. Using these templates, they'll cut fabric panels, sew them together, and embellish with applique or decorative stitching. Throughout, they'll consider personalisation with images or symbols. Finally, students will evaluate their creations against design criteria, incorporating peer feedback for refinement. This dynamic process fosters creative expression while honing practical skills in garment construction and design assessment.

In religion and world views lessons, students will delve into the concept of happiness as the goal of life from a Humanist perspective. They will engage with this idea, enquiring into its significance and relevance for Humanists. Through exploration of Humanist beliefs in texts or quotations, students will gain deeper insights into the philosophical foundations underlying this principle. Additionally, they will explore how ideas about happiness manifest in Humanist life ceremonies, further explaining the role of happiness in shaping Humanist values and practices. This multifaceted exploration encourages critical thinking and fosters an understanding of diverse perspectives on the pursuit of happiness in human life.

 In PSHE lessons, students embark on a journey of self-discovery and well-being enhancement. Through "This will be your life!" activities, they identify aspirational goals and develop action plans to achieve them. They also present researched information on health issues, proposing recommendations for improvement. By exploring risk factors and outcomes in "What's the risk?" sessions, students learn to assess and mitigate risks, including emotional ones. Basic first aid, such as Sepsis Awareness, equips them with life-saving skills, including making efficient emergency calls. Finally, through the "Five Ways to Wellbeing" project, students understand and implement strategies for leading healthy, fulfilling lives. This holistic approach fosters personal growth and empowers students to thrive in various aspects of life.

 I look forward to another productive term.

Kind regards,

Mr Grech.

                   Liddington trip and SATs PowerPoint for parents/carers