Year 3/4 Topic Notes - Autumn 2008
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The topic this term in years 3 and 4 is 'Rocks and Rivers', which focuses on Science and Geography.
We began the topic by asking the children to being in a rock or stone of their choice for the basis of their initial work.
On 22nd and 25th September, we shall be visiting Daws Hall Field Study Centre. During our visit we will be introduced to the different types of rock, test for differences in rocks, including those found on the site e.g. hardness, lustre and permeability. Use a compass and map to follow a trail around the site, finding out about different landukse. The children will carry out an infiltration investigation relating soil type with drainage. They will use soil sieves to see that soil contains particles of different sizes and test soils at different sites, including PH - to simplify the understanding that soils have different properties.
Following the new Literacy Strategy, the children will be involved in class, group and individual reading activities using a variety of texts, including 'Stig of the Dump'. The children will have regular handwriting practice, as well as opportunities to develop their factual and creative writing.
Maths this term will also follow the new strategy and will be taught in unit blocks which cover all aspects of number, shape, space and measures, data handling and using and applying.
In ICT, the children will be introudced to spreadsheets and use a problem solving program based on 'Stig of the Dump'. The children will also use Publisher to word process a newspaper article about the visit to Daws Hall.
We are fortunate to again have coaching by Football in the Community to develop skills - a very popular activity. We will also be covering aspects of dance and gymnastics. Class CC will be swimming this term.
Please can we remind you that the children will need indoor and outdoor kit this term.
In Design and Technology and Art, we will be developing observational drawing and the use of different mediums. We will be exploring modelling techniques, including a bridge challenge.
In RE, the children will be learning about the Christian festivals of Harvest, Advent and Christmas.
As part of PSHE, the children will study units on 'New Beginnings' and 'Going for Goals'.
Homework for the term is set out in a booklet which the children should keep at thome. Literacy / topic homework is set on a Monday, to be completed and handed in by Friday. Maths homework is set on a Friday to be completed and handed in the following Monday.