Welcome to Cuckoos 

Class Teacher - Mrs Hine-Smith

LSP - Mrs Maddock

email:     class.cuckoos@burnttree.sandwell.sch.uk

Our learning

Autumn term

Maths

In Maths this term, we will be learning about :

• Place value - We will be using a range of manipulatives to demonstrate our knowledge of tens and ones. We will compare, order and estimate using numbers up to 100. We will use a range of vocabulary such as: tens, ones, most, least, greater than, less than and fewer than.

• Addition and subtraction - We will be using a range of manipulatives to demonstrate our knowledge of adding and subtracting using one digit and two digit numbers. We will use a range of vocabulary such as: addend, sum, total, minuend, subtrahend and difference.
• Shape - We will consolidate our knowledge of 2D and 3D shape names. We will also learn about the properties of 2D and 3D shapes. We will use a range of vocabulary such as: sides, vertices, faces, edges, symmetry and patterns.

Children in Year 2 take part in arithmetic lessons where they use their knowledge of number to solve problems.

We will also continue our 'Mastering Number' sessions 4 times a week where we will become fluent in basic number facts. We will become more confident using our Rekenrek to demonstrate this.

 

English

In English this term, we will study the 'Paddington Bear' stories by Michael Bond. We will create a set of instructions about how to make a marmalade sandwich, Paddington's favourite snack! Following this, we will create a character description using a range of sentence types, conjunctions and punctuation.

We will also be reading the story 'One Snowy Night' by Nick Butterworth. We will create a setting description based on Percy's snowy Winter Park, using a range of sentence types, conjunctions and punctuation.

 

Reading/Phonics

Children who have not yet completed the RWI phonics programme will continue in a phonics group.  When they have completed the phonics programme, they will join a guided reading group with a focus on a selection of texts over the year.  We have a range of texts that children will be working through and will hopefully enjoy!

The children will bring a reading book home every week or a phonics book which are matched to their current level. They will also have a reading for pleasure book of their choice, which allows them to practise further.  Please support us by listening to your child read their book for 10 minutes each day. 

All children will be heard reading their book in school with a teacher at least once a week in addition to phonics and guided reading sessions, so please make sure that their book bag is in school every day.

Please write in their reading record book when you have heard them read.

Science

In Science this term, we will be learning about 'materials'.

We will be learning about the properties of materials and exploring their suitability. We will use a range of vocabulary such as: transparent, flexible, rigid, hard, smooth, soft, waterproof, tough, strong, squash, stretch, bend and twist.

We will use a range of scientific skills including: ask simple questions, observe closely using simple equipment, perform simple tests, identify and classify, use observations and ideas to suggest answers to questions and gather and record data to help answer questions.

 

History

In History this term, our unit is called 'How was school different in the past?'

We will find out about the history of Burnt Tree Primary School and where it used to be in the local area. We will find out why it was rebuilt and use a range of different sources of evidence including photographs, maps, registers, school diaries and newspaper articles. We are hoping to interview someone who used to attend Burnt Tree Primary school. If you are able to help us with this part of our history topic, please let us know.

We will be opening our school history museum later in the year to showcase our work. We hope to see you there!

 

 

Geography

In Geography this term, our unit is called 'Would you prefer to live in a hot or a cold place?'

We will introduce the children to the basic concept of climate zones. We will look at features of the North and South Poles and a contrasting hot country. We will compare weather and features in the local area, learn the four compass points and learn the names and locations of the continents of our world.

 

Art

In Art this term, we will be learning a range of drawing skills in order to tell our own story. We will use charcoal to investigate different drawing techniques and oil pastels to investigate texture. We will create a character with expression and we will create a scene for our story.

We will also be using paint and mixed media to investigate colour mixing and using this knowledge to create a collage.

 

DT

In DT this term, we will be investigating different structures. In particular, we will look at the structure of a chair. We will explore different 3D shapes to see which have the strongest structures. We will use this knowledge to create our own chair for baby bear to sit on.

 

Music

The children will use a range of musical instruments to represent different animals, thinking about how the sounds and rhythms they create can match the movements and characteristics of each animal. They will listen carefully and copy simple rhythms, developing their ability to keep a steady beat. The children will also take part in call-and-response activities, where they listen to a rhythm played by the teacher and then repeat it using their instruments. They will have opportunities to create their own simple animal rhythms and perform them for others.

 

PE

In PE this term, the children will be developing their skills in attack, defend and shoot; send and return; and gymnastics. Through a variety of fun games and activities, they will work on improving their coordination, ball control, movement and teamwork. In gymnastics, the children will develop their flexibility, balance, strength and body control, learning to move with increasing confidence and precision.

 

Computing

This term, the children will develop their keyboard and typing skills, learning to identify and use the main keys, including the spacebar and Shift key. They will practise typing words and sentences, making simple changes to text and creating documents using text and images. They will also learn how to use simple keyboard shortcuts, including copy and paste, and explore different ways to change the appearance of their work.

Alongside these skills, the children will learn about online safety, including how to stay safe when using computers and the internet and how to make sensible and responsible choices online

 

 

RE

In RE this term, we will be learning about Holy Books and exploring examples from a range of different religions. The children will learn about why Holy Books are important to people and how they are used in religious life. They will explore how different faiths care for, handle and treat their Holy Books with respect, developing an understanding of the importance of religious beliefs and traditions. Through stories, discussions and activities, the children will have opportunities to compare different Holy Books and recognise both similarities and differences between religions.

 

PSHE

In PSHE, the children will be learning ‘My Healthy Self: How can we look after our bodies?’ They will explore how everyday choices can help us stay healthy and happy, including the importance of exercise, sleep, healthy food and drinks. The children will learn how these choices affect our bodies and discover simple ways to look after themselves and their wellbeing.