English – Spring 1 – The Selfish Giant

This term, we will be exploring The Selfish Giant by Oscar Wilde. Set in the late 19th century, the story reflects Victorian attitudes to childhood, kindness and morality. Through rich language and symbolism, it shows how selfishness can isolate individuals, while compassion and generosity can bring change and renewal.

Our main piece of writing will focus on retelling and extending moments from the story, using a more formal narrative voice and carefully chosen language to match the period and moral tone of the text.

Targets

• Distinguish between the language of speech and writing

• Recognise vocabulary and structures for formal speech and writing, including subjunctive forms

• Use passive verbs to control emphasis and create a formal tone

• Use semi-colons to mark boundaries between independent clauses

We will also use images and discussion to explore Victorian settings and values, helping us to write with clarity, formality and an understanding of the time in which the story was written.

Spelling - Spr 1 - Spellings will be issued weekly, based on patterns the children have learned on the Monday. These need to be practised throughout the week.

There are also additonal spelling patterns I would like the children to revise if possible, these are found here:
https://featherstonewood.herts.sch.uk/files/files/Year-6-Words-SATs.pdf

Maths – Spring 1 – Fractions, Ratio & Algebra

This term, our focus will be on developing secure understanding and confidence in fractions, ratio and algebra. Pupils will learn to apply these concepts accurately and explain their reasoning clearly, building strong foundations for more advanced mathematical thinking as they prepare for secondary school. Targeted arithmetic and fluency work will continue alongside lessons to close gaps through interventions.

Fractions
We will build fluency in multiplying fractions by integers and by other fractions, dividing fractions by integers, and solving mixed fraction problems. Pupils will also find fractions of amounts and work backwards to find the whole, applying these skills to a range of problem-solving contexts.

Ratio
Pupils will learn to use ratio language and symbols, link ratio to fractions, and explore scale drawings and scale factors. They will apply this understanding to similar shapes and solve ratio and proportion problems, including real-life examples such as recipes.

Algebra
We will develop algebraic thinking through the use of 1- and 2-step function machines, forming expressions and equations, substitution, and working with formulae. Pupils will solve 1- and 2-step equations, find pairs of values, and tackle problems involving two unknowns, developing logical reasoning and accuracy.

Regular practice will support fluency and ensure pupils can confidently apply these skills across a range of mathematical problems.

Other topics - Spr 1

History - Our focus will be The Victorian Era

• We will place the Victorians on a timeline and explore what life was like for children during this period, learning how rich and poor children experienced very different childhoods.

• We will investigate the lives of poor Victorian children, including the jobs they were forced to do, how families were treated in workhouses, and how reformers such as Dr Barnardo worked to improve the lives of vulnerable children.

• We will research and write a biography of Queen Victoria and demonstrate our understanding of Victorian childhood by writing a diary entry from the perspective of a child living in a workhouse.

Computing - Data & Information

• creating and formatting spreadsheets, entering and organising data, using simple formulas and functions, sorting and filtering information, creating charts and graphs, and using spreadsheets to analyse data and answer questions.

PE - Dance

• exploring dynamics, linking actions into sequences, using movement to portray a story, developing control, timing, coordination, expression, and performance skills.

RE – Signs and Sacraments

• Can I explain what scripture teaches, recognising both its literal meaning and its deeper spiritual message?

• Can I use religious and theological vocabulary to explain how Jesus’ miracles reveal that he is truly God and truly human?

• Can I link one of Jesus’ “I am” statements to Christian beliefs about who Jesus is?

• Can I name the seven sacraments and explain the purpose of each in the life of the Catholic Church?

• Can I explain the roles of the deacon, priest and bishop in celebrating the sacraments?

• Can I describe how our local parish celebrates the sacraments and explain why some are celebrated more often than others?

Science – Living Things and Their Habitats

• How can we classify living organisms into groups using shared characteristics, and how does the Linnean system help scientists do this accurately?

• What are the key features of the main kingdoms of life, and how are living things organised within these kingdoms?

• How can scientific investigations, such as studying mould growth on bread and mushroom spore dispersal, help us understand how living things grow, reproduce, and survive in their habitats?