Welcome back to the Spring Term! 

Our Topic for this term is 'Movers and Shakers'.

Empowering English

In English, we will be continuing to use the Write Stuff approach developed by Jane Considine to improve our writing. This term we will be focusing on fiction. Our first narrative unit is based upon the book 'The Crows Tail' by Naomi Howarth. The book is set in the depths of winter, where the animals are freezing and famished. A brave crow sets off on a dangerous journey to the sun to beg for warmth. Once we have finished studying the book, we will create our own story, following the themes that we have explored.

We will also be focusing on reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation and grammar, and using the joint that we have learnt in our independent writing.

Our English Targets for the term will be:

• I can use a range of punctuation within my writing
• I can use powerful adjectives within my writing
• I can begin to use apostrophe's for omission and possession
• I can use the joins I know in my independent writing

Marvellous Maths

In Maths, we will be continuing to focus on place value to 100.  We will be thinking about how we can use our knowledge of place value to add and subtract numbers and to help us to problem solve. We will be thinking about how we can show our thinking and understanding using a range of written methods.

Our Maths Targets for the term will be:

• I can identify tens and ones in a 2-digit number 
• I can add a three 1-digit numbers
• I can add and subtract two 2-digit numbers.
• I can multiply and divide using multiplication facts from the 2, 5 and 10 times table.

Sensational Science 

In Science this term, we will be identifying a range of materials and their uses, investigating their properties and testing their suitability. We will also explore how materials can be changed by squashing, bending, twisting and stretching.

Hair-Raising History

This term, we will be learning about influential people who have helped to create change to the world. We will be focusing on how Mary Seacole and Florence Nightingale influenced the health care system that we have today and identify how they have helped us to have better lives. Using a range of sources, we will investigate what they did in early and later life.

Globe-Trotting Geography

In Geography, we will be using simple fieldwork skills to study the immediate environment. We will study aerial images and other models to create our own simple plans and maps, using symbols. we will also be using a map to plan a various routes. We will also be thinking about our locality, describing what we like and dislike, and using a range of sources and evidence, we will investigate what is special about where we live.

Pacey PE

Year 2 will have P.E on Tuesday and we ask that children wear their P.E kit to school for the day (white P.E t-shirt, black or navy shorts / jogging bottoms, trainers and their school jumper).  PE will be outside where possible, so please wear warm clothes. 

Showbie

Showbie is a program which allows children to upload and share their work.  Everyone will be given a Showbie username and password and it is available on iPads, tablets and computers.  We will be using this regularly within lessons and for homework each week.

Showbie has proven to be a valuable communication tool during the enforced school closure in order for children, parents/carers and teachers to keep in touch.  The Showbie App includes a range of features which have been utilisied by all:

• Messaging communication
• Sharing / Uploading work
• Instant feedback
• Voice Notes
• Video Uploads

I will continue to set and mark homework via the Showbie App on a weekly basis.  Extra (optional) learning activities will be provided where appropriate in order to consolidate learning in school.  Showbie will be used as the new home-school link for reading.  Every child will have a reading folder in their assignments where all reading and comments can be recorded on a nightly basis.

There will also be a general communication folder where any important messages can be shared with class teachers.  Class teachers will endeavour to respond to these messages as soon as possible.  It is important to remember that children will also be able to see this, so anything of a sensitive nature should be dealt with via telephone or email.

Showbie will be used for you to record any learning that you complete at home, including:

• reading
• spelling practise
• Education City
• Oxford Owl eBooks

I will check Showbie every day to see what you have been doing.  Our aim is to be paperless, therefore most written communication will be via Showbie or the school email system.  

Helpful Homework

Homework is set on a Thursday and should be submitted by Monday.  Homework will be linked to the work that we are covering in class.  Remember homework will be set and uploaded to Showbie.  Paper copies can also be provided if required.  

Showbie will be used for you to record any learning that you complete at home, including:

• reading
• spelling practise
• Education City
• Numbots

Talk Homework will help you to prepare for your Big Write each week.  This can be found on Showbie too.  Please spend 5-10 minutes chatting with a family member at home in order to feel more confident about your written task the following day.

IMPORTANT DATES

Tuesday, 5th January - Return to School

Tuesday, 9th February - Safer Internet Day

Monday 15th February to Friday 19th February - Half term

Wednesday 31st March - End of Term 

For photographs of class and school activities, please see below or click on ‘CHILDREN’ and then ‘GALLERY’ or 'WALFORD TV'.  Also, remember to keep checking Twitter: @WalfordSchool for regular updates too.

All letters and class reminders will be sent via emails.  Please ensure that the school office have your preferred email address.  Let us know if you think you are not receiving any updates.

My door is always open and I am happy to chat with parents about our topics and any work that we are covering in class. Please don’t hesitate to come and find me if you wish to discuss anything!

Many thanks!

Miss Hale