Dear Parents
I hope you all had a lovely summer. I’m looking forward to teaching this class as firstly, Mrs. Lewis has given them a glowing reference and secondly, it is of course my first time in Year 6. Please click on link below for a summary of the areas we will be covering this term in each subject, including details of some of the activities we will undertake.
Y6 Curriculum Overview, Autumn Term
This year is a busy, challenging yet very exciting year. We are looking to undertake two school trips within the first term, one of which is designed to promote team work, the other to enhance our History curriculum:
- 8th October – Cuffley Camp, approximate cost £20.00
- 14th November – Imperial War Museum Duxford, approximate cost £15.00
You will receive separate letters with further details of these visits shortly.
Homework will continue in much the same way as in Year 5. Learning Logs will be given out on a Friday and be due in the following Wednesday. Children will usually be able to choose between three options, but occasionally everyone will be required to complete the same task. It is expected that the children will spend 45 minutes to an hour on their learning logs. They will also receive an additional piece of Maths homework that is compulsory for all pupils.
The children will receive the opportunity to choose a new library book each week (a parent volunteer to administer this would be much appreciated). Their homework includes at least one hour of reading every week. I understand the majority of the children prefer to read independently at this stage, but it would be very helpful if you could find a few minutes to listen to them read aloud as well. The important thing is to ask your child questions about what they have read to check their understanding, as this is what they find most difficult even if they appear to be reading fluently. It is the decision of you and your child which books they choose to read – for me, the most important thing is that they enjoy it. Please record the time spent reading each week in their homework planner so I can keep track of this and reward those that make an extra effort.
Spellings will take place in short, sharp sessions over the course of the week, culminating in a written test on Friday mornings. Children generate their own words, so please feel free to extend the initial vocabulary chosen at the start of the week. As long as the same rule is met, spellings can be as challenging as possible! It is important that the children are secure in their times tables and we will be reviewing these weekly. If you know that your child struggles with a particular table, please continue to practise with them.
I am a firm believer that this year is an important transition between Primary and Secondary schools and that the children must learn to take greater responsibility for their possessions. I have therefore encouraged them to bring any pens / stationary equipment etc. that they will keep in their personal tray.
Overview of homework for the Autumn Term:
- Learning Log (45 minutes – 1 hour)
- Maths homework
- Spellings
- Times tables
- 1 hour of reading
This half term, P.E will take place on Friday and Tuesday afternoons each week, so please ensure your child brings in suitable kit on these days. However, it is advisable to retain P.E. kits in school at all times in case of non-timetabled sessions. Trainers will also be required, as we will go outside if the weather permits. Swimming will take place in the summer term.
I look forward to seeing you all in the near future. If you have any questions, please feel free to come in and see me either before or after school; you are always welcome. Thank you for all your support.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Grant Jones