This half-term we will be learning about Our Capital City. In this geography unit, we will locate the capital cities of the UK, learn all about life in London. We will use our imaginations to hop onboard the London Underground and travel into the heart of the city where we will encounter all sorts of famous landmarks. By the end of the unit, we will be able to compare London to Keyworth and talk about the key similarities and differences. 

We will apply our new knowledge of the famous London landmarks in our art lessons where we will learn how to use watercolours to paint a skyline as well as sketch a London landmark in the style of Stephen Wiltshire. 

What else will we be learning about this half-term?

Below, you'll find our Geography and Science Knowledge Organisers, which outline the key learning for this half-term. 

Our class texts this half-term are:

Daisy and the Trouble with London by Kes Gray 

Katie in London by James Mayhew 

Winnie-the-Pooh Meets the King by Jane Riordan 

Homework Expectations: 

• Reading: Please ensure your child is reading their phonics book at least 3 times a week at home and that their home-school reading books are signed each week. You’re also welcome to attend Reading Lair to complete this together! 
  Please continue to help your children consolidate the common exception words (red words) in their phonics books by practising these regularly. 

• DoodleMaths: Children should aim to stay in their Green Zone, which means completing approximately 40 minutes of practice each week. Personalised Doodle extras are assigned on a weekly basis. 

• Silver Reading Challenge: Encourage your child to work toward their Silver Reading Challenges, which are located at the back of their home-school book.

• Class Blog: Check the class blog regularly to keep up with everything we’re doing in school!

Phonics Screening Check
In the summer term, all Year 1 children will be required to sit the Phonics Screening Check. There will be more information about this passed on to you in the future, but in the meantime please help your child to prepare for this check by listening to them read regularly. Before Christmas, each child was given a small yellow sound book to practise their set 2 and set 3 sounds at home. 

General Reminders and Key Dates

PE remains on Tuesdays and Thursdays - please ensure your child has their kit in school and that they are able to safely remove their own earrings. 

•  Monday 6th January-Children back in school
• Tuesday 21st January-Movie Night
• Wednesday 29th January-Chinese New Year
• Monday 3rd February-Friday 7th February- Childrens' Mental Health Week
• Monday 3rd February-Book week assembly 
• Tuesday 11th February-Safer Internet Day
• Tuesday 11th February - Year 1 Visit to Keyworth Library
• Friday 14th February-Inset day-School closed
• Monday 17th February- Half term begins
•  Monday 24th February- School reopens

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to catch me at the door before and after school.