Elm Class Blog 5 , 2021-2022

English

This term Elm studied the Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank as part of their learning about World War II in Europe and Hitler’s relentless persecution of Jews.

Not much older than themselves, Elm observed how Anne’s life changed, from happy middle-class girl whose preoccupations were friends and boys, to the mature and reflective person who pondered the meaning of life and concluded that ‘in spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart.’

The class reflected upon and wrote about the resilience of human nature under the most dire and frightening circumstances, as demonstrated by the residents of the Annex. At the same time, they observed the petty arguments that broke out among the same group of people forced into such close proximity with one another with no respite, while the ‘hiders’ risked their lives each day to protect them.

Elm class learnt a poem this year called Hope is the Thing with Feathers by Emily Dickinson. It is about the driving force of hope that burns in human beings, even when life is at its bleakest:

“Hope” is the thing with feathers

That perches in the soul

And sings the tune without the words

And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard;

The courage, resilience and hope for the future expressed by Anne Frank through her diary entries is testimony to the power of hope.

French

Oaks-et-Elms-francais-TERM-5 Download

BLOG-JUIN-ELM-OAK Download

DDM-EMC-OAKS-ET-ELMS-TERM-5 Download

Mathematics

In Geometry and measures, Elm worked on identifying and constructing congruent triangles, and constructed similar shapes by enlargement, with and without coordinate grid. In Statistics , the children constructed and interpreted different tables, charts, and diagrams, including frequency tables, stem and leaf diagrams and pie charts. In Algebra,, Elms worked on solving Formulae problems and linked to our Young Entrepreneurs project, constructed and solved real life problems while calculating profit, expenses and interest rate.

Young Entrepreneurs Project – Business project

A business is more than just a product or a service. Behind every item that we buy, every service that we use, there is a story. Running a business involves many skills – creativity, leadership, team work, communication, budgeting, planning, design, customer-awareness and many more. During this unit, children learnt these vital business skills, as they embarked on their business journey. The children were encouraged to take risks, be independent and realise that the hard work that goes into planning and setting up a business pays off.

The children engaged in team activities to create their business plan, research the market, practice pricing and budgeting and design logos and slogans. Four teams created their own stylish leaflets and implement strategies to increase their profit.

We do not learn from experience … we learn from reflecting on experience. – John Dewey

Like all serious business people, Elm and Oak Young Entrepreneurs met to reflect upon the performance of their respective business projects at the Summer Fete. Their ‘project retrospectives’ were a moment to think about:

· What they had planned to do

· What actually happened

· Why it happened

· What they would do next time

· What they learnt

· How they can improve

Ginormous THANK YOU to all our customers for supporting our business venture ! We would not have been able to do it without you!

Trip to Accrocamp St.Germain en Laye

Oak and Elm visited Parc Accrocamp, a tree climbing adventure park located in the forest around Saint Germain-en-Laye.

This event took place to celebrate the achievements of our Young Entrepreneurs who, as you know, recently devised, planned, acquired bank loans for and ran businesses, the proceeds of which have covered the cost of this well-deserved class activity.

The tree climbing activities will see the children discovered a variety of courses, including rope bridges, zip lines and scramble nets, high up in the trees (safely secured in harnesses, of course).

Science

This term, Elm class learnt about cells and the reproduction. The children focused their learning at looking closely at the functions of the cell wall, cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, vacuole, mitochondria and chloroplasts. They did this by learning how to observe, interpret and record cell structure using a light microscope. From this the class were asked to observe and record the similarities and differences between plant and animal cells, doing this by taking a close look at the structural adaptations of some unicellular organisms.

Once they had collected their data the Elm class were asked to present their findings to their peers. They did this by creating their own presentations as well as setting themselves their own success criteria to achieve this task.

History

This term was all about World War II and as well as learning about the war itself the focus was about how and why it happened. Our research led us back to the outcome of World War I and the Treaty of Versailles.

Elm learnt about the punishing terms of the treaty that were intended to crush Germany but in doing so sparked a nationalist backlash that unleashed Hitler. They learnt about the attitudes and goals of the main parties responsible for imposing the terms: France, the U.S. and Britain.

The class learnt about the outbreak of WW2 and the German occupation of Europe. To reverse German expansion the allies needed a presence in Europe and the beaches of Normandy were chosen as the entry point. Both Oak and Elm learnt about Operation Overlord and took a trip to Normandy to see for themselves some key sites of the D-Day landings, with a visit to Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc and the American Cemetery. The also visited the Overlord Museum dedicated to the memory of this key event in WW2 and full of fascinating military equipment and memorabilia.

Geography

This term Elm learnt about coastlines and how they are constantly changing and being worn away, principally by the power of waves.

The class learnt about what causes waves and how they shape the coast.

They learnt the geographical terms to describe the processes of coastal change: erode, transport, deposit, longshore drift.

The learnt about the landforms created by waves and how to define and recognise them: beaches, bays, headlands, caves, arches, stacks, wave-cut platforms, spits.

They also looked at some of the reasons why the coastline in the UK is eroding fast, with a particular focus on the village of Happisburgh on the east coast, where the sea is gradually taking the ground from under people’s homes. They researched the different kinds of coastal defences that are available as part of ongoing coastal management of the land-sea boundary.

ICT

This closing term, Elms used Colab or ‘Colaboratory’ from Google, it allowed students to write and execute Python. The students worked in an introductory project to learn the correct format to input string variables into Python. They came up with their own ideas for menus (starter-main-desert) and chose three options to offer each day, some of them added drinks to their menus. Here is an example of one of the student’s work:

Students learned how to use Canva (website used to create professional designs) and spent their last term days working in the Summer fête posters. Here are examples of their work:

Elms showed their ICT skills by learning how to use a new platform and finding the solutions to the everyday challenges that each lesson brought. Well done Elms!

Spanish

This last term, Elms developed their Spanish skills by learning about infinitive verbs, identifying them from a text and being able to conjugate those verbs in present tense.

They were able to find the lyrics of two popular songs in Latin America (Color Esperanza and La Copa de la Vida) by choosing from a list of words. They found the meaning of those words and were able to sing the songs out loud. They found out that some names of Sports in Spanish and English are almost the same or quite similar and reviewed the vocabulary related to these Sports plus some important information. They were able to read and answer related questions from a text. Buen trabajo Elms!

Sports Day

Enjoy your summer, ELMS!

All the very best from Mrs. Harrington, Christine, Joanna, Cecilia, Lucia, Mr.H and Mr.Kralka

07/07/202207/07/2022

Oak Class Blog 5, 2021-2022

English

In this term’s book When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit, the young girl Anna flees Berlin with her brother and parents in 1933 when Hitler is elected Chancellor, and the family begin a new life as refugees, initially in Switzerland, only to move to Paris and then England.

French

Oaks-et-Elms-francais-TERM-5 Download

BLOG-JUIN-ELM-OAK Download

DDM-EMC-OAKS-ET-ELMS-TERM-5 Download

Mathematics

In Geometry Oaks drew polygons and classified them by identifying their properties, including their line of symmetry. We worked on visualising 3-D objects from 2-D drawings; made nets of common solids and measured their volume. We also experimented with cubes/pyramids and cones/cylinders and solved practical volume problems. We filled them with sugar and found out that the volume of a square based pyramid is 1/3 of the volume of a cube where the base and height is the same in both shapes. We also worked on plotting and identifying co-ordinates while Translating, Rotating 2D shapes and clearly remember the success criteria for these movements. Oaks also solved problems with angles at a point and angles at a point on a straight line We continued measuring angles with the increased accuracy and now can do it confidently to one degree. Linked to our ‘Young Entrepreneur’ project, we solved various percentage, price and quantity word problems.

Young Entrepreneurs Project – Business project

We do not learn from experience … we learn from reflecting on experience. – John Dewey

· What they had planned to do

· What actually happened

· Why it happened

· What they would do next time

· What they learnt

· How they can improve

Ginormous THANK YOU to all our customers for supporting our business venture ! We would not have been able to do it without you!

Trip to Accrocamp St.Germain en Laye

Oak and Elm visited Parc Accrocamp, a tree climbing adventure park located in the forest around Saint Germain-en-Laye.

The tree climbing activities will see the children discovered a variety of courses, including rope bridges, zip lines and scramble nets, high up in the trees (safely secured in harnesses, of course).

Science

This term, Oak class learnt about living things and their habitats. They learnt how to describe living things as well as how they can be classified based on similarities and differences. The class also were asked to give reasons for classifying plants and animals based on specific characteristics. Oak Class also learnt about the body and its functions. We looked closely are the different organs of the body, identifying and naming the main parts of the human circulatory system

History

Oak learnt about the punishing terms of the treaty that were intended to crush Germany but in doing so sparked a nationalist backlash that unleashed Hitler. They learnt about the attitudes and goals of the main parties responsible for imposing the terms: France, the U.S. and Britain.

Oak learnt about the outbreak of WW2 and the German occupation of Europe. To reverse German expansion the allies needed a presence in Europe and the beaches of Normandy were chosen as the entry point. Both Oak and Elm classes learnt about Operation Overlord and took a trip to Normandy to see for themselves some key sites of the D-Day landings, with a visit to Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc and the American Cemetery. They also visited the Overlord Museum, dedicated to the memory of this key event in WW2 and full of fascinating military equipment and memorabilia.

Geography

The focus in Geography was Glaciers, when they formed, where in the world they are found, and the marks these ‘rivers of ice’ have left on the landscape.

The class learned:

The stages of glacial formation
Key features associated with glacial landscapes
To explain how glaciers form using geographical vocabulary and diagrams.

ICT

This closing term, Oaks did a fantastic job on Trinket (which is a visual learning platform to Python coding and programming) and discovered Tina which is a turtle that is controlled by code. By changing the code (signs, numbers, words..) the students get a different outcome each time on the right of the screen, also depending on the theme and its different functions and commands, where they could see the immediate results of their work.

Some of the challenges they solved were:

Make different shapes by changing the code
By using input function and variable Tina could ask them different questions to create a database
Adding colors to text
Made circles of different sizes and colours
By going forward, backward, left and right
By giving instructions to Tina to solve Math problems and simple questions

Students were not afraid of trying out new things, even if this was completely new to most of them. This platform gave them the opportunity to correct their mistakes and even being okay when making them. They must be proud of their work. Here are some examples of what they accomplished:

Spanish

This end-of-school-year term, Oaks developed their Spanish skills by learning about descriptions of our town or city and identifying the different places they could find around the area they live in, they worked on basic vocabulary words, identifying sounds, writing down sentences and talking to their partners about their ideas.

As summer quickly approached, students were interested about sports and its similar names in Spanish compared to the names in English, besides practicing the basic vocabulary related to it, they were able to identify the words in an audio and wrote sentences about the Sports they prefer and their friends’ preferences as well.

By the end of term they made a Power Point presentation about Spanish-speaking countries and their most important facts, landmarks and traditions. Buen trabajo Oaks!

Sports day

Enjoy your summer, Oaks!

All the very best from Mrs. Harrington, Christine, Joanna, Cecilia, Lucia, Mr. H and Mr. Kralka

22/04/202222/04/2022

Oak Class, Term 4, 2021- 2022

English

This term Oak worked hard on their language skills, with a particular emphasis on vocabulary and reading comprehension. The class also enjoyed reading and analysing character descriptions, the highlight of which was Roald Dahl’s outrageous Miss Trunchbull, contrasted with the sweet and gentle Miss Honey. The class also read descriptions of Jo from Bleak House, and of the distinctive features of Harry Potter. Oak then wrote their own character descriptions, some based on real people and others entirely imaginary.

The class also wrote instruction texts, giving simple clear instructions, using the imperative tense.

They also honed their presentation skills with a weekly show and tell.

French

OAKS-ELMS-FRANCAIS-TERM-4 Download

BLOG-AVRIL-Oak-and-Elm-1 Download

DDM-EMC-OAKS-ET-ELMS-FRANCAIS-TERM-4 Download

Spanish

During term 4, Oak continued to learn about cultural traditions in Spanish-speaking countries and applied their knowledge through different hands-on activities. They developed their language skills and explored various topics such as school, telling the time and numbers.

As part of the Mardi Gras celebrations, the Spanish class had a Carnival lesson in which they applied the key words into a diagram and made a carnival mask, which they proudly displayed while eating pancakes. The class read an article about Spring, answered some comprehension questions and sang a rhyme about flowers. They also discovered the ´Isla de Pascua´ or Easter Island, its location, history and main facts. Students reviewed vocabulary about Easter, painted Easter eggs on cardboard paper and decorated them with pasta.

The class learnt the vocabulary of school materials, what they have in their pencil cases, in written and spoken form. They showed their friends parts of the school, for example classrooms, the lunch room and the swimming pool; through a game they also learned about using prepositions of place such as “in front”, “at the back” and how to indicate places using “left” and “right”. As a final activity, they constructed phrases on how to locate parts of the school. Moreover, they observed how school subjects in English and Spanish are written in a similar way, identified them and chose their favourites. They learned about telling the time, drew a clock and asked “What time is it?” and answered the question. They reviewed the days of the week by singing a song. Students revised numbers 1 to 20 and played a game which helped them to practise their writing and speaking skills.

This term Oak showed more confidence in their learning; they are increasing their listening and speaking abilities every day. Well done Oaks, keep up the good work.

Mathematics

In Algebra: Expressions /Formulae/ System of equations

We worked on simplifying algebraic expressions, used simple formulae and wrote formulae from the problem to identify how they could be applied in real life. We worked on solving problems while substituting specific values into expressions and formulae and then some of us probed further into algebra while finding solutions for the systems of equations.

Ratio

During this unit we studied how to solve different measurement and ratio problems and practised applying gained knowledge to real-life problems during our ”Food Revolution” project.

Science

This term, the children have been learning about how matter is made up of small particles. They have been learning about the distance between those particles which determine whether or not they are classed as a solid, liquid or gas. We have carried out a number of investigations to test what happens when a solid turns into a liquid as well as what happens when a liquid turns into a gas. By doing this we have thought of different ways in which we could test, fairly, our own hypotheses.

As we learnt more about the different particles found within solids, liquids and gases, the class was asked to demonstrate what they would look like in different matter. We achieved this by working as a group using our bodies.

History

Oak learnt about one of France’s most iconic figures, Napoleon Bonaparte, an Emperor who emerged out of the French Revolution. Widely viewed as one of the greatest generals in military history, Oak learnt about his origins in Corsica and his ascent to a prominence that would not have been possible in a pre-revolutionary era. They learnt about his rise and eventual fall, an extraordinary man who claimed in his memoirs that everything he did was in the name of France and the Revolution after having demonstrated a single-minded pursuit of personal power. Oak also researched his fascinating first wife Josephine, who grew up in faraway Martinique on a sugar plantation and arrived in Paris as an unsophisticated girl of 15, a great disappointment to her new husband Alexandre de Beauharnais, who considered her provincial and uneducated. The class learnt that Josephine narrowly escaped the guillotine (unlike her first husband) and went on to become the darling of Parisian society before marrying the rough mannered young Corsican Napoleon Bonaparte who would make her Empress of the French.

Oak and Elm visited the Chateau de Malmaison, the home purchased by Josephine while her husband was away fighting his Egyptian campaign and which he gave to her after their divorce in 1809. The house is filled with artefacts and possessions and family portraits that bring a tangible human element to the historic lives of these two extraordinary people.

Visit to the Chateau de Malmaison

Geography

Oak continued to work on maps; mind maps, sketch maps and grid maps. They drew mental maps of the areas in which they live. They drew sketch maps based on a photo, then studied the same map drawn to scale and then presented with a grid. They learnt that maps require a title, a frame, a scale and a key. They learnt about the symbols used to represent features on a map, provided in the key.

ICT

Oaks had a challenging and productive term in which they applied their computing skills to different hardware and software. They developed their problem-solving and logical skills, as well as communication and teamwork. As we know, computers and especially robots don’t always work as we want them to, so pupils had to use their social and emotional skills to complete their projects.

Micro:bit

The students who worked with the micro:bit developed several programs in a software called MakeCode. They made projects on animated animals, flashing emotions, name badge, just to name a few. The ‘Dice’ program used the micro:bit accelerometer so that when you shake it, the program selects a random number between 1 and 6 and shows it on the LED display. The ‘Sunlight sensor’ program used an “if…else” statement to show the sun image only if the light level is greater than (>) a certain level. The ‘Counter’ program used a variable called ‘count’ to keep track of the number you are counting. It sets the variable to 0 at the start. Every time you press button B, it increases the count variable by 1 and shows it on the LED display.

By the end of term, students had chosen two projects designed to explore technology as a solution to the challenges of the Global Goals for Sustainable Development. The projects were ‘Saving Sea Turtles’ and ‘Light up fishing nets’. The first one could be used at ground level to guide humans along a beach path at night, without confusing sea turtle hatchlings with tall, bright lights that they may mistake for the moon. In the second one, students created a prototype of LED lights that can stop unwanted fish, turtles and birds from getting trapped in fishing nets.

Makeblock Mbot

The students who worked with the Makeblock Mbot learned how to connect the mBot to the computer and use the software. Additionally, they made many programs to make the robot perform actions, such as:

-Make the robot move using the keyboard.

-Program the mBot to dance and sing using the buzzer. The code causes the LEDs to show different colours.

-Use the ultrasonic sensor on the mBot and how the robot stops moving when it meets an object.

-The robot moves around by itself avoiding obstacles.

EV3 Lego Mindstorms

The students who worked with the EV3 Lego Mindstorms built the robot using the pieces they got by following the building instructions displayed on the computer. Furthermore, they learned how to connect the robot to the computer and use the software.

Additionally, they created many programs to make the robot perform actions, such as:

-How to make your robot go forward and backwards.

-Used a combination of move steering to go straight and do pivot turns to go around the box.

-How to use the Touch Sensor.

-How to use the Wait For Block.

-Learned the difference between the Wait For Block and the Sensor Blocks.

-What is the ultrasonic sensor and how to use it.

Well done Oaks for working hard this term

Capoeira

“mens sana in corpore sano” – “a healthy mind in a healthy body”

Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics and music.

Elms thoroughly enjoyed their weekly Capoeira sessions with Valdir.

Music with Kareen

”Food revolution” – Project

The main purpose of this « FOOD REVOLUTION » (We can cook our own lunch for the whole week) was to practise team building skills, plan and prepare a healthy meal and, most importantly, gain or practise basic culinary skills. During this project, the children also worked on demonstrating and improving their table manners. It was pleasing to observe the young chefs, waiters and guests participating and communicating extremely well with each other. Master chefs stayed determined while preparing their three-course meals even though it was tough to accomplish the challenge in a short period of time. We learnt that it was important to stay focused and organised until the last moment and realised that a last push could make the difference for the team. Thank you and well done to all Oak and Elm class students for their dedication, determination and hard work during our «Food revolution» project.

FOOD REVOLUTION

We’ve peeled some veg,
Then cooked our lunch.
Then baked a cake,
What a charming bunch.

We’ve tried something new,
And it was quite delicious.
It was all organic,
So don’t be suspicious.

We’ve learnt a new skill,
And now can cook for our parents.
We will do it with love,
No need to buy presents.

Not scared of broccoli, onions
Or carrots,
Will eat them with pleasure,
And not for the merits.

Did stuff some tomatoes,
And made panna cotta.
Now feeling quite strong,
And can sit in Capoeira roda.

We’ve made a delicious Thai Curry,
And spicy fajitas.
I am ready to run,
Where are my Adidas?

Broccoli linguine
and revisited American cheesecake,
I am so full,
But I have learnt how to bake.

Was happy to give up my break,
And tidy the kitchen.
It is good to eat healthy,
And what’s your position?

Design and Technology – FISP Book Swap Project

Collaborative project- Birch, Walnut, Oak and Elm Classes

This term we continued working on our collaborative creation, the “FISP Book Swap Box”. Students had the opportunity to extend their understanding of a variety of different carpentry techniques. It is pleasing to see that Birch, Walnut, Oak and Elm students now demonstrate precise actions while using a drill, hammer and a saw. FISP students should be congratulated on their efforts and their eagerness to get on with the project right away from the beginning of each session. Fantastic work young designers and carpenters, you should be proud of your achievements!

Orienteering project

Oak Class designed their own treasure map and taught their younger friends how to turn clockwise and anti-clockwise, use a compass and follow directions. They tried their best to adapt their speech and gave clear clues, hints and instructions while guiding their younger explorers on their orienteering quest.

Easter Egg Hunt

World Book Day– Book Workshop with Anjali Morard

On the last day of term Oak and Elm were lucky to have a visit from children’s author Anjali Morard, who began by reading out loud her charming story about Fortnum the crocodile, which began life as a bedtime story for her young son. The class heard about the author’s writing process and her collaboration with the illustrator of the book, and then embarked on a writing workshop, writing their own stories based around a random selection of features covering setting, time and character. At the end of the session, several pupils read out their fun and imaginative stories.

Enjoy your holiday!

Best wishes,

Mrs. Harrington, Christine, Joanna, Cecilia, Kareen, Mr. H , Valdir, Cyril and Mr. Kralka

22/04/202207/06/2022

Elm Class, Term 4, 2021- 2022

English

Elm read And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie and everyone had plenty to say about this dark story of crime and punishment. Ten unwitting characters are invited to Soldier Island on a variety of pretexts by an anonymous host who plans to hold them accountable for their alleged crimes. Once there they are picked off one by one in a terrifying ordeal as they all suspect each other of being the murderer. The book raises questions about the nature and importance of justice and of crimes going unpunished due to lack of evidence. Each member of the class chose a character to save from the island, based on what they knew of their crime and of how the character is presented in the story. The dodgy doctor Armstrong was a popular choice while the feckless Tony Marston and hard-hearted Emily Brent received support from pupils who did valiant work defending their not very likeable clients.

The class dressed up in character and went before a jury of their peers (Oak class), answering questions about the crimes they were accused of and of their subsequent conduct, in a bid to win sympathy and excuse their actions.

Dr. Armstrong Anthony Marston Philip Lombard General Macarthur

French

OAKS-ELMS-FRANCAIS-TERM-4 Download

BLOG-AVRIL-Oak-and-Elm-1 Download

DDM-EMC-OAKS-ET-ELMS-FRANCAIS-TERM-4 Download

Spanish

During term 4, Elm continued to learn about cultural traditions and festivities in Spanish- speaking countries and applied their knowledge through different hands-on activities. They developed their language, learning about singular and plural nouns, that nouns in Spanish have a gender, and definite and indefinite articles.

As the school celebrated Mardi Gras, Elm class enjoyed a lesson on Carnival, in which they applied the key vocabulary in a reading and writing activity and then made a mask which they displayed proudly while eating pancakes. They explored language related to Spring, read a poem and answered some simple questions. In addition, they portrayed how they imagined a Spring scene to look, based on the poem they had read. The class also learnt about the ‘Isla de Pascua’ or Easter Island, discovering key facts such as its location, history, geography and wildlife. Students reviewed vocabulary about Easter and painted Easter eggs on cardboard paper and decorated them with pasta. Afterwards, they wrote down the materials they used and the instructions they followed to do the activity; they then identified the verbs and the definite and indefinite articles.

Elm class classified nouns into feminine, masculine, singular and plural and pointed out the rules on how to determine the gender of nouns and choose the definite article that corresponds. Through numerous written activities they practised how to apply the rules and developed their language by reading and classifying nouns. As in English, they discovered definite and indefinite articles and how to differentiate between them . Lastly, they played games and riddles for guessing the names of colours.

Mathematics

Linear and Quadratic equations

Linked to our “Egg project”, we created our own hypothetical and real problems based on our incubator and then constructed various graphs to represent our findings. In algebra, we closely looked into linear equations and then learnt how they could be represented geometrically. We substituted random values in these equations which subsequently helped us draw: y=x, y=x-1, y=x-2 and what they represent. We practiced calculating the gradient and substituted specific values into different equations in order to represent them geometrically.

Probability and ratio

During this unit, we discovered vocabulary related to probability and know that Impossible, Unlikely, Even Chance, Likely and Certain relate to 0, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 and 1, respectively. We then solved probability problems where we had to find all possible outcomes and calculated the probability of the desirable outcome. We then moved onto solving problems with ratio and now know how to simplify ratios and how to use ratio to compare quantities.

Fraction and Number

During this unit, Elms revised how to find percentages of amounts and fractions of numbers. The children practised finding the equivalent fractions by multiplying/dividing the numerator and denominator by the same number and then converted mixed numbers and improper fractions. The children can confidently carry out four basic operations with fractions and know how to find the LCD (Lowest Common Denominator) or when they need to simplify their fraction. We solved one-step and two-step problems involving numbers, money and measures including fractions and percentages. The children worked on choosing and using appropriate calculation strategies while solving word problems and will find these skills useful during next term’s ”Young Entrepreneurs” project. We also looked into solving and simplifying Algebraic fractions and knowing common rules for the operations with fractions evidently helped us here.

Science

This term the children have been learning about material properties. We have broken our learning down into stages; first we focused on identifying the different elements found on the periodic table. Once we had identified them, we then grouped them; this process enables the children to develop an understanding of similar characteristics found in different elements. The class went on to learn about the atomic structure of an element and how each one is different due to the number of protons and electrons found within it. As a class, we developed our enquiry skills to explore chemical reactions; the class discussed and explored what would happen when an element mixes with oxygen. The children also learnt about how to write and solve different scientific formulae. Finally, the class investigated the levels of calcium found in water. The results were very interesting! Well done for all your hard work this term!

History

Elm’s focus this term, with the Presidential elections upon us, was on the French Republic and its evolution since the tumultuous days of the Revolution. Each member of the class took a republic and presented its key features and events to their peers, giving everyone an overview of the country’s sometimes turbulent history. The extraordinary figure of Napoleon Bonaparte loomed large in our studies, the man who rose to prominence thanks to the Revolution only to crown himself Emperor. We visited one of his homes, the Chateau de Malmaison, which he bequeathed to his first wife Josephine after he divorced her in 1809.

Visit to the Chateau de Malmaison

Geography

This term Elm learnt about the different regions of France and their division into administrative territories called departments. The country was once a jigsaw of lands, haphazardly aggregated over the centuries, with the different laws and institutions of each region often kept intact. After the Revolution the National Assembly redivided the nation’s territory into 83 departments of roughly equal size (with each capital no more than a day’s horseback ride from the furthest corners of the department). Crucially, the departments had the same systems and institutions, bringing an element of uniformity to the country’s administration while promoting decentralisation and local autonomy.

The class learnt that the regions and departments, like the French Republic itself, now in its fifth incarnation, are subject to change, with borders being redefined as populations grow and fluctuate. The regions were most recently revised in 2016 and reduced in number from 22 to 13 in a bid to reduce bureaucracy and reduce costs.

The departments today vary wildly in size and population and now number 101 (96 in mainland France and 5 overseas territories).

We discovered that the departments are named after physical geographical features (rivers, mountains or coasts) and that that they are numbered in alphabetical order. We learnt many interesting random facts including that the Var is named after the Var River that doesn’t run through the Var.

Each member of the class chose a department to research and present, giving information about climate, geography, population, distinctive features and cultural identity. We learnt about Finistère, Lozères, Vendée, the Vaucluse and Ardennes.

Name that department!

ICT

Elms had a challenging and productive term in which they applied their computing skills to a Vector drawing software called Inkscape. They developed their problem-solving and logic skills as well as communication as they gave support to their friends in difficulty. As we know, computers and especially robots don’t always work as we want them to, so pupils had to use their social and emotional skills to complete their projects.

Through a sequence of guided steps, students were acquainted with the basics of using software to draw geometrical shapes and manipulate them. These elementary shapes formed the building blocks of the more complex designs they created by the end of the unit.

By using this software they developed numerous skills, such as to be able to:

● Draw basic shapes (rectangle, ellipse, polygon, star) with different properties (fill and stroke, shape-specific attributes)

● Manipulate individual objects (select, move, re-size, rotate, duplicate, flip, z-order)

● Manipulate groups of objects (select, group/ungroup, align, distribute)

By the end of the unit students were able to display their learning outcomes by creating monochrome icons. They were challenged to create some of them from scratch, starting from elementary shapes and combining them with path operations. The icons were carefully selected to range from simple ones that were straightforward to produce to more complex ones that required some creative thinking.

At this stage, students had to actively think about the process they would follow in order to produce each of the designs. They knew the ingredients they could use (the elementary shapes) and how to combine them (the operations), but they needed to work out the steps that would lead them from start to finish.

By the end of term, Elms programmed the micro:bit to use as a wearable device and to remind people to exercise regularly when the hardware detects a lack of physical activity. The last week of school before the Spring holiday, they made the code for a door alarm that worked just like a real door sensor in a home security system.

Capoeira

“mens sana in corpore sano” – “a healthy mind in a healthy body”

Elms enjoyed their weekly Capoeira sessions with Valdir. Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics and music.

Music with Kareen

”Food revolution” – Project

The main purpose of this « FOOD REVOLUTION » (We can cook our own lunch for the whole week) was to practise team building skills, plan and prepare a healthy meal and most importantly gain or practise basic culinary skills. During this project, the children also worked on demonstrating and improving their table manners. It was pleasing to observe the young chefs, waiters and guests participating and communicating extremely well with each other. Master chefs stayed determined while preparing their three-course meals even though it was tough to accomplish the challenge in a short period of time. We learnt that it was important to stay focused and organised until the last moment and realised that a last push could make the difference for the team. Thank you and well done to all Oak and Elm class students for their dedication, determination and hard work during our «Food revolution» project.

FOOD REVOLUTION

We’ve peeled some veg,
Then cooked our lunch.
Then baked a cake,
What a charming bunch.

We’ve tried something new,
And it was quite delicious.
It was all organic,
So don’t be suspicious.

We’ve learnt a new skill,
And now can cook for our parents.
We will do it with love,
No need to buy presents.

Not scared of broccoli, onions
Or carrots,
Will eat them with pleasure,
And not for the merits.

Did stuff some tomatoes,
And made panna cotta.
Now feeling quite strong,
And can sit in Capoeira roda.

We’ve made a delicious Thai Curry,
And spicy fajitas.
I am ready to run,
Where are my Adidas?

Broccoli linguine
and revisited American cheesecake,
I am so full,
But I have learnt how to bake.

Was happy to give up my break,
And tidy the kitchen.
It is good to eat healthy,
And what’s your position?

Design and Technology – FISP Book Swap Project

Fantastic Collaborative Work by Birch, Walnuts, Oaks and Elms

This term we continued working on our collaborative creation, the “FISP Book Swap Box”. Students had the opportunity to extend their understanding of a variety of different carpentry techniques. It is pleasing to see that Birch, Walnut, Oak and Elm students now demonstrate precise actions while using a drill, hammer and a saw. FISP students should be congratulated on their efforts and eagerness to get on with the project right away from the beginning of each session. Fantastic work young designers and carpenters! You should be proud of your achievements.

Orienteering project

Elm Class designed their own treasure map and taught their younger friends how to turn clockwise and anti-clockwise, use a compass and follow directions. They tried their best to adapt their speech and gave clear clues, hints and instructions while guiding their younger explorers on their orienteering quest.

Egg-citing Egg Presentation

Linked to our Egg Project, Elm students prepared and presented their findings about different kinds of eggs, egg science experiments and Faberge egg creations to their younger peers.

Easter Egg Hunt

World Book Day– Book Workshop with Anjali Morard

Enjoy your holiday!

Best wishes,

Mrs. Harrington, Christine, Joanna, Cecilia, Kareen, Mr. H , Valdir, Cyril and Mr. Kralka

19/02/202219/02/2022

Oak Class, Term3, 2021-2022

English

This term Oak class read two different books, both English classics, The Secret Garden and The Borrowers. While very different books, they both represent the era in which they were written, both featuring children who had grown up in India before returning to live in England.

The Secret Garden is, besides being a great story, a celebration of the healing power of nature. The spoiled and unloved Mary and the sickly hypochondriac Colin transform into happier, kinder and more vivacious characters through their interaction with the natural world, particularly the secret garden that they discover and tends.

The Borrowers, while a very different book, also depicts a young girl longing for independence and freedom from the confines of her restricted environment and rebelling against the over-protective care of her anxious parents.

French

DDM-Oaks-et-Elms-2 Download

Oaks-et-Elms-francais-2 Download

Notions abordées

Fonctions de communication : Poser des questions et savoir répondre à des questions concernant le calendrier (date, saison, météo…) –Présenter des activités quotidiennes – Demander l’heure – Savoir dire l’heure

Grammaire et conjugaison : Consolidation des notions abordées à la période précédente : la conjugaison de certains verbes : être, avoir et verbe du premier groupe au présent (suite) –La forme négative (simple) de la phrase – Des pronoms interrogatifs (suite)- Les verbes pronominaux

Vocabulaire : Des verbes d’actions quotidiennes– L’heure – L’hiver

Chansons-Poésies-Théâtre

Poésie :Chanson pour les enfants l’hiver Chanson : C’est l’hiver

Activités et Objectifs

Déroulement de la troisième période selon deux axes principaux :

Consolidation des notions étudiés durant la période précédente au niveau de la grammaire et de la conjugaison et des échanges oraux autour du calendrier.
Découverte de nouvelles fonctions de communication comme celle pour exprimer l’heure, les activités quotidiennes à travers différents supports.
Acquérir une base de vocabulaire sur le thème de l’hiver

Objectifs :

Développer l’expression orale dans des situations concrètes de la vie quotidienne
Sensibiliser les élèves à la lecture / écritures des sons complexes, à la grammaire et à la conjugaison française.

Prochaine période

En mars 2022, nous aborderons deux nouveaux thèmes : le sport et la fête. Avec le sport nous verrons notamment les différents sports, comment formuler différentes questions et expressions. Le thème de la fête nous permettra d’exprimer des goûts, des souhaits, de pratiquer des formules de politesse, de demander des prix…., et de parler de la fête célébrée en avril : Pâques.

Mathematics

Fraction and Number

During this unit, our mighty Oaks worked on finding percentages of amounts and fractions of numbers. The children practiced finding the equivalent fractions by multiplying/dividing the numerator and denominator by the same number and then converted mixed numbers and improper fractions. The children can confidently carry out four basic operations with fractions and know how to find the LCD (Lowest Common Denominator) or when they need to simplify their fraction. We solved one-step and two-step problems involving numbers, money and measures including fractions and percentages. The children worked on choosing and using appropriate calculation strategies while solving word problems.

Equivalent fractions,

Just means that they are the same.

They look a bit different,

But there is no one to blame.

Mixed number,

And improper fractions.

Are two best mates,

You can switch them around at 1:1 rates.

Adding and subtracting fractions,

With the same denominator.

Surely it is not difficult,

So don’t use calculator.

When adding fractions,

With the denominators that are not the same.

Find your Lowest Common Denominator,

Divide, multiply then add,

And you are on the fraction wall of fame.

Chocolate bar,

Or cut that apple in half.

You need to know fractions,

To share your love.

Percentages of the number,

And fractions of the shape.

They are very useful,

when you are cutting that cake.

Directions and co-ordinates.

Rotation and Translation.

The children practiced plotting the co-ordinates of different 2D shapes and then located their corresponding co-ordinates after rotation/translation. We know that 2D shapes stay the same after the rotation/translation and found out that using the tracing paper evidently help us to pinpoint our new location. We clearly understand that when we rotate the same shape around the origin and around the specific co-ordinate B, our new shapes will appear in two different locations.

History

Oak learnt about the lives of three people of principal who stood up for their beliefs and challenged authority in pursuit of a fairer society – Rosa Parks, Muhammad Ali and Nelson Mandela. All three broke the laws of the land in which they lived and all three were accused of crimes, only to be exonerated and eventually revered. Through their stories, Oak learnt about racial segregation in the US and South Africa and what the laws imposed meant for the lives of black people.

Geography

This term Oak learned how to use atlases and to access the information contained within them. They also learnt about latitude and longitude and how to find locations on a map with just their coordinates.

The class learned that there are two principal fields of geography, physical and human and how to differentiate between them.

During the ski trip to the Alps, an instructor gave the class a presentation on how to read mountain maps and signage as well as the importance of being properly equipped when skiing, particularly when skiing off-piste and what to do if caught in an avalanche.

The instructor gave them a practical task when he hid a backpack in the snow containing an avalanche transceiver (emergency locator beacon) and they set off to find it using the techniques and strategies they had been taught earlier – moving in a zig zag formation until they hear a signal and using the collapsible ski probe poles to locate the item before uncovering it with a lightweight plastic shovel.

Back in the classroom Elm learned about the different causes of avalanches and about one avalanche in Italy in 2015 that destroyed a hotel and killed many of its guests. They learned about the rescue and the remote location that made the rescue challenging for the emergency services.

Science

Fantastic Forces

This term, Oak class have been learning all about the different types of Forces that act upon an object. As a class we have explored the range of different Forces and the relationships that they have with one another. To understand these forces we first developed our knowledge and understanding by researching a chosen force.

We then applied this knowledge by conducting investigations that would help us to explain what Forces are acting upon and object at a given time. Our challenge was to form hypothesis and then test them out.

This enabled us to understand that there can be more than one Force acting upon an object at one time as well as that the Forces need to be balanced.

We have been able to apply of knowledge and understanding of Forces on our recent Ski trip. This was an amazing opportunity to take out learning further and to explore other types of Forces.

DT

”They made a difference”

Oak learnt about the lives and important inventions and discoveries made by Pythagoras, Leonardo da Vinci and Fibonacci. They found some hidden and evident links in various modern inventions and their daily life applications.

Linked to our discoveries , Oaks and Elms with some amazing support from Birch and Walnut Classes embarked on their Collaborative Design and Technology journey while constructing our own FISP Book Swap Box.

Spanish

This term, Oak class learned new vocabulary words related to Pinocchio’s story, such as name of furniture and household items and making the difference between masculine and feminine nouns. They enjoyed listening to the story in Spanish and made their own representations of the characters. They also practiced their Speaking abilities by memorizing a rhyme, being part of a role play game as waiters of a restaurant, Spanish greetings and salutations and responding to the question what’s in your school bag to their classmates. Finally, we spent the last days of the term discovering vocabulary related to school supplies. Furthermore, as part of their Spanish cultural learning they made a Valentine’s Day card and the vocabulary related to this day. It’s been great to see them more confident in their Spanish language abilities. Keep up the good work Oak!

ICT

This term we focused on the skills associated with planning and recording a video. The students were able to explain that video is the recording, reproducing, or broadcasting of moving visual images. Learners got familiar and applied several shot types and filming techniques, such as side by side, mid range, close up, moving subject and high angle. Additionally, students used a storyboard as a planning tool. They also learned how to use a professional camera, an iPad and iPhone/cellphone to record their videos, including how to how to start and stop recording and how to zoom in and zoom out.

Skiing Trip to Val Cenis

During our trip to Val Cenis , the children went on an emotional 6 day journey, far away from home. We were excited to go but tiny bit anxious to leave our parents. We were happy to meet new people and learn new things. We were frustrated when something did not work out straight away but were over the Moon with our progress on the slopes after 5 days of skiing. Most of the time we were happy and will remember this trip for the rest of our lives. We have discovered so many new things, learnt so much about ourselves and came back a little bit more independent.

Luiza just joined us,
And she is very mature.
And her tall brother Bruno,
Has a great sense of humour.

They come from Brazil,
But they once lived in China.
They are quite thorough with their work,
Often double check it, even mistakes that are minor.

Soren never went skiing,
But indeed was quite brave.
Don’t have to tell him twice,
He knows well how to behave.

Our Storm is a free spirit,
And runs with the wind.
Had bundles of fun skiing,
It is cold Storm! Where is your jacket? Take a hint.

Dylan often asks questions,
And he often has something to say.
Always went on super steep slopes,
And he never stayed at bay.

Gabriela just joined us ,
She is our DIY Queen.
Had a blast skiing, hungry for knowledge,
Well mannered and to learn she is keen.

Sara loves books,
And she reads them a lot.
She speaks Romanian, English and French,
She is our true polyglot.
She often sings,
And she was skiing like a pro,
Are we skiing now?
Shall I get ready to go?

Leo loves Maths,
And shared some tricks on how to play chess.
There were 4 boys in his room,
But they tidied their mess.

Filip AKA SUPER MARIO enjoyed skiing,
And was super fast on the sledge.
He was a well behaved student,
He pushed himself to the limit, he pushed himself to the edge.

Even Adam came with us ,
And his brother Dylan read him bed time story.
Zoomed down those slopes,
With Mrs Harrington on the first day,
Fighting for their glory.

Roger can crunch numbers,
And goes down the slope with the speed of light.
You should see his face light up,
And he adores the Turkish Delight.

Liam eats books,
On his quest for deep meaning.
Kindle, soft back or hard back?
Say it louder but don’t turn off the light,
Liam is reading.

Lukas loves Maths and he is our skiing pro,
Often sets himself a personal challenge.
Very organised with his stuff,
Just give him a task and he will surely manage.

Jean went down those slopes,
Whatever colour you name it.
Skiing champion he is ,
Just give him your record and he will break it.

Chloé had bundles of fun,
Are we going skiing now, Mr.Kralka?
I better run!
Was tired but marched on.
Had a blister but went on.
Our charming Chloé was our mini Sun.

Cecilia had no fear,
She quickly zoomed down that slope.
Part of our Brazilian Skiing Team,
One day will show off her talent,
Oak and Elm truly hope.

Oscar was ready,
From the moment they said GO.
Superstar on the slope,
And his confidence did grow.
He loves our mother nature,
And he spent so much time in a horizontal position on the slope,
Doesn’t like his ice-cream now,
Totally no problem, just give him some fresh snow.

From Forest International,
We are representing Oak.
And as you can see and hear,
This class is no joke.

From Forest International,
We are representing Elm.
And as you can see and hear,
This class is a Gem.

Enjoy your holiday!

Best wishes,

Mrs. Harrington, Christine, Joanna, Cecilia, Mr. H and Mr. Kralka

19/02/202207/06/2022

Elm Class, Term 3, 2021-2022

English

This term we have been reading Wonder by R. J. Palacio, the story of a boy with a facial deformity starting at high school. The book raises many themes, particularly society’s treatment of those who are different, and led to us questioning our own reactions, conscious and sub-conscious, to physical disability and other forms of ‘difference’. The boy in the book has a rare genetic condition known as Treacher Collins Syndrome and the class learned about the causes and symptoms and read an interview with Jono Lancaster, a young man who lives with the condition. Taking note of some of the scenarios he has faced and of the responses of people to him that he wishes he could change, the class wrote open letters from the point of view of someone with a physical disability, reflecting on how important it is to look beyond appearances.

French

DDM-Oaks-et-Elms-2 Download

Oaks-et-Elms-francais-2 Download

Notions abordées

Vocabulaire : Des verbes d’actions quotidiennes– L’heure – L’hiver

Chansons-Poésies-Théâtre

Poésie :Chanson pour les enfants l’hiver Chanson : C’est l’hiver

Activités et Objectifs

Déroulement de la troisième période selon deux axes principaux :

Consolidation des notions étudiés durant la période précédente au niveau de la grammaire et de la conjugaison et des échanges oraux autour du calendrier.
Découverte de nouvelles fonctions de communication comme celle pour exprimer l’heure, les activités quotidiennes à travers différents supports.
Acquérir une base de vocabulaire sur le thème de l’hiver

Objectifs :

Développer l’expression orale dans des situations concrètes de la vie quotidienne
Sensibiliser les élèves à la lecture / écritures des sons complexes, à la grammaire et à la conjugaison française.

Prochaine période

Mathematics

2D & 3D Shapes and their properties

Introduction to the Pythagoras’ Theorem. The children investigated with different triangles and understand the relationship between the three sides of the right angled triangle and know how to find the unknown side when two sides are provided.

Enthusiastic Elms constructed triangles using SSS(side, side, side), SAS(side, angle, side) and ASA(angle, side, angle) and can confidently use their protractor and compass while constructing a perpendicular to and from a point.
Elms used their previous knowledge of properties of faces, surfaces, edges and vertices of cubes, cuboids, prisms, cylinders, pyramids and cones and solved problems where they had to calculate their volume and surface area.

Ratio and Proportion

During this unit, Elms also investigated and solved various problems with ratio, direct and inverse proportion.

History

The theme this term was ‘They Made a Difference’ and Elm learned about the life of Nelson Mandela and his journey from activist to prisoner to Nobel Prize Laureate to President of South Africa.

In order to understand the background to his life, the class learnt about the arrival of Europeans in South Africa, the Dutch in the mid-1600s, followed by the British in the early 19^th century, and the subsequent Boer Wars between the two colonial powers. They learned how Apartheid was incorporated into law by the Nationalist Government in 1948 and of the terrible injustices suffered by the black population.

Geography

This term Elm looked at population and the reasons for its rapid growth from the 1700s, linked to breakthroughs in science and technology, better farming techniques and agricultural machinery, and the Industrial Revolution. They looked at the consequences of population growth and the social an environmental issues that arise.

During the ski trip to the Alps, an instructor gave the class a presentation on how to read mountain maps and signage as well as on the importance of being properly equipped when skiing, particularly when skiing off-piste and what to do if caught in an avalanche.

Science

Earth and Beyond!

This term, Elm class have been learning about the solar system that we live in. We have been looking closely at different aspects of space. For example, as class we explored the effects the Moon has on planet Earth, the life and death of stars as well as deep space to name a few.

The class developed their knowledge and understanding of space and the solar system through conducting their own research. They chose an area of study to investigate further. The information to complete the project is based on reading that they had done in class as well as at home.

Once the class had conducted their research they were given time to construct presentation that would clearly demonstrate what they had learnt over this term. They were challenged to think up of different ways to present their findings in a new and exciting ways.

As a result, the class have been able to support development of others understanding of this subject as well as developing their own presentational skills.

DT

”They made a difference”

Spanish

This term, Elm class read and discussed a poem about a rooster named “Colibri”, they enjoyed re-enacting the story and making drawings about it. They learned new vocabulary words related to kitchen utensils and household items by looking at artwork from the Renaissance period. Additionally, students practiced their Speaking abilities by being part of a role play game as waiters of a restaurant and reviewing Spanish greetings and salutations. Furthermore, as part of their Spanish cultural learning they made a Valentine’s Day card and the vocabulary related to this day. By the end of the term they developed their reading and writing skills by learning subject and personal pronouns and its use in sentences. Elm class is shining in Spanish and we’re proud of their hard work.

ICT

This term students created a website about the Solar System on a Content Management System called WordPress. They chose the theme (layout) and got a basic understanding of the dashboard as well as how to manage media (images, documents, audio and video files) and menus. They were able to create new posts and pages with the Block editor besides choosing the layout of these including the header, footer, sidebar and body.

Click on the following link to visit the student’s website: https://elm-ictproject-fisp.com/

Skiing Trip to Val Cenis

During our trip to Val Cenis , the children went on an emotional 6 day journey, far away from home. We were excited to go but tiny bit anxious to leave our parents behind. We were happy to meet new people and learn new things. We were frustrated when something did not work out straight away but were over the Moon with our progress on the slopes after 5 days of skiing. Most of the time we were happy and will remember this trip for the rest of our lives. We have discovered so many new things, learnt so much about ourselves and came back a little bit more independent.