During the second term, we continued to make amazing progress. We have played, explored, learned, sang, danced and made Christmas crafts. We all worked as a team to create the magic that was our Christmas show “Light, Camel, Action”.
Maths
Birch class has been immersed in foundational concepts. From understanding number bonds to 10 to mastering addition and subtraction within 20, we have shown commendable progress. Using practical activities and engaging resources, we’ve delved into the world of mathematical operations, fostering a solid understanding of basic arithmetic
At Birch class, we’ve ventured into the captivating realm of shapes. We have been actively engaging with learning objectives, including recognizing and naming common 2D and 3D shapes, as well as exploring their properties. Through hands-on activities and interactive sessions, we’ve brought shapes to life, fostering a deep understanding of their characteristics.
Literacy
In this second term we continued to progress with the Jolly Phonics method (we have now practiced 37 out of 42 sounds). We read “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” and the students continued working on their handwriting skills, we read our books out loud to our classmates, we learned when to use Capital Letters/full stops in a sentence, we started to write sentences & and we played educational games to make learning fun. Lastly, the students worked so hard to learn their lines for the Christmas Show.
writing exercises 
story sequencing 
adding capital letters & full stops 
phonics educational games
French with Marie
Durant cette deuxième période les enfants ont continué les activités et les apprentissages. En effet, nous avons principalement lu 6 albums de jeunesse (en lien avec les fêtes tels que Halloween, Noël, les formes, l’hiver…) :
De ces ouvrages, ont découlé différentes activités qui ont permis l’exploitation de ces histoires. Nous avons donné du sens à l’apprentissage des voyelles et des consonnes. Une façon plus ludique et une approche plus concrète d’étudier la langue française.
A chaque début de semaine, vos enfants ont appris et chanté une nouvelle chanson (6 semaines = 6 chansons) :
La sorcière Gribouilla, La pluie qui mouille, Pétrouchka, Loin du froid de décembre, Vive le vent, Noël, Petit garçon.
Les objectifs de cette période ont été de :
– pratiquer la langue française
– construire des phrases simples mais correctes
– oser s’exprimer en petit groupe
– compréhension d’histoires lues
– connaître les voyelles et les consonnes (s, r, t, c, ch, n, m) ainsi que le principe du code alphabétique
– associer le nom de la consonne au geste et surtout au son qu’elle produit.
– réciter une poésie “Mois d’automne”
– chanter collectivement une chanson
Science
At Birch class, we’ve taken a fascinating dive into the theme of ‘Explorers and Adventures.’ We have actively delved into the diverse habitats of our planet, discovering the incredible animals that call them home. Through hands-on experiences and captivating lessons, we’ve ignited a sense of wonder about the world. Birch students have eagerly embraced the tales of renowned explorer Jane Goodall, gaining insights into her impactful work with primates.
Design and Technology
This term Birch and Walnut students became robotic scientists and engineers as they got engaged in creating electric circuits and designing their own toys. We investigated with various materials to find out which ones are conductors and insulators. We learnt about different electrical components (e.g. bulb, motor, buzzer, switch, battery) their role and how they need to be connected to make an electrical circuit. We used imagination and gained knowledge to create our very own buzzing-drawing robot and burglar alarm.
Forest and PE
In our Forest Exploration and PE sessions, the classic game of hide and seek has become a must. The children eagerly embraced the thrill of hiding and seeking amidst nature, adding an extra layer of joy to our outdoor adventures. These sessions have not only kept us active but also fostered a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderie. Forest Exploration and PE have truly been a highlight, with hide and seek adding an extra dash of fun to our outdoor escapades.
Topic
French Topic:
The theme for this period was “Explorers and adventurers.” We explored and studied how people discovered the world, the tools they needed and they used to embark on a journey to the ends of the earth. We’ve read these books:
They primarily rehearsed for the Christmas show.
They learned the songs for the Christmas show.
Finally, they performed the “Light Camel Action” show.
Music
With Marie:
During this second period, the children rehearsed the songs for the Christmas show.
Simultaneously, they studied the musical tale of ‘The Nutcracker.’
With Lucia:
During our Music lessons, we’ve been attuned to the nuances of rhythm and beat. Through engaging sessions, our students have delved into understanding the distinction between rhythm and beat. Exploring various musical genres, they’ve not only heard but felt the pulse and cadence that define these elements.
Art
With Marie:
During this period, the children prepared and painted the backdrop for the Christmas show.
They also made Christmas decorations out of salt dough.
With Lucia:
In our Art classes creativity knows no bounds. We kicked off the term by crafting our own treasure maps with coffee, setting the stage for a journey filled with artistic exploration. Throughout the term, the festive spirit took hold as we dedicated our time to Christmas-themed crafts. Using a myriad of materials, paints, and techniques, we immersed ourselves in creating unique masterpieces. Additionally, we poured our creative energy into crafting decorations for the Christmas Show.
Coding and Programming Workshop
This term, Birch class continued to learn how to do Coding and Programming in ScratchJr by: choosing a background, choosing characters, writing titles and changing colours, making programs to make the characters move, grow, shrink, move to the left, to the right and have conversations. The themes were the following:
*Spooky Forest
*Dribble a baskbetball
*Dance party
*Meet and Greet
*Classroom conversation
*Christmas scene which included flashing lights and a star
Cooking
At Birch class, the festive season brought the sweet aroma of Christmas delights. Together with Maple and Chestnut classes, we rolled up our sleeves to create delicious Xmas cookies, spreading joy and a sprinkle of creativity in the kitchen. As a delightful collaboration, we also whipped up a delectable cake for the whole school’s Christmas party.
Halloween
In Halloween, our class buzzed with excitement as kids dressed up, crafted slime, carved pumpkins, and enjoyed a scavenger hunt. Parents pitched in for a laid-back Halloween party with music, snacks, and games, making it a memorable celebration for everyone involved.
