In D.T this week we practised the technique of sewing. We talked about what we might need sewing for and then practised how to do a running stitch. We used big netting and ribbon so that we could really focus on the technique of going in and out.

In Art today we enjoyed sketching fish. We used a real fish from the supermarket to help us with our drawings. We had to think about what we already knew about fish like they have scales, gills and fins. We had to focus hard on drawing what we could see and taking our time. I was really impressed with how the children persevered and created some very careful, detailed drawings!

This week in Science we identified what a carnivore, herbivore and an omnivore is. As part of our learning around this, Mrs Tatham-Hall made some animal playdough poos with either “meat”, “plants” or both in. The children then had to dig around in their poos and decide if the animal this poo came from was a carnivore, herbivore or an omnivore. The children did some great investigation work. They then wrote questions about this and thought of which animal could have done this poo!

This week in maths we have been learning how to compare numbers using greater than, less than and equal to symbols. We used cubes and straws to help us. This has been quite challenging and we have had to be tough tortoises to work through it!

This week we have been learning our story map for Handa’s Surprise. We loved thinking of the actions for the different animals in the story- well done everyone!

This week Year 1 had a visit from Sam’s Safari. It was such a fantastic visit and the children learnt so much about the different mammals, reptiles, insects and amphibians that visited us. I hope you enjoy the pictures!

We started the week off in 1C by learning how to find 1 less than a number. We spent today’s lesson working practically to find 1 less by using cubes. The children had to roll a dice and find 1 less than the number shown.

In computing we learnt about how to be safe when using technology by recognising when it’s time to “pause” and put our devices away. We practiced the “pause, breathe, finish up” routine as a class.

In science this week we looked at different types of animals and began to group them into mammals, reptiles, insects, birds, fish and amphibians. We discussed how we knew an animal belonged to this group, for example, a mammal has fur and four limbs. I was really impressed how the children worked together to group the animals.

We also began looking at our Big Question this half term which focuses on asking questions. We practiced spelling some question words and then the children challenged themselves by writing a sentence with one of these words in!

This week in Geography we have been looking at maps. We looked at the shape and size of different countries and began to identify continents. The children were really interested in the maps we looked at and were eager to find countries they knew. We also found countries on the map where some of the children’s families were from such as Japan, Pakistan and Ukraine.

It has been a very busy first week back in Year 1. It has been lovely getting to know the children and getting them used to the routines of Year 1. We have had lots of time to explore the provision in the classroom this week and I have been so impressed with how the children have engaged with it.

In writing we have been learning the poem, ‘There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly’. We have added actions to help us remember the words. If you would like to practise at home, we have been using this video in class to help us- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApmEM9-xA2c

Please enjoy a selection of photos from our week and I look forward to seeing you all again next week!