In Maths, we have been continuing our learning on Multiplication and Division. We have been focusing on the 5 times tables and 10 times tables, developing fluency and confidence when recalling key facts. The children have been using multiplication facts to help them solve related division questions, strengthening their understanding of the link between the two operations. We have also explored patterns within the 5 and 10 times tables and compared them to spot similarities and differences. For example, we noticed that numbers in the 10 times table always end in a zero, and that the 5 times table alternates between ending in a 5 and a 0. 

In Writing, we have been describing characters from The Magic Paintbrush. The children have been learning how to generate powerful adjectives and include them in expanded noun phrases, such as the kind, brave young girl. We then built on this by adding extra information to turn our expanded noun phrases into full sentences.

In Geography, our new topic is China. This week we located China on a world map and identified that it is a large country in Asia. We used atlases to find countries that border China and to locate the Pacific Ocean. The children were excited to explore just how vast China is and where it sits within the continent of Asia.

In Art, we have begun an exciting project inspired by China. We have been studying traditional Chinese Willow Patterns, discussing their key features and learning about the story and symbols they represent. We also explored the work of ceramist Robert Dawson, who creates his own artwork by distorting and reimagining Willow patterns in a contemporary way.