Year 5

LITERACY - We cover various genres of writing, such as persuasive writing (includes giving individual talks to the class), recounts, report writing, myths and legends, film narrative, poetry and classical literary styles. Incorporated into this are grammar and spelling lessons, which are also taught as separate formal lessons. Comprehension lessons tie in with the genre of literature that is studied at the time. Comprehensive reading lists are given to the girls at the beginning of Year 5 to encourage a wide range of reading, both in breadth and depth.

NUMERACY - The National Curriculum is closely followed. Groupings are organised so that support and extension are provided, depending on the child's competence with numbers. A more focused approach to problem-solving is developed as the year progresses, and when the children are more secure with the basic principles covered.

SCIENCE - We cover six units of work throughout the year including Earth, Sun and Moon (which incorporates a visit from an Astrodome). Changing State, Gases Around Us, Keeping Healthy, Sound and Life Cycles. The girls take part in many different practical activities and enjoy our annual Science Week.

HISTORY - Our first area of study is 'The Tudors', focusing on the social aspects of life at the time and exploration. The girls also produce an individual project on one of the wives of Henry VIII and have enjoyed experiencing aspects of Tudor Life at venues in Essex. We have also held a Tudor Day at school for them to enjoy different aspects of the Tudor times and have the opportunity to dress up for both occassions!

Our second area of study is 'The Indus Valley Civilisation'. This is an archaeologically-based ancient history topic which, again, has incorporated an educational visit. In this topic, the girls learn how to think as historians and appreciate the role that archaeologists play. As part of their work, the girls produce a project on one aspect of that period.

GEOGRAPHY - Whilst the girls will have used their geographical skills for different aspects in our history topics, we do have one discrete topic for Geography, which is studying the physical aspects of 'Rivers', and the uses to which they are put.

ART/DT - Our Art/DT lessons are planned in a cross-curricular manner to complement the topics that we study throughout the years. We endeavour to allow the girls to experience different types of media.

RE/PSHCE - The spiritual development and social awareness of the girls is fostered throughout the year. Hinduism and Christianity form the basis of our RE lessons, while we also focus on topics such as Fair Trade, bullying and stereotypes in PSHCE.

LOGIC - This is a continuation of work which starts towards the end of Year 2. The girls are grouped according to ability and are taught various techniques which are then incorporated into assessment papers, which are regularly given. As the year progresses, more focus is given to test techniques and speed (where appropriate) in readiness for Year 6.

French, Music, ICT, PE, Dance and Swimming are taught by specialists.