Holly Class

Hi Holly Class,

Welcome to our class blog page!

This is a page where we will update you with the things that we have been getting up to in the classroom and all of the amazing work that is going on!

We have been so impressed with how well the children have been transitioning from Reception to Year 1 and cannot wait to continue our learning journey together!

Mrs Leeves

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First Few weeks

Wow! What a busy few weeks we have had settling into school life again, learning all the new routines for Year One and taking on responsibilities such as sorting out our own book bags, having a go at being table captains and being a role model to the new reception children!

In Maths our focus has been counting within 10; counting forwards & backwards, finding 1 more and 1 less and getting to use the maths resources to support our learning. Here is an example of our work:

In Writing we have been looking at the story 'The Gruffalo' by Julia Donaldson. Our focus is labelling using our phonic knowledge to sound the words we want to write. As a class we created word bank of great adjectives to describe the features of the different characters and using our fred talk to sound we indpendently wrote the nouns (wings, nose, etc). Forming the letters the right way, resting on the line and using finger spaces between the words are our targets. Here is an example of our work:

In our foundation subjects, Science has been all about discovering what materials objects are made from and learning their properties such as hard, smooth, rough, etc. We loved sorting the diferent objects into their categories. In History we have been researching and comparing toys from the past and now, the children noticed what was the same and what was different, and discussed what they knew about these toys.

Blog Entry 20/10/2023

Wow! Can you believe it! It is already the end of the first term! We have simply been blown away by how hard the children have worked this term and the level of work they have been able to produce. We know that the transition between Reception and Year 1 is a very big jump, and the children have all risen to the challenge amazingly. We have loved seeing the children explore all the different foundation lessons that we have been teaching and we have really been seeing their creative sides come to life within our art learning.

We have been working hard in every subject and are still really focusing on our letter and number formation and Fred talk to sound out our words and making sure we are confident with this.

Maths

In our Maths lessons we have been thinking about our numbers to 10. This has included practically counting using our cubes and counters, counting on to 10 from any given number and most recently, working out 1 more and 1 less! We have also extended our learning past place value and have been looking at addition and subtraction. Focusing on being able to confidently use bar models, part whole models and practical resources to show our understanding of our learning. The children have shown a fantastic understanding of their number bonds to 10 over the last week and have been exploring this learning in lots of different ways! The children have also been working hard to challenge themselves and answer reasoning questions to further show their understanding and have been answering lots of questions where they must spot the mistake within the question!

English

We have been super busy in our writing lessons over the last few weeks and have been inspired by our history unit of toys to write some captions for them. The children have looked at the books ‘lost in the toy museum’ and ‘toys lost in space’ and have selected pictures to add more detail to base on the story. The children have been really challenging themselves to write more than one sentence and extend their writing using the word 'and'. The children have also been focusing on ensuring their writing is on the line and their letters are all formed correctly. You can see from their work how hard they are working to use Fred talk to sound out their words.

Humanities

We have absolutely loved looking at all the different toys that we have played with, our grown-ups and grandparents and the toys that Victorian children would have played with as well. We have been looking at a range of different artefacts and being historical detectives to help us put these toys on a timeline. We loved to learn about the fact that many of the much-loved toys we played with today were also toys that our parents and grandparents loved to play with as well.

Science

We finished our science unit of ‘materials and their properties’ by creating a big display in the Year 1 corridor to showcase all our learning. We went on a material hunt around the school and found lots of different items that we were able to sort. We used our properties vocabulary and sorted them into a range of different headings – we even had some fantastic conversations about how an item can fit into more than one category! The children were very impressed with the final display and their hard work and absolutely loved going on a material hunt to make it.

Homework

We hope that you have a fantastic and safe half-term, and we look forward to hearing all about it and seeing you back to school on Monday 30^th October.

Blog Entry 24/11/2023

We hope that you all had a fantastic and restful half-term and we cannot believe we are already half way through Autumn 2! The children have been working so hard in all of their lessons and have been producing such amazing high-quality work and we are so proud of them as always. We have settled back into Year 1 really well and have continued to explore lots of different learning within our foundation and core lessons. It has been so lovely to see them asking such thoughtful questions around our foundation learning and extending their learning to more complex sentences and mathematical problems.

We have been working hard in every subject and are really focusing on our number and letter formations as well as our continued use of Fred talk to sound out our words and making sure we are confident with this.

Maths

In our Maths lessons we have been extending our learning within the number 10. The children have been looking at the concept of greater than, less than and equal to and number equations – solving mathematical problems that have a multi-step element to them. The children are becoming really confident in explaining why a number is greater than or less than another number and have been using lots of different practical resources to help them with their learning. We have also extended our learning past addition and subtraction and have also been looking at shapes – extending the children’s learning of 2D shapes in reception to understanding and recognising their 3D friends. On Thursday, we went on a shape hunt around our classrooms and found lots of different items in our class that looked like some of our 3D shapes and then we discussed where we might have seen out 3D shapes outside of the classroom. The children have also been working hard to challenge themselves and answer reasoning questions to further show their understanding and have been answering lots of questions where they must spot the mistake within the question!

English

We have been super busy in our writing lessons over the last few weeks and have been inspired by fairy tales to write a range of character descriptions. The children have looked at ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ and ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’. We have been using our writing lenses to help us create sentences that include ‘and’ and ‘because’ to add extra information. The children have been really focusing on ensuring that they are using Fred Talk within their writing to help them sound out each word, finger spaces, full stops and capital letters. For this first time this term as well, the children published their writing and we have been so proud of how focused they have been on their presentation and have displayed all of their writing within our classrooms. It has been fantastic to see the children continuing to grow in confidence within their writing and how much they are challenging themselves to extend their writing beyond one sentence.

Humanities

In our Year 1 history lessons, we've embarked on an exciting exploration of the iconic toy, Lego! Our little historians have delved into the rich history of Lego, tracing its evolution from its humble beginnings to becoming a global sensation. With colourful bricks in hand, our young learners eagerly dove into the past, discovering key milestones in Lego's journey. Using their creativity and critical thinking skills, the students collaborated to plot significant events onto a timeline, creating a visual narrative of Lego's remarkable story. From the invention of the first plastic interlocking bricks in the 1940s to the development of themed sets and characters, our Year 1 class is not only building with Lego but also constructing a deeper understanding of the world around them through the lens of history. The classroom has become a hub of excitement and discovery as our budding historian’s piece together the building blocks of Lego's captivating past.

The children are really enjoying being historical detectives and learning everything about Lego! We cannot wait to see what other amazing historical artefacts and facts that we can look at and discover within the next four weeks.

Science

In our science adventures, our little scientists have been diving into the fascinating world of sinking and floating. With an abundance of curiosity and excitement, our young learners have become hands-on explorers, embarking on a mission to understand why some objects sink while others float. Armed with an assortment of materials, from feathers to pebbles, our budding scientists conducted experiments to unravel the mysteries of buoyancy. Amazement filled the classroom as they tested and observed, discovering the magic hidden within everyday items. Through these engaging activities, our Year 1 students are not only honing their scientific skills but also cultivating a love for discovery and exploration that will undoubtedly shape their learning journey ahead.

Homework

Thank you again for your continued support with our homework systems in Year 1. We have been so impressed to see all the children bringing in their reading records daily and completing their numbots online as well. We can see how hard you are working and are really impressed. This is just a reminder that the children’s reading records do need to be signed daily by a grown-up and that numbots needs to be completed for 50 minutes each week.

Blog Entry 21/12/2023

As we bid farewell to Autumn 1, it's astonishing to reflect on the incredible progress our Year 1 learners have made in such a short time. The children have embraced every learning opportunity and their enthusiasm and dedication have truly shone through. It's hard to believe how swiftly the weeks have passed and as we approach the end of this term, I find myself immensely proud of each and every one of our young learners.

Maths Mastery with Shapes and Place Value:

In our maths adventures, we delved into the fascinating world of shapes and place value up to 20. The classroom buzzed with excitement as the children engaged in hands-on activities, using a variety of practical resources to solidify their understanding. From recognising 2D and 3D shapes to recognising repeating patterns, their progress has been commendable, laying a strong foundation for future mathematical endeavors.

Creative Writing and Storytelling:

The creativity of our Year 1 writers has flourished as they embarked on the journey of rewriting their own version of the classic tale, "The Three Little Pigs." The children not only demonstrated a keen grasp of storytelling but also honed their spelling and vocabulary skills. Witnessing their unique perspectives and imaginative tales unfold has been a joy, showcasing their growing proficiency in their own writing journeys.

Exploring Lego in Learning:

Our exploration into the world of Lego proved to be both educational and entertaining. The children discovered that Lego is one of the largest traded toys globally and they incorporated this newfound knowledge into their timelines. Beyond the colorful bricks, they learned valuable lessons in collaboration, problem-solving, and creativity, fostering skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Science Adventures with Materials:

In our science lessons, we connected the story of "The Three Little Pigs" to our exploration of different materials. The children delved into the reasons behind the choice of building materials in the tale, pondering why some opt for wood while others choose bricks. This not only deepened their understanding of science but also prompted thoughtful discussions on the practical considerations of durability and affordability in construction.

Celebrating Achievements and Wishing Well:

As we approach the festive season, we take a moment to express our immense pride in the growth and achievements of our Year 1 learners. To all those celebrating, we extend warm wishes for a very merry Christmas and a joyous holiday season. May the upcoming year bring even more opportunities for learning, laughter, and success. We eagerly anticipate welcoming back all our wonderful children on January 9th for the start of another exciting term.

Blog Entry 19/01/2024

Welcome back Holly Class for another exciting term. Please see the video for what we are up to in Year 1 this Spring Term

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SPRING TERM 2

Blog Entry 20/02/2024

We hope that you all had a fantastic and restful half-term and cannot believe we are already half way through the academic year! The children have been working so hard in all of their lessons and have been producing such amazing high-quality work and we are so proud of them as always. The children have settled back into Year 1 really well and have continued to explore lots of different learning within our foundation and core lessons. It has been so lovely to see them asking such thoughtful questions around our foundation learning and extending their learning to more complex sentences and mathematical problems.

Mathematical Marvels:

In mathematics, we've been delving into the fascinating world of place value within 50. Through hands-on, practical activities, we've been building on your children's prior knowledge to deepen their understanding of numbers. From counting collections to creating number bonds, our young mathematicians have been exploring and discovering the power of numbers in their everyday lives.

Creative Writing Wonders:

In English, our budding writers have been showcasing their creativity and imagination. They've crafted captivating explanation texts, detailing the journey of a seed transforming into a majestic sunflower. Additionally, they've embarked on narrative adventures alongside Plop the Owl, learning valuable lessons about bravery and overcoming fears in their delightful stories.

Discovering Our United Kingdom:

Our humanities lessons have been filled with excitement as we've been uncovering the rich tapestry of the United Kingdom. From England's bustling cities to Scotland's breathtaking landscapes, we've been learning about each country and its capital city, immersing ourselves in the diverse cultures and histories that make our nation so unique. Upcoming School Trip: As a reminder, our eagerly anticipated school trip is scheduled for the 1st of March. Details regarding this adventure will be communicated to you via Parentmail in the coming days.

Scientific Explorations:

In science, our focus has been on the wonderful world of plants. We're preparing to kickstart our own gardening project, where we'll be nurturing and measuring the growth of our very own plants over the course of the term. It's an exciting hands-on opportunity for our young scientists to observe and learn about the life cycle of plants firsthand.

Preparing for Phonics Success:

Looking ahead, we want to inform you about the upcoming phonics screening check in June. Rest assured, we'll be providing ample support and guidance to help your children excel in this assessment. Over the next term, we'll be sending home phonics screening practice checks for your children to complete, ensuring they feel confident and prepared for this milestone.

Gratitude and Excitement:

Finally, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for your continued support in your child's educational journey. We're thrilled about the adventures that await us in Spring 2, and we're eager to continue nurturing a love for learning and exploration in our Year 1 classroom.

SPRING TERM

Blog Entry 20/03/2024

As we approach the end of another term filled with exploration and growth, it's time to take a moment to celebrate the incredible journey we've embarked on together in Year One. This term has been brimming with exciting experiences, from delving into the magical world of stories on World Book Day to conducting fascinating science experiments on Science Day. Let's delve into some of the highlights and accomplishments from our time together.

World Book Day Extravaganza:

World Book Day was an absolute delight! The children's faces lit up with excitement as they arrived at school dressed as their favourite book characters, showcasing their boundless creativity and love for literature. Throughout the day, we immersed ourselves in the enchanting tales of Hans Christian Andersen, exploring the timeless classics that have captivated readers for generations. From "The Little Mermaid" to "The Ugly Duckling," the children were mesmerized by these beloved stories and eagerly participated in interactive workshops, bringing the narratives to life through drama, art, and storytelling. It was a joyous celebration of imagination and literacy, igniting a lifelong passion for reading in our young learners.

Science Day Spectacular:

Science Day was an explosion of curiosity and discovery! Dressed in their lab coats and safety goggles, the children embraced their inner scientists as they engaged in hands-on experiments and investigations. From exploring and understanding adaptation and camouflage to observing the growth of plants under different conditions, their enthusiasm for scientific inquiry was palpable. We marvelled at the wonders of the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of science. Through collaborative exploration and critical thinking, the children demonstrated an insatiable thirst for knowledge, proving that the spirit of inquiry knows no bounds.

Mathematics Marvels and English Adventures:

In mathematics, our journey has been filled with excitement as we've delved into the concepts of capacity, volume measurement, length, and height. Through a variety of engaging activities and practical tasks, the children have honed their mathematical skills and developed a deeper understanding of measurement and comparison. From constructing towers with building blocks to estimating the volume of containers, they've embraced every challenge with enthusiasm and determination.

In English, the children have embarked on a creative journey inspired by the delectable world of "Jam Sandwiches." Through imaginative storytelling and descriptive writing, they've crafted their own mouth-watering tales, exploring the power of language and expression. With each pen stroke, they've unleashed their creativity and honed their writing skills, laying the foundation for future literary endeavours. It's been a joy to witness their growth as storytellers and communicators, and we can't wait to see where their imaginations will take them next.

Foundation Learning Exploration:

Our foundation learning has been a voyage of discovery as we've explored the lives and contributions of key influential figures within our local community and beyond. From historical pioneers to modern-day trailblazers, the children have gained insight into the power of perseverance, compassion, and innovation. Through research projects, role-playing activities, and discussions, they've deepened their understanding of the impact that these individuals have had on shaping our world. Additionally, our exploration of plants and growth has sparked a sense of wonder and curiosity, as the children have eagerly tended to their own garden plots and observed the miraculous process of germination and growth.

Upcoming Phonics Screening Check and Gratitude:

As we prepare for the upcoming Phonics Screening Check, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and partnership throughout this term. Your involvement in your child's education is invaluable, and we are immensely grateful for your continued encouragement and dedication. Please remember that all resources and support materials for the Phonics Screening Check are available on Google Classroom, and we encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Wishing You a Joyous Easter Holiday:

As we bid farewell to this term and look ahead to the Easter holiday, we wish you and your families a restful and joyous break with plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration. Thank you once again for your unwavering support, and we look forward to continuing this incredible journey of learning and discovery together in the months to come.

Blog Entry 19/04/2024

Welcome back Holly Class for another exciting term. Please see the video for what we are up to in Year 1 this SummerTerm

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