This week in Year 5, we've completed The Explorer, a novel that the children have truly embraced. From answering comprehension questions with great accuracy to asking insightful questions and making thoughtful predictions, the enthusiasm for the book has been remarkable. It has sparked deep discussions and a real passion for reading.

In line with our geography topic on Brazil, we have delved further into the wonders of the Amazon Rainforest. We've explored the impacts of deforestation and, through gathering facts and conducting research, the children have written powerful and persuasive speeches to raise awareness about this critical issue. Their speeches have been engaging, emotive, and captivating—showcasing their growing understanding of the topic.

To further explore Brazil’s rich culture and natural beauty, we studied the work of the Brazilian artist Beatriz Milhazes. The children loved discovering her vibrant artwork and discussing the ways it reflects the country’s culture and landscape.

Now, let's hear from Evie S and Remy in 5MC as they recount the highlights of the week:

English

This week in English we have been learning about persuasive writing. To get some inspiration, we listened to a few speeches, which included Emma Watson’s gender equality speech, Greta Thunberg’s speech on climate change, as well as ‘I had a dream’ by Martin Luther King. We are writing about deforestation because it’s a big and important topic to raise awareness about.

Maths

In maths, we have been learning about negative numbers. Any number below zero is a negative number whereas any number above zero is a positive number. We have been able to count through 0 in ones and multiples as well as compare and find the difference.

Science

In science, we have learnt about gestation periods in mammals. We found out that the shorter the mammal’s life, the shorter the gestation period. Did you know an Asian elephant is pregnant for almost 2 years!

Geography

In geography, we learnt about climate impact and physical processes that affect the landscape. For example, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, landslides and erosions. We have also been learning about the impact of deforestation in the Amazon rainforest.

PE

In PE, as you know, we have been playing tennis and hockey. We played short hockey matches and had a mini-tournament. We refined our dribbling with the ball as well as picking up the pace by jogging with the ball. In tennis, we have been learning how to increase our rally to each other.

Art

We explored the Brazilian contemporary artist, Beatriz Milhazes. Beatriz Milhazes continues to live and work in Rio de Janeiro. Her art studio is situated near the ocean, botanical gardens and Tijuca forest. The colours and shapes of the natural world have inspired her artwork for many years. We observed her artwork and created a word bank including: vibrant, striking, colourful, patterned, geometric shapes, eye-catching, powerful, strong, unique, exquisite, iconic and abstract.