Autumn 1

Theme Learning Question:

What was the Space Race and why was it a turning point in History?

Curriculum Coverage:

In Maths, we will be looking at Place Value and numbers up to 10,000,000 as well as using and applying our understanding of the four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division). 

In English, our text is, 'Rain Player'. We will recap our application of writing settings and character descriptions as well as using direct speech. In reading lessons, we will be enhancing our understanding of inference and explanation skills.

In Science, we are looking at Earth and Space. Children will learn that the universe contains everything in existence, including all the energy and matter that there is. They will learn that the universe is in motion, constantly expanding, which is what led astronomers (scientists who study outer space) to theorise how the universe began: The Big Bang Theory. Children will learn that gravity is a force that holds objects together, the bigger the objects the more significant the force of gravity. They will learn that the Earth’s gravity holds us to the Earth’s surface, and the Sun’s gravity holds the Earth in orbit around it. Children will learn that the Sun is at the centre of our Solar System. They will learn about the planets in our solar systems, including both the rocky planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars), and the gas planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune). Children will learn that the Moon is the Earth’s natural satellite. They will also learn about the phases of the moon, and how depending on the position of the Sun, we see all, part or none of the Moon. The children will learn about our galactic neighbourhood, and how our solar system is just a small part of our universe. Overall, this unit builds on the children’s substantive knowledge of motion, force, energy, matter and space, which will be further built upon in later secondary schooling.

Within our History lessons, we are exploring the Space Race. This will take us on a journey of exploration, tragedy and determination. We will be looking at the key events as the Space Race unfolds and the injustices of certain groups not being allowed to join in. We will also be looking at the impact of animals being the first animals in space. 

RE sees us looking at a World religion - Judaism. We will be looking at the rituals, ceremonies and places of worship to gain an understanding of what it is like to be Jewish.