Spring 2010

We hope that you all had an enjoyable Winter break and are pleased to welcome all the children back to school. We would also like to welcome the many new children who have started at DBS for the first time. This letter lists the basic routines adopted in the year group, plus a few reminders to those returning to the school and including a brief description of the work and activities your child will be covering this term.

Routines & Reminders

Houses and Homes - An inspiring start

In this topic we will be finding out about all kinds of different homes. During this first week of our new topic in order to enthuse the children we have planned a trip to Mushriff Park. On our visit to the park the children will see lots of different houses from all around the world.

Communication, Language and Literacy

This term the children will continue to learn and consolidate the work on phonics. They will begin to read and write CCVC (Consonant, Vowel, Consonant, Consonant words e.g frog, flag) and CVCC words (eg went). The children will also begin to learn graphemes (for example ch, th, sh, ur ai) and experience aspects of language such as description, rhythm and rhyme.

As always you can help your child at home by hearing them read regularly, sharing books and working with your child on the weekly homework.

Problem Solving, Reasoning and Numeracy

We will continue with number work relating to ordering, recognising numbers, 1 more/less and explore numbers to do with their own home - their house number, for example. We will also begin work on addition and subtraction.

Knowledge and Understanding of the world

Through the little pigs story we will explore a variety of materials. The children will sort and match materials and think about their qualilities. We will also use research materials to find out more about a variety of homes, including animal homes.

Personal, Social and Emotional Development

The children will learn about the diversity of homes and will have opportunities for empathising with others.They will continue to learn about the need to take care of themselves and, through stories, explore emotions and emotional needs. They will also continue to attend whole school assemblies.

Creative development

This term the children will continue to have the opportunity to take part in creative activities involving the processes of art and craft. There will be opportunities for the children to take part in pretend and dramatic play and to choose their own materials for house building. They will be encouraged to think logically and to explore a range of materials in everyday use.

Physical Development

Children will continue to have a swimming lesson and two P.E lessons a week. They will develop and improve gross and fine motor skills in a range of contexts.

SATs Mock Week- This will take place the week beginning Sunday 31^st January. You can assist your child by ensuring they have the correct equipment (see above) and plenty of early nights so they feel well prepared.

International Week to celebrate the cultural and linguistic diversity of the students, the week beginning 31^st January 2010.  One of the many activities planned is an International Food Court which will take place on Thursday 4th February.

Residential Trip- 7th-11^th February. Please ensure monies and forms are returned by the 21^st January at the very latest. We are really looking forward to it!