OPTIMISTIC OAK
Welcome to our Year 6 page!
Who's who?
Welcome to the Year 6 class page! We are thrilled to embark on this exciting journey alongside your children as they navigate their final year of primary school. Allow us to introduce ourselves: I am Miss L Thurman, the class teacher, and supporting me is Mrs. Antcliffe, our highly skilled Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA). With years of experience teaching Year 6, we are both deeply passionate about guiding students through this pivotal stage of their education. Year 6 is a significant milestone for children, and our goal is to ensure they have the most enriching and fulfilling experience possible before they transition to secondary school. Together, we are dedicated to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, ultimately becoming 'secondary school ready'. We look forward to an amazing year of growth, learning, and memorable experiences ahead!
A Holistic Approach
In Year 6, we're committed to providing a holistic approach to education, ensuring our students are well-prepared for the transition to secondary school. We believe in offering a wide range of experiences, including exciting trips and adventures. Transition planning is paramount, and we work closely with local secondary schools to facilitate meetings and additional visits for those who may need them. In the summer, we implement the "Be Awesome Go Big" Programme, covering essential topics such as resilience, risk-taking, and friendship dynamics. Our residential trip to Walesby plays a crucial role in building resilience and independence, with activities like raft building, rock climbing, and forest discos fostering personal growth. Throughout the year, students also enjoy various school trips, from cinematic outings to historic tours and encounters with birds of prey. Get ready for a year filled with unforgettable experiences and invaluable preparation for the journey ahead!
Autumn Term
In Autumn, our Year 6 class dives into two captivating science topics. During Autumn 1, we explore the fascinating world of living things and their habitats. Inspired by the work of Carl Linnaeus, we delve into classification systems, categorising a menagerie of peculiar creatures. Then, in Autumn 2, our focus shifts to the beating heart of biology with the question, "What gets our blood pumpin'?" Here, we unravel the mysteries of the circulatory system, dissecting its components and understanding its vital role. Alongside our scientific inquiries, we embark on literary adventures, drawing connections with the thought-provoking novel Pig Heart Boy. Through engaging activities, we craft explanation texts on the circulatory system and engage in balanced arguments pondering the question, "Should organ donation be compulsory?" Get ready for an autumn brimming with exploration and discovery!
Spring Term
In the Spring term, our Year 6 class embarks on captivating journeys through both history and science. In Spring 1, we tackle the thought-provoking question, "Should black history be important to everyone?" Through a local history study, we uncover the remarkable stories of Eric Irons and George Africanus, pivotal figures in Nottingham's black history. Exploring legislative impacts and significant events like the Bristol Bus boycott, we draw parallels to the renowned Montgomery Bus Boycott led by Rosa Parks. Engaging in biography writing about Eric Irons and crafting vivid settings inspired by Benjamin Zephaniah's "Windrush Child," we delve deep into the rich tapestry of black history. Then, in Spring 2, we journey into the realm of science, delving into the groundbreaking theories of evolution pioneered by Charles Darwin. From the iconic Galapagos Islands to understanding the mechanisms of adaptation and inheritance, we unravel the mysteries of life's diversity and our place within it. Get ready for a Spring filled thought-provoking insights!
Summer Term
As we step into the Summer term, Year 6 is ready to shine! In Summer 1, our focus is on preparation for SATs, as we strive to be the best versions of ourselves. Once the assessments are behind us, we delve into the fascinating world of "Light." Through engaging investigations, we explore the mysteries of how light travels, its impact on our vision, and the science behind shadows, drawing upon our knowledge from previous years. Concurrently, we embark on literary adventures with "Clockwork" by Philip Pullman and "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley, using these captivating stories to inspire our own monster creations and descriptive writing. Then, in Summer 2, our historical journey takes us to the ancient civilization of Benin. Utilizing "Children of the Benin Kingdom" by Dinah Orji, we immerse ourselves in the rich history and culture of this remarkable era. Get ready for a Summer term packed with learning, creativity, and exploration!
Keep Calm - it's only SATS!
As experienced Year 6 educators, we understand the anxieties that can accompany SATs assessments. That's why we're dedicated to supporting our students every step of the way. From the start of the year, we implement small group interventions to target specific areas and fill any knowledge gaps. As Spring 2 approaches, morning and evening interventions are introduced to further address individual needs. Weekly homework assignments ensure consistent revision, while our commitment to quality first teaching ensures that every day is an opportunity for learning and growth. Rest assured, we're here to guide and empower our students for success in their SATs and beyond.
Maths websites that are useful for revision:
SATS - Key Stage 2 Arithmetic (mathsbot.com) - this will link you to an arithmetic test that you can refresh over and over again (it even marks it for you)!
Corbettmaths – Videos, worksheets, 5-a-day and much more - this website has SO much to offer, there's videos, worksheets and questions for specific areas of maths for you to revise.
Maths lesson units for Year 6 students - Oak National Academy (thenational.academy) - this website has full lessons for you to watch and use each broken down into specific areas of maths.
Reading websites that are useful for revision:
Log in | ReadTheory - all of the children in year 6 have a log in (this was sent home) for this website. The children are able to access a range of small extracts of texts to access.
Epic Login (getepic.com) - use our class code to access thousands of books for the children to read! Some of the books even have quizzes at the end.
Grammar websites that are useful for revision:
Year 6 - Inspiring grammar lessons - Natural Curriculum - this website has entire lessons on elements of the Year 6 grammar curriculum, linked to all things natural!
English Grammar lesson units for Year 6 students - Oak National Academy (thenational.academy) - this website will lead you to entire lessons, including explanations and activities for you to use.
SpellingFrame - all children have a log-in to spelling frame. The children can choose a spelling rule and revise this with audio support!
Spelling - Topmarks Search - spelling games
Spellbound - fun english game for kids by GridClub - 3 spelling activities that get progressively harder, challenge yourself with the 9-12 words and the wicked word game.
