Glapthorn C.E. Lower School Curriculum Leaflet

Topic: London

Spring Term 2015

Overview
National Curriculum
Literacy: As writers, we will create imaginative stories about the adventures of Paddington’s nephew in London. We will write instructions of how to make marmalade sandwiches. We will explore the traditional tale of “The Three Little Pigs” and write our own version. As readers, we will listen to, read and discuss a wide range of texts, including diary accounts and recounts of historical events. As speakers, we will prepare, rehearse and present information to an audience. We will listen to a range of poetry and build up a repertoire of poems to recite.
Numeracy: As mathematicians, we will use language to describe position, direction and movement in relation to finding our way around the U.K. We will research and collect data about weather and organise it into tables. We will consider temperature and how it can be measured, creating charts from data gathered. We will produce graphs of favourite London landmarks and later use them to retrieve information. We will read timetables, plot routes and use money appropriately in role-play situations.
Science: As scientists, we will distinguish between an object and the material from which it is made. We will describe physical properties of a variety of everyday materials. We will find out the advantages and disadvantages of using straw, wood and bricks for different structures.
Art and design: As artists, we will mix paint to create a range of “hot” colours. We will evaluate paintings of “The Great Fire of London” from a variety of artists. We will research Peggy Fortnum and re-create some of her pencil sketches of Paddington Bear.
Computing: As computer technologists, we will use data handling programs to present information about the capital cities of the U.K. We will navigate our way around a range of websites exploring maps, places and climates. We will create personal digital postcards of London.
Design and Technology: As designers, we will explore structures, materials and buildings. We will plan, create, refine and evaluate a model house.
Geography: As geographers,we will locate and research the human and physical features of the capital cities of the United Kingdom.
History: As historians, we will use a range of sources to investigate “The Great Fire of London” and its impact and significance on modern day London.
Languages: As linguists, we will speak French and consolidate prior learning. We will continue to develop new vocabulary related to our topic of capital cities and find out about Paris.
Music: As musicians, we will sing songs and learn traditional action rhymes such as “Oranges and Lemons” and “Ring, a ring of roses”. We will use instruments to accompany traditional cockney songs and begin to use symbols to portray sounds we have made.
Personal Development: As citizens, we will explore present day London and contemplate the future. We will ask and answer thought provoking questions, such as – How can London stop wasting its waste? Should London plant more trees? Are faith schools good for London?
Physical Education: As dancers, we will respond through movement to different moods in music. As gymnasts, we will demonstrate strong structures using our bodies. In games, we will continue to develop our skills based on a city theme.
Religious Education: As theologians, we will be exploring and sharing our ideas about God. We will consider what this concept might mean for Christians.
Curriculum Drivers that enrich our curriculum
Outdoor Learning
As outdoor learners, we will… / Our Community and Beyond
As members of our local community and beyond, we will… / Attitude to Learning: Teamwork, Independence, Problem Solving
In developing our personal skills, we will…
Build structures using straw, sticks and bricks.
Create and use London underground tube lines in the sandpit.
Observe cloud cover, collect rainfall and record the temperature in our weather station.
Measure out rainfall amounts from around the world in the water trough.
Re-enact “The Fire of London” using small world play. / Connect with people and concerns of modern day London by visiting “The World City” gallery at The Museum of London.
Travel back in time and experience life at the time of “The Great Fire of London” at The Museum of London.
Experience multicultural London on a sightseeing tour of the city.
Present our work to peers, teachers, parents and governors. / Work collaboratively, sharing our ideas and working as part of a group.
Take responsibility for our own belongings.
Listen to instructions carefully and complete some tasks on our own.
Develop a “have a go” attitude and persevere with problem solving tasks.
Homework Opportunities
  • Research capital cities of the U.K. using books, the internet and personal experiences. Explore the human and physical features of each locality, investigate weather patterns and plan the shortest route to get there.
  • Find out about “The Great Fire of London” and discuss the significance of this disaster.
  • Read Paddington Bear books and bring them into school to share with the class. Research Michael Bond, the author of Paddington Bear books. Create a scrapbook in the style of Paddington, about your own adventures. We would love to see them!
Useful websites:
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