Grade 6 Community News

Dear Families,

Can you believe how quickly this term has flown by? We are so proud to reflect on the incredible experiences we've shared and the deep connections we've made across all subjects. 

In Reading, we have immersed ourselves in the period known as the Enlightenment. During our sessions, we have delved deep into the lives and minds of key figures such as Isaac Newton, René Descartes, Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Charles Montesquieu. Through their stories, we've explored how these thinkers dared to challenge the status quo, asking critical questions about governance, human rights, and the natural world that shaped modern thought.

To help consolidate your child's learning and foster engaging discussions at home, consider asking them some questions about this period in history:

• What do the abbreviations CE and BCE stand for?
• Can you describe what happened during the Enlightenment?
• Who was one key figure from this time, and what were their achievements?

Students also read their independent books every day and leave tracks. You might like to ask your child what book they are currently reading and what they are enjoying about it.

In Writing, we've linked our learning about the Enlightenment from our reading to writing by responding to the 'big questions' from this important time. 

• Identifying Key Information: Students have been sifting through the rich details of the Enlightenment, pinpointing the facts, theories, and ideas that have shaped our modern world.
• Expanding Information into Sentences: With key information in hand, students have practised expanding these ideas into well-structured sentences.
• Revising and Elaborating Using the ‘Build Upon It’ Strategy: The 'Build Upon It' strategy has encouraged students to revisit their ideas to add depth and detail to their responses. 

This approach has deepened our understanding of key historical moments and key figures. 

In Maths, we are exploring the world of measurement, focusing on Mass, Volume, and Capacity. Our students are engaging in hands-on activities and tackling real-life problems, working together with their maths buddies to find solutions.

Our Vocabulary words have been selected from our unit on The Enlightenment. Please test your child on what they mean, and how they can use them in a sentence.

Reminders:

• Week 8 Thursday 21st March: Harmony Day
• Week 9 Wednesday 27th March: Gala Day
• Week 9 Wednesday 27th March: Last Day of Term 1 
• Students must be reading each night and logging this in their diaries.