Reception Class News

What a fantastic week we've had, Reception Class! Your enthusiasm and hard work continue to impress me, and I'm so proud of all that you've achieved.

In Mathematical Development, we focused on finding one less than a given number within 5. To help us understand this concept, we used real objects and pictures to represent numbers and explored the idea through role play and story structures, using the phrases "first, then, and now." In our maths journals, instead of rubbing out, we practiced crossing out to show one less pictorially. This method helped us clearly see the changes in quantity and reinforced our learning. You have done a fantastic job building on last week's skills. Well done, Reception!

During Physical Development with Coach Gabriel, we practiced passing, kicking, rolling, and catching. You all showed great progress as we built on these skills and applied them in some of our favourite invasion games. Your teamwork and enthusiasm were fantastic to see, and it's clear you're becoming more confident with each session.

In Understanding the World, we continued to explore the Nativity story. Using a set of pictures, we sequenced the events of the story and discussed which parts we felt were the most important. This led us back to our key question: "Why do Christians celebrate Jesus' birthday?" You shared thoughtful ideas and demonstrated a deep understanding of the significance of the story. It has been lovely to see your growing knowledge and interest in this special celebration.

Today we explored why St. Andrew's Day is celebrated in Scotland. We listened to the story of how Jesus invited Andrew to join his group of disciples and spread the good news about God. We looked into some of the activities people may do to celebrated this day and had a go at some Scottish dancing called Strip the Willow. It certainly made some of us dizzy with all the twirling!

Our Literacy Development lessons focused on continuing our work with the story Star in the Jar. This week, we planned and wrote the problem and ending sections of the story. I was amazed at how independent you were with your writing! You carefully rehearsed your sentences, counted the number of words, and used your "Fred fingers" to sound out each one. You made sure to include capital letters, finger spaces, and full stops, and your neat letter formation is improving every day. Well done for reading back your sentences to make sure they made sense. You are becoming such confident writers, and it's wonderful to see your progress.

In Language and Communication, we enjoyed listening to a variety of Christmas stories throughout the week. It's clear that you know the Nativity story inside out now, you could probably retell it in your sleep! Your storytelling skills are developing beautifully, and I can't wait to hear more of your retellings as we continue to explore this special story.

What a week it's been in Expressive Arts and Design! You all acted your socks off as we recorded our Nativity story. We transformed our classroom into different scenes, from Mary's home in Nazareth to the stable in Bethlehem where Jesus was born. Every one of you played your part brilliantly, and it was clear that you understood the importance of each character in the story. With the help of some technology, we will add your singing and narration to create a special Nativity movie that we can't wait to share with your families. Your hard work and dedication really shone through!

In Personal, Social, and Emotional Development, we had a lovely session with Boris, focusing on the idea that we are all special. We sang a version of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and, as the song ended, we each took turns sharing something special about the person next to us. It was heartwarming to hear such kind and thoughtful words from you all.
As Boris says, 'We are all special.'
Bible reference: A sweet friendship refreshes the soul. Proverbs 27.9

During our wellbeing session, we explored some of the things that we miss, like old toys and clothes that have been donated to charity, even moving house and missing our old home. For our well-being activity, we played an alliteration game, where we named objects that began with the same letter sound. You amazed me by getting from A to Z without a single pause, what a fantastic achievement!

Reception Class, you have had a truly incredible week full of fun, learning, and kindness. Your hard work and positive attitudes continue to brighten our days. Keep shining your light!

Mrs Ward