Autumn Term
English:
We look forward to an exciting Autumn Term in Fir Class as we explore our new class text: Stone Age Boy by Satoshi Kitamura.
The story follows a young boy who, while exploring in the woods, falls into a mysterious hole and finds himself in the Stone Age. There, he meets a Stone Age boy who shows him how people lived long ago – hunting, making fire, building shelters and using simple tools. The modern boy learns about the challenges and creativity of prehistoric life. After spending time together, he returns to his own time, bringing with him new appreciation and understanding of life in the past.
It’s a charming tale about curiosity, friendship, and learning about history through experience.
Most of our writing work will come from our class text, resulting in a combination of narrative, persuasive writing, imaginative fiction and non-fiction information texts.
Our creative writing is underpinned with regular practice of spellings and grammar. We look at spellings which have common patterns and use a range of strategies to learn and recall these. Grammar work will link directly into the writing, to make sense of sentence structures, tenses and tools to make our writing that bit more purposeful, creative, engaging and exciting.
Mathematics
This term, our Year 3 and 4 children will follow the White Rose Hub scheme, covering a range of essential maths topics. They will begin with Place Value, developing a secure understanding of numbers and their values, before moving on to Addition and Subtraction, learning strategies to solve increasingly complex problems. The term will also include Multiplication and Division, helping children strengthen their times tables knowledge and apply it in practical contexts. Across all units, children will focus on problem-solving and reasoning skills, building confidence and fluency in their maths learning.
Alongside these, we place particular emphasis on our multiplication tables, partly in preparation for the national ‘Multiplication Tables Check’ in June, partly because multiplication tables underpin all the other aspects of mathematics.
TT Rockstars and Hit the Button are excellent resources where children can practise their multiplication tables and number facts.
Science
This term, Year 3 and 4 will explore Rocks in Chemistry, learning about different types, how they form, and their uses. In Physics, they will study Sound, discovering how it is made, travels, and how we hear it. Through hands-on activities and experiments, children will develop their scientific skills, ask questions, and record observations, building a deeper understanding of the world around them.
R.E
This term in RE, Year 3 and 4 will explore key Christian beliefs. In “What do Christians learn from the Creation Story?”, children will consider what the story teaches about God, the world, and human responsibility. In Incarnation/God – “What is the Trinity?”, they will investigate the Christian belief in God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, reflecting on how this shapes faith and daily life.
Geography
This term, Fir Class will explore The Stone Age (4500 BC – 2400 BC), focusing on settlements and landscapes. Children will locate Skara Brae on maps of the UK and the seven continents and compare it to Stonehenge. They will study Stone Age settlements, examine how humans have used the Earth’s resources over time, and consider sustainable use today. Map skills will include keys, symbols, scales, four-figure grid references, and creating maps and journey plans from school to Hucknall Leisure Centre.
History
In History, Fir Class will study The Stone Age (4500 BC – 2400 BC), focusing on the Neolithic period. Children will place the Stone Age on a timeline, explore primary evidence from Skara Brae, and learn about the significance of its discovery in 1850. They will examine changes during the Neolithic, such as farming and settlements, and consider how these developments shaped human society and continue to impact life today.
French
This term, Fir Class will use Language Angels to develop their French language skills. Children will learn basic vocabulary and phrases, focusing on greetings, numbers, colours, and classroom instructions. Through games, songs, and interactive activities, they will practise speaking, listening, reading, and writing in French, building confidence and enjoyment in learning a new language.
Physical Education
In PE, Fir Class will develop their skills in Hockey and take part in Cross Country/Orienteering activities to build fitness and teamwork. In Autumn 2, children will focus on Table Tennis and Basketball, learning sport-specific techniques, improving coordination and enjoying competitive and cooperative games.
Computing
This term, computing lessons learning focusses on exploring the Internet. Children will learn how the internet works, how information is shared online and how to use it safely and responsibly. They will develop research skills, understand online communication and explore the importance of digital safety in everyday life.
Music
Children will explore music through Sing Up, learning and performing “This Little Light of Mine” to develop singing, rhythm, and expression. Children will also work on “My Fantasy Football Team”, creating and performing their own musical compositions inspired by football, exploring rhythm, melody, and teamwork.
PSHE
This term, Fir Class will focus on respectful behaviour, including self-respect, courtesy, and politeness, as well as appreciating differences and similarities. Children will explore different jobs and skills, challenge stereotypes, set personal goals, and learn how to use and keep money safe, building confidence and independence.
Design and Technology
In DT, Fir Class will explore electrical systems by designing and making a light-up Christmas decoration. Children will develop practical skills in planning, constructing, and safely using simple circuits while combining creativity with technical understanding.
Art and Design
In Art, children will explore painting through creating Cave Paintings. Children will develop their understanding of tones and shades, experiment with complementary and tertiary colours, and use these techniques to create visually engaging and historically inspired artwork.
