Now our second voyage across the expanse of Norse mythology has come to a successful conclusion.  The stories from ‘The Witches Heart’ beguiled us as the mischievous god Loki found more trouble than he was looking for and humans learned the lessons of excessive greed and hubris.  We deepened our study of the Old Norse language and its mysterious runes as well as making our own wooden set of Viking Chess (Kubb).  Our shields are taking shape and swords are being readied for the third and final foray into the Northlands that will culminate in our class play next term.

This week we begin our maths main lesson on fractions, which is, (arguably), even more exciting than Vikings!  Those apples won’t stand a chance as we use our swashbuckling sword technique to carefully cut them into equal parts.  It is likely that parents and carers will be obliged to consume more cakes and pizzas at home in order to fully support their child’s learning!

Term Two has also seen Class Four begin their Human and Animal Studies.  In the last week, Class Four have been looking at animal specialisation and human innovation.  For example, some owls have the capacity to turn their heads 270 degrees, while humans have learned to use mirrors (in cars etc.) to expand their field of vision.  We have also been reflecting on the human capacity for thinking, feeling and willing.  Class Four have been looking at the way in which our distinctiveness as humans gifts us an enormous amount of power, and the way in which that power comes with responsibility.  We have been building on our abilities to use this responsibility well in literacy, learning how to write persuasive texts to advocate for both the human and more-than-human world.  Class Four have also been using Edward de Bono’s ‘Six Thinking Hats’ to think through different perspectives on complex issues.

It has been moving over the past few weeks to witness how far Class Four have come in their growth as active citizens in our school.  This has been particularly evident during daily fitness and class games, where care for each other has begun to consistently eclipse the students’ desire to compete.  This shift is a great credit to the children’s genuine ability to think deeply and self-reflect, and has been a great privilege to witness each day!

May all of our community stay well and warm!

Renee and Ashley