Welcome to Year 4 - Sycamore

Mr Mali

Learning Update

Maths:
In Year 4, the children have been building on their strong understanding of fractions as they move into learning about decimals, using their knowledge of halves and quarters to confidently convert these into decimal form (for example, recognising that ½ is 0.5 and ¼ is 0.25). They are also developing their understanding of place value beyond the decimal point, exploring tenths and hundredths and how these are represented in columns, which is helping them to see clear links between fractions and decimals and strengthen their overall number sense. In addition, the children have been learning how to round decimal numbers and are beginning to understand how digits change depending on their place value, and it has been wonderful to see them applying their prior knowledge so effectively as they deepen their understanding of decimals.

Literacy:
Year 4 have thoroughly enjoyed exploring the story of Tutankhamun by Patricia Cleveland-Peck, using it as inspiration to deepen their understanding of Ancient Egypt and the work of archaeologists. The children took part in practical discovery activities, carefully excavating artefacts hidden in sand to experience what it might have been like to uncover important historical objects. This hands-on approach helped them to appreciate how discoveries are made and why they are significant in helping us learn about the past. Alongside this, the children developed their writing by creating their own sets of instructions linked to their discoveries, focusing on the use of fronted adverbials, adverbs and imperative verbs to clearly guide the reader. It has been wonderful to see their confidence grow as they bring their learning to life through both practical experiences and engaging written work.

Science:
Year 4 have begun their new science topic on grouping and classifying living things, where they are learning how scientists organise animals based on their characteristics. The children have been exploring the key difference between vertebrates (animals with a backbone, such as mammals, birds and fish) and invertebrates (animals without a backbone, such as insects and worms), using observable features to help them sort and identify different species. They have also been introduced to the idea that classification helps scientists make sense of the wide variety of living things in the world by grouping those with similar traits. Through engaging activities, the children are beginning to use simple classification keys to support their decisions, developing their observation, reasoning and scientific thinking skills

History: 

Year 4 have begun their new history topic on ancient civilisations, where they will be learning about the Sumerians, Egyptians and the Indus Valley civilisation. The children will explore when and where these civilisations developed, as well as the key achievements and inventions that helped them to thrive, such as early writing systems, irrigation and city planning. They will be encouraged to compare these civilisations by identifying similarities and differences in their daily life, inventions and ways of organising society, developing a deeper understanding of how early societies shaped the world we live in today.

Computing:
Year 4 have begun their new computing topic on artificial intelligence, where they are learning about what AI is and how it is used in everyday life. The children will explore how AI systems are created and trained, developing a basic understanding of how computers can recognise patterns and make decisions. They will also discuss the purpose of AI and consider the different ways it can be helpful, such as in technology we use at home and school. Alongside this, there is a strong focus on safety, helping children to understand how to use AI responsibly, question the information it provides and recognise the importance of keeping personal information secure. This topic encourages thoughtful discussions while building their confidence in understanding modern technology.

Looking ahead:

• Literacy: Writing a biography about a famous archaeologist, Howard carter. Whilst using the book, the story of Tutankhamun.

• Maths: Moving onto the topic of Money and Time, ensuring Times Tables Rock Stars (TTRS) exposure is incorporated in some aspect of the day.

• R.E.:  Shabbat ,Learning that it is a special Jewish day of rest, bringing families together to relax, reflect and celebrate.

• P.E.: Fitness with Mr Mali, and Dodgeball with Mrs Bissmire.

Summer Term 2025

Links to Summer Term learning are in the process of being uploaded.