Dear Parents,

I hope this blog post finds you well and full of excitement for the holiday season! Our Year 1 students have been buzzing with energy and enthusiasm, and we're thrilled to share some of the highlights of their recent adventures.

Maths Marvels: Addition and Subtraction Fun!
In the world of maths, our little mathematicians have been diving into addition and subtraction. Using number lines, the children have been putting their problem-solving skills to the test, exploring numbers up to 10. 

Religious Exploration: The Christening Ceremony
In our Religious Education sessions, we've been delving into the rich traditions of Christianity. Specifically, the children have been learning about the Christening ceremony. It's been a time of discovery and understanding as they explore the significance of this special event in the Christian faith.

Scientific Wonders: Building Walls with Various Materials
Excitement is building as our budding scientists prepare for an engaging experiment. We've got plans to construct walls using a variety of materials, and the children will put their creations to the test next week. 

Nativity: Songs, Moves, and Lines!
Our little stars are shining bright as they gear up for the Nativity play. They've been diligently learning songs, perfecting their dance moves, and memorizing lines. Parents, your assistance in helping your child practice their lines will be invaluable. Let's make this Nativity play a magical and memorable experience for all!

Tech Wizards: Making Thoughtful Choices in Computing
In the world of computing, our Year 1 students are becoming savvy tech wizards. They've been making careful choices in the tools they use on our paint program, exploring their creativity while also honing their digital skills. 

Important Reminders: No PE on Tuesday, Wildlife Ambassadors on Thursday
A quick reminder that there will be no PE on Tuesday. However, on Thursday, we're gearing up for an exciting adventure as Wildlife Ambassadors. Please ensure your child is equipped with waterproofs and wellies for this outdoor exploration.

Save the Date: Baarmy Bethlehem Performances
Mark your calendars! The much-anticipated Christmas play performances of "Baarmy Bethlehem" will be held on the 6th (4-5pm) and 8th December (1.45-2.45pm). We can't wait to see you there, cheering on our talented young performers.

As always, thank you for your ongoing support and involvement in your child's learning journey. 
Kind Regards,
Mrs Budiman, Miss Merriott and Miss Luxton

​Year 1 Chestnut Class Blog - November 10, 2023

Dear Parents,

We've had an exciting and productive week in Year 1, filled with lots of learning and discovery. Our Star Learner this week is none other than George! George consistently impresses us with his hard work and dedication in all that he does. Well done, George!

Literacy Adventures:
In our literacy lessons, we've been diving into the enchanting world of storytelling. Our current focus is on the delightful book "I Want My Hat Back." The children have been actively engaged, using their imagination and language skills to explore the story. We've been learning about question marks and using conjunctions such as 'and,' 'but,' and 'so' to enhance our writing.

Mathematics:
Over in our math corner, we've been sharpening our addition and subtraction skills using numbers up to 10. Whole part models and rekenreks have become our trusty tools for understanding and mastering these concepts. 

Geography:
Our geography journey has taken us closer to home as we explore where we live and the local places of worship. Understanding our surroundings is an essential part of appreciating the world, and the children have been enthusiastic investigators in discovering more about their community.

Science:
In the realm of science, we've been on a quest to uncover the properties of materials. The children have been hands-on scientists, exploring how certain materials possess unique properties that make them suitable for specific jobs. It's been a joy to witness their curiosity and excitement during our scientific investigations.

Religious Education:
In our Religious Education lessons, we've delved into the timeless story of Christmas in preparation for our upcoming school nativity. The children are not only learning about the traditions surrounding this special holiday but also embodying the spirit of teamwork and creativity as they prepare for their roles in the nativity play.

Nativity News:
On Friday, the children received their lines for the nativity play. We encourage parents to engage in practicing with their little stars at home. Additionally, we've asked for your support in providing costumes. If you're having trouble finding the perfect outfit, please let us know in advance so we can assist.

Warm regards,
Mrs Budiman and Miss Luxton

​Hello everyone,

We've had an exciting week full of learning and exploration in Year 1. Let's take a closer look at what we've been up to in each subject.

Literacy: Exploring the Adventures of the Naughty Bus
In literacy, we've been diving into the world of "Naughty Bus." We've learned all about sequencing the story using a story map. The story map helps us to remember and retell the story in the right order. We've also been using adjectives and connectives to write diary entries from the Naughty Bus's perspective. It's been so much fun putting ourselves in the shoes of the Naughty Bus and imagining all the naughty things it gets up to!

Maths: Part-Whole Models and Number Sentences
In maths, we've been using part-whole models to understand numbers better. These models help us see how numbers can be broken down into parts. We've also been writing number sentences to practice our addition and subtraction skills. It's like solving puzzles with numbers!

RE: Learning About God Through the Parable of the Lost Son
In Religious Education, we've been exploring the parable of the Lost Son. We've learned about the characteristics of God as shown in this story, such as forgiveness and love. It's been a beautiful way to understand how Christians believe God's love and forgiveness work in their lives. We've also discovered how Christians worship and express their faith through prayer and songs.

Science: Investigating Materials and Their Properties
In science, we had a fantastic time investigating the properties of materials. We wondered which materials can float and which ones will sink. We conducted experiments and made some interesting discoveries. It's been a hands-on adventure!

ICT: Mastering Mouse Skills with Paintz.app
In our ICT sessions, we've been working on our mouse skills using the Paintz.app. It's been a challenge, but we're getting better and better at using the mouse to draw and create beautiful pictures. We might have some budding artists in our class!

History: A Glimpse into Seaside Holidays - Then and Now
Finally, in history, we've been exploring the differences between holidays at the seaside now and in the Victorian times. It's been fascinating to see how things have changed over the years. We've looked at old pictures and heard stories about what a day at the beach was like in the past.

We've had such a great time this week, and we can't wait to see what the next week of learning will bring. Keep up the great work, Year 1!

Stay curious,
Mrs Budiman and Miss Luxton

​Dear Parents and Carers,
Our young learners have been on an exciting journey filled with exploration and discovery. Adaline is our Star Learner this week. Her positive attitude to learning is very impressive and her attention to detail is wonderful to see!

1. Literary Adventures: Naughty Bus and Letter Writing
In our literacy lessons, we've been taking a thrilling ride with the mischievous "Naughty Bus." This delightful story has not only sparked our imaginations but also provided opportunities to craft information sentences and dive into the art of letter writing. Through these activities, we're learning to express our thoughts and ideas in a clear and engaging way.

2. Mathematical Marvels: Addition and Subtraction Within 10
In the realm of mathematics, our Year 1 students are becoming mathematical wizards! We're tackling addition and subtraction within the magical realm of numbers up to 10. With hands-on activities and engaging exercises, we're developing our number sense and problem-solving skills, setting the stage for more complex mathematical adventures ahead.

3. Exploring Faith: The Parable of the Lost Son and Christian Beliefs
In our Religious Education (RE) lessons, we've been delving into the profound parable of the Lost Son. This story has not only captivated our hearts but also led to discussions about forgiveness, redemption, and how Christians regard God. Exploring different perspectives on faith is a valuable part of our learning journey.

4. Scientific Enquiry: Sorting Materials
Science has been a journey of exploration as we dive into the world of materials. We're learning to categorize and sort objects based on the material they are made from. This hands-on exploration is nurturing our scientific curiosity and helping us understand the world around us.

5. Time Travel in History: Entertainment Through Time and Festivals
In our history lessons, we've embarked on a thrilling journey through time, exploring the evolution of entertainment and the role of festivals. From ancient traditions to modern celebrations, we're gaining a deeper appreciation for the way people have come together to have fun and make memories throughout history.

Thank you for joining us on this educational journey, and we look forward to sharing more of our classroom adventures with you in the future!

Kind regards,
Mrs Budiman and Miss Luxton

​Dear Parents and Carers,
Hello and welcome back to another week in Chestnut Class, Year 1. We're excited to share all the amazing things we've been up to in our classroom. This week, we proudly introduce our Star Learner, Daniel, and recount our thrilling visit from the Wildlife Ambassadors. So, let's jump into all the fantastic learning adventures!

Star Learner Spotlight: Daniel
This week, we have the pleasure of highlighting Daniel, our Star Learner. Daniel's consistently excellent behaviour, unwavering focus, and impressive work ethic have made him a true role model in our class. He approaches every task with determination and completes them quickly, setting a high standard for us all. Daniel, your dedication to learning is truly inspiring, and we're lucky to have you in our class!

Connecting with Nature: Visit from the Wildlife Ambassadors
We were in for a real treat this week as the Wildlife Ambassadors paid a visit to Year 1. They shared their knowledge about different bird species and the magic of birdsong. Our classroom transformed into a mini wildlife sanctuary as we learned about the unique characteristics of various birds. We even got to listen to their beautiful songs. What an exciting way to connect with nature!

Literary Adventures: The Fox and the Star
In our literacy lessons, we've been on a journey through the enchanting story of 'The Fox and the Star.' We've been busy sequencing and retelling the story, diving deep into its rich narrative. Using our newfound understanding, we created new blurbs that capture the essence of the tale. Plus, we're bravely using our phonics skills to become great writers. It's a wonderful adventure in the world of words!

Mathematical Marvels: Counting Backwards and Problem Solving
Mathematics has been an adventure in problem-solving and number mastery. We've been practicing counting backwards, a skill that helps us solve problems involving one less. This has not only challenged our mathematical minds but also enhanced our critical thinking abilities.

Creative Computing: Exploring Mouse Control and Christmas Cards
Our computing sessions have been all about mouse control using a paint program. We've been creating digital masterpieces while developing fine motor skills. 

Artistic Explorations: Drawing Objects with Line
In the world of art, we've been exploring the power of lines. We've used lines to draw objects, creating unique and imaginative artwork. Art is all about self-expression, and we're learning to communicate our ideas through our creations. As if that wasn't enough, we've also been busy crafting hand-painted Christmas cards, adding a touch of creativity to the festive season.

Conclusion:
As we conclude this week's blog, we want to express our gratitude for the Wildlife Ambassadors who brought the wonders of nature to our classroom. Our journey in Chestnut Class, is filled with excitement, learning, and growth. Thank you for joining us on this adventure, and we look forward to sharing more of our classroom experiences with you next time.
Kind regards,
Mrs Budiman and Miss Luxton

​Class Blog
It's been an exciting and educational week in Year 1, and we can't wait to share all the fantastic things we've been up to. This week, we are especially proud to introduce our Star Learner, Grace Trask, who exemplifies friendship and leadership in our classroom. Join us as we explore our adventures in Literacy, Mathematics, History, and Computing.
Star Learner Spotlight: Grace Trask
We are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Grace Trask, our Star Learner of the week! Grace embodies the qualities of a great friend, role model, and learner. Her kindness, helpfulness, and enthusiasm light up our classroom. Grace's positive attitude is infectious, and we are lucky to have her as part of our Chestnut Class family.

Literacy Adventures: Writing Lost Posters with Punctuation and Adjectives.
In our Literacy lessons, we've been on a creative journey crafting lost posters. But these aren't your ordinary posters! We've been practicing using different punctuation marks like full stops, question marks, and exclamation marks to make our sentences pop. Additionally, we're deepening our understanding of adjectives, learning how to make our descriptions more vivid and exciting.

Mathematical Explorations: Representing Numbers in Various Ways.
Mathematics has been a blast as we've been representing numbers in multiple ways. We're using objects, numerals, and words to grasp the concept of numbers better. These hands-on activities are helping us build a strong foundation in numeracy and prepare for more advanced mathematical concepts.

Time Travel in History: Entertainment Through the Ages.
Our History lessons have transported us through time as we dive into the fascinating world of entertainment through the ages. We've begun to explore how toys have evolved over time and discovered how different they were in the past. It's like having a time machine in the classroom!

Embracing Technology in Computing.
In our computing lessons, we've been delving into the exciting world of Technology. We're learning about the various forms of technology that shape our lives today. Understanding how technology works and its role in our daily lives is essential in our ever-changing world.

As we wrap up this week's blog, We're so proud of Grace Trask, our Star Learner, and the incredible progress we're making in Literacy, Mathematics, History, and Computing. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we can't wait to share more of our adventures with you next week!
Kind regards,
Mrs Budiman and Miss Luxton

​Dear Parents and Carers,
Greetings and welcome to our year 1 classroom blog! As the school year unfolds, we're excited to share the wonderful experiences and learning adventures that have marked our fresh start in year 1. Join us as we delve into the captivating worlds of literacy, mathematics, art, and physical education, all while fostering a love for learning and discovery.

Exploring Foxes and Stars in Literacy:
In our literacy lessons, we've been immersing ourselves in the enchanting world of foxes and stars. These themes serve as a prelude to our upcoming unit of work inspired by the book 'The Fox and the Star.' Through engaging stories, discussions, and creative activities, we've developed a deeper understanding of foxes' behaviours and habitats, as well as the mysteries of the starry night sky. This exploration has sparked our curiosity and ignited our imaginations, setting the stage for exciting literary adventures ahead.

Mastering Mathematics: Assessments and Beyond:
In the realm of mathematics, we've been hard at work, completing assessments. While assessments are important, we understand that learning is an ongoing journey. With a solid foundation in place, we're ready to tackle new challenges and embrace the world of numbers with confidence and enthusiasm.

Artistic Adventures with Line and Bridget Riley:
Art class has been a place of wonder and exploration as we've dived into the world of lines and the artistry of Bridget Riley. Using string as our medium, we've created dynamic and intricate patterns that have left us in awe of the power of lines in art. This exploration extended to the use of wax crayons, where we ventured into creating a vibrant seascape. Our budding artists have embraced the opportunity to express themselves through art, discovering the joy of creativity.

PE Adventures with the Saints Coach:
One of the highlights of our week has been our exciting PE sessions with the Saints Coach. The children have enthusiastically participated in various physical activities, developing their coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship. These sessions not only promote physical fitness but also nurture important life skills such as communication, collaboration, and perseverance. The smiles on their faces after each session are a testament to the fun and learning that takes place on the field.

As we wrap up this blog post, we're filled with excitement and anticipation for the journey that lies ahead in year 1. We look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you in the coming months as we continue to nurture young minds and foster a love for learning in our year 1 classroom. Thank you for being a part of our educational journey.

Kind regards, 
Mrs Budiman and Abbie Luxton

​Dear Parents and Carers,
Bethany is our star learner this week she has shown great listening skills and attention to detail producing some outstanding writing this week. Bethany, has consistently demonstrated enthusiasm, dedication, and a thirst for knowledge. Bethany's passion for learning inspires us all, and we celebrate her achievements as a role model for our class.

Exploring the World of Adjectives:
Language is a powerful tool, and adjectives add depth and color to our communication. In our literacy lessons, we have been immersing ourselves in the world of adjectives. We have discovered how adjectives describe and enhance nouns, making our writing more vivid and engaging. Through descriptive storytelling, we have unleashed our imaginations and crafted captivating sentences filled with adjectives.

Unveiling the Magic of Place Value:
Recently, we have been diving into the concept of place value. We have explored numbers up to 100, learning how each digit's position determines its value. Through hands-on activities, games, and engaging discussions, we have strengthened our understanding of place value and how it forms the foundation of mathematical operations.

Journey into the Animal Kingdom: Mammals and Reptiles:
Science has taken us on an awe-inspiring adventure through the animal kingdom, focusing on mammals and reptiles. We have learned how mammals, such as dolphins and elephants, nurse their young and have warm-blooded bodies. In contrast, reptiles, like snakes and turtles, lay eggs and have scaly skin. 

Exploring the Zones of the Sea and Its Benefits:
Geography has guided our exploration of the vast and mysterious sea. We have dived deep into the different zones of the ocean, from the sunlit surface to the pitch-black abyss. We have discovered how these zones support diverse ecosystems, with marine life adapted to each zone's conditions. Additionally, we have learned about the sea's significance to human life, including its role in transportation, food production, and climate regulation. The ocean truly holds immense value and importance to our world.

As I conclude this post, we hope you have enjoyed this glimpse into our classroom adventures. From the magic of adjectives and the wonders of place value to the exploration of mammals, reptiles, and the vast sea, our journey of learning continues to unfold. Thank you for being a part of our classroom community
Kind regards,
Mrs Budiman

Dear Parents/Carers,
We have had a very busy week this week, catching up on our History, learning some Life Skills and making sure we know our sounds in Phonics. This week's start learner is Millie who has done a phenomenal job with her reading and phonics learning.
Literacy
Please continue to read with your child everyday for at least 5 minutes. We do as much as we can in school but time is limited and we have many tasks to complete with the children.  The children are gaining confidence in spelling so please continue your good work at home practising for the weekly tests.
Maths
Next week we will continue our work on addition and subtraction within 20 to include doubles, finding the difference, related facts and missing number problems.
History
In History we have studied the lives of Bessie Coleman, Ernest Shackleton, Valentina Tereshkova, Neil Armstrong and next week we will finish our unit looking at the life of Sir Ranulph Fiennes.
Have a great weekend.

Kind regards,
Rebecca Budiman