Numeracy and Mathematics
We continued to carry out our baseline assessments in numeracy and mathematics and use this information along with the Second Level benchmarks to set our targets for term 1. These had to be realistic, achievable and focused specifically on the areas in which we to strengthen our work. Next week, we will begin consolidating our learning of written methods of addition and subtraction. We have already spoken about the importance of evidencing our strategies through written working and understand that we will gain credit for this, even if our final answer is incorrect.
Literacy and English
Our key focus in Literacy and English this week was to carry out our first piece of extended writing in our new jotters. We wrote a reflected on our summer holidays, describing and sharing our experiences. In doing so, we attempted to make the context and events clear through the use of detail whilst describing our thoughts and feelings about our experiences. Vocabulary and interesting word choice was also used to engage our readers. From Mr Logan’s feedback and our self-assessments, we were able to see what our targets should be in writing. Mr Logan has challenged all of us to pay particular attention to our layout and presentation in any written work throughout the year. Next week, we will start guided reading and studies of fictional texts along with planning and creating and imaginative piece of writing based on a picture stimulus.
Health and Wellbeing
This week we were introduced to the 5 point scale, a new system we are using across school to teach and track the mental, social and emotional wellbeing of all children on a daily basis. Each morning when we register and throughout the day in P7a, we will be asked to rate ourselves from 1-5 depending on how we are feeling. Rating ourselves as a 1 would suggest we are happy and calm, whereas a 5 would mean things have become out of control or we are angry. We are aware that our feelings and reactions can change quickly depending on what is happening around us, but we should be able to express our feelings and talk about them if need be. P7a completed their own 5 point scales to identify what each number may ‘feel like’ and ‘look like’ for them as well as ‘chill skills’ that can be used to better manage our emotions. This is something we will be speaking about in class throughout the year as we try to foster and strengthen mental wellbeing. It is not always possible to enjoy good mental health, but if this happens we know that there is support available. Next week we will identify key adults that form our support network.
In P.E, we took part in our first session of basketball to develop our ball handling and decision making skills. Mr Logan was incredibly impressed with our sequential thinking as we demonstrated the ability to memorise and perform varied movements whilst in control of the basketball. We recapped on the 3 ways in which we can pass the ball and refined these skills in some partnership working activities. At the end of our session, we played in some attack v defence scenarios to better our cue recognition and decision making skills. This means we were to be pro-active when making decisions, for example, anticipating where to move before the ball arrives. We have been entered into West Lothian’s basketball league this session, so hopefully some members of P7a will be given the opportunity to participate in competitive games.
Learning Across the Curriculum
We have continued to support our P1 Buddies this week and worked with them on Friday to complete their wellbeing questionnaires. We explained in child friendly language to them what is means to be safe, healthy, active, nurtured, achieving, respected, responsible and included.
Throughout P7 we will be given many opportunities to develop our leadership skills. We decided what roles we would like to take forward on Wednesday and completed application forms specific to these roles. Some of us even agreed to take on the additional responsibility of House Captain. From sports leaders to digital leaders and newspaper writers to numeracy champions, we will all be finalising our remits next week before starting to develop these areas across school. Our House Captains have received their badges and are ready to begin carrying out their duties. Stay tuned for some news about exciting changes to our House Points system in school!
Finally, we made our way out to the Outdoor Classroom to bury our time capsule. This will remain untouched until Friday 28th June 2019 when we will dig it up and reflect on what is sure to be a fantastic final year at Springfield Primary School!
On Friday there was just enough time to do some pop art self-portraits before our ‘Safe’ assembly with Miss Baillie. Have a look at some examples of this below:
Have a great weekend everyone!
P7a and Mr Logan
