What We’re Learning This Term – Class 1

Welcome to an exciting new term in Class 1! Our theme is Castle Keepers, with our key question: “Why did the Normans build castles?” As part of the Year of the Normans, we will explore the story of the Normans and discover what castles can tell us about the past.

We will investigate Orford Castle, using historical sources, maps and photographs to explore life in Norman times, how castles were defended and how our local area has changed over time. We will also develop our map and fieldwork skills.

In Science, we will investigate everyday materials and their properties, before designing and building our own strong castles. We
will also observe seasonal changes as part of our Seasonal Science Observation Programme.

In Art and DT, we will be inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry, exploring how pictures can tell stories. We will also investigate mechanisms, including drawbridges and trebuchets, and apply our learning to create our own working models.

Our Forest School sessions will involve teamwork, problem-solving and den building using natural materials.

We will also develop our understanding of healthy lifestyles, friendships, families and keeping safe, alongside our Computing and
wider curriculum learning.

We will bring our learning together at the end of term with our Fabulous Finish – a Medieval Castle Celebration, where we will share
our learning, enjoy medieval music and take part in a feast fit for a castle!