Autumn term is upon us, and it’s brimming with excitement! Our topic for this term is ‘Houses and Homes’. To kick things off, the children will investigate the location of Cuddington in relation to familiar places. We will delve into diverse houses and homes from around the globe, exploring their unique designs, purposes, and the lives of those who inhabit them.

A key focus will be on homes from the past; children will examine various types of residences and the changes that have transpired within living memory. By using historical sources, they will compare and contrast homes, developing critical thinking skills as they ask and answer questions about history and the technological advancements that have transformed our living spaces.

To further enrich their understanding, the children will embark on an exciting trip to Bekonscot Model Village, where they will appreciate the different architectural styles of homes, including a fascinating look at the Victorian era!

English

In our English lessons, we will be inspired by the brilliant book The Barnabus Project by Eric Fan, a poignant tale that highlights the importance of self-acceptance and friendship. In a world designed for Perfect Pets, Barnabus—part mouse, part elephant—finds himself a Failed Project, hidden away until his yearning for freedom sparks a thrilling adventure with his fellow misfits. This stunning picture book, created by the renowned Fan Brothers alongside Devin Fan, will be at the heart of our writing and reading projects.

We will also delight in The Tear Thief by Carol Ann Duffy. Each night, under the cloak of darkness, the Tear Thief roams, stealing the tears of every child who cries. But what becomes of these tears? This warm and beautifully illustrated story not only evokes deep emotional responses but also sets the stage for insightful discussions. Year 2 will embark on these enchanting literary journeys to produce wonderful writing.

Reading

In our reading sessions, we carefully utilise our high-quality texts to ignite a passion for literature. Each week, we explore essential comprehension skills, nurturing a love of books and instilling a curiosity about words and worlds.

Reading at Home

The children will continue to change their reading book weekly on a Friday. We’ll ensure their choices are suitably challenging. Please read with your child and record their progress. Something new to discover, there’s a reading challenge at the back of their

Reading Record featuring the top 50 Year 2 books—enjoy them together! Rate each book with stars once completed.

Spelling and Phonics

Phonics will continue to be taught daily, supporting our young learners’ literacy journey. Spelling plays a crucial role, as it helps pupils develop a vital connection between letters and their sounds. This practice also enables them to recognise high-frequency common exception words—those tricky words that aren’t easily decoded using phonics alone. We diligently follow the Spelling Shed scheme in school, which provides a fantastic opportunity to investigate and enrich our vocabulary weekly.

To further enhance their learning, there will be weekly spelling homework assigned on the EdShed website every Monday, with completion expected by the following Monday. Please encourage your child to log in and practise regularly.

Maths

This term in Maths promises to be bustling with activity. Year 2 will gain confidence with numbers up to 100 as we learn to count in 2s, 5s, 10s, and even 3s. We’ll also delve into addition and subtraction skills and recognise and explore 2-D and 3-D shapes.

Science

Year 2 embark on engaging lessons in ‘Exploring Everyday Materials’ topic where our children will identify, classify, and describe the everyday materials around them. Through fun activities and investigations, they’ll delve into the properties of wood, plastic, metal, glass, and fabric, discovering the amazing uses of these materials.

Homework

Twice a term a Learning Log activity will be set. It is important that all children complete the homework. Please email us if your child is experiencing any particular difficulties with the completion of homework.

PE

PE will be on a Monday and a Friday, but is subject to change with weather etc. Please send the kit into school every Monday and it will come home on Friday. Please make sure they have the correct kit for each session including: a jumper, jogging bottoms, shorts, t-shirt, trainers and spare socks.

Water Bottles

Please make sure your child brings in a named water bottle daily.

Thank you for your continued support.

Mrs Thomas