What a whirlwind of a week it has been in Dosbarth Draenog! As we reflect on our busy days, it’s clear that we’ve packed in a lot of learning, creativity, and fun. Let’s dive into the highlights of our week!

To start with, we wrapped up our unit on perimeter and area in maths. The children have shown tremendous enthusiasm and understanding as we explored these concepts. We began by revisiting the definitions of perimeter and area, ensuring everyone was clear on the differences. The students then engaged in hands-on activities, measuring the dimensions of our classroom and calculating the perimeter of various shapes. It was delightful to see their faces light up as they realised how these mathematical principles apply to real-world scenarios, such as planning a garden or designing a room. The week culminated in a fun challenge where they created their own shapes and calculated their area and perimeter, fostering a sense of achievement and confidence in their mathematical abilities.

In English, we finished writing our instructions for building a suspension bridge. This project allowed the children to combine their writing skills with their understanding of engineering concepts. They worked collaboratively, brainstorming ideas and drafting clear, step-by-step instructions. It was heartening to witness their creativity as they incorporated diagrams and illustrations to enhance their instructions. The final pieces were not only informative but also engaging, showcasing their ability to communicate effectively. We even had a mini-presentation session where students shared their instructions, receiving feedback from their peers. This exercise not only honed their writing skills but also built their confidence in public speaking.

This week also marked the beginning of our passion project journey. Each student was encouraged to develop a question that ignites their curiosity and passion. The excitement in the classroom was palpable as they brainstormed topics ranging from environmental issues to space exploration. We discussed how to formulate questions that are open-ended and encourage deeper thinking. The children are now in the process of researching their topics, and I can’t wait to see the diverse range of projects they will create. This initiative is designed to foster independent learning and critical thinking, skills that are essential for their future endeavours.

In addition to our core subjects, we embarked on creating a number of different Scratch challenges. The students have been exploring coding through the Scratch platform, and it has been wonderful to see their creativity come to life. They designed games, animations, and interactive stories, applying their knowledge of coding concepts in a playful and engaging way. The collaborative spirit in the classroom was evident as they shared tips and tricks with one another, fostering a supportive learning environment. This experience not only enhances their technical skills but also encourages teamwork and problem-solving.

To top off our busy week, we had the exciting opportunity to participate in a BBC filming morning for our version of the popular show, The Traitors. The students were buzzing with excitement as they took on various roles, showcasing their acting talents and creativity. It was a fantastic way to blend learning with entertainment, and the children embraced the challenge wholeheartedly. The experience not only allowed them to express themselves but also taught them about teamwork and collaboration in a fun and dynamic setting. I am sure this will be a memorable highlight of their year!

As we look back on this crazy week, it’s clear that Dosbarth Draenog is thriving. The blend of academic learning, creative projects, and fun experiences has fostered a vibrant classroom atmosphere. I am incredibly proud of each student and their achievements this week. I look forward to seeing how their passion projects develop and can’t wait to share more updates in our next blog!