What a fantastic half term we’ve had as we continued exploring the second part of our exciting theme, ‘Soaring High and Diving Deep’!
Our half term started with a fun and hands-on Discover and Do afternoon all about penguins. In Science and Technology, we investigated how penguins keep their feathers waterproof. Using wax crayons to represent the oily coating on their feathers, we coloured penguin pictures and sprayed them with water, watching in amazement as it rolled off the page. We then learned about the penguins’ preen gland, which produces the oil they spread across their feathers.
We were also curious about how penguins stay warm in freezing temperatures. Through research, we discovered the role of blubber- a thick layer of fat beneath their skin. To explore this, we carried out an experiment using a glove filled with oil to mimic blubber. When comparing hands in icy water, we found that the “blubber” hand stayed much warmer!
In Literacy, we focused on researching penguins and using our knowledge to write detailed non-fiction reports. We developed our use of ambitious vocabulary, including adjectives, verbs and adverbs, to enhance our writing. We also loved reading Lost and Found by Oliver Jeffers and used our creativity to reimagine the story by changing characters, settings and endings. World Book Day was another highlight, with some fantastic costumes on display.
In Maths, we’ve been learning to tell the time using both analogue and digital clocks, including o’clock, quarter past, half past and quarter to. We’ve strengthened our understanding of number bonds to 20 and applied them to solve real-life problems. Using a variety of strategies, we tackled addition and subtraction with numbers such as 9, 11, 19 and 21. We also explored symmetry by identifying lines of symmetry in shapes and developed our measuring skills through careful estimation.
This half term, one of our proudest moments was taking part in the Eisteddfod, celebrating Welsh culture and achievement. We were especially proud of our Year 2 winners, da iawn pawb!
In Humanities, we explored Antarctica using Google Earth and discovered where different penguin species live around the world. We then plotted these locations on a world map, helping us develop our understanding of global geography.
Our Art lessons focused on observing penguins closely, exploring line, shape and texture. We created sketches before and after our learning to show how much our understanding had grown, the progress was incredible! We also used clay and tools to sculpt detailed 3D penguins, carefully adding texture to represent their feathers. We also spent a day creating fantastic penguin models using cardboard, styrofoam, wire and crayons. The children worked so hard and their creations were brilliant!
In PE, we had great fun learning traditional Welsh dances, as well as continuing to develop our gymnastics skills. We worked individually and with partners to create movement sequences and have even begun preparing for Sports Day, which we’re really looking forward to.
To finish off a brilliant half term, we got creative with Easter crafts, baked delicious penguin cupcakes to sell at the hatch, and proudly showcased our creations in a joyful Easter bonnet parade. It was the perfect way to celebrate all of our hard work and learning!
We hope you all have a lovely break over the Easter holidays!
Year 2 Team
