Ourselves and Dinosaurs

Using Ourselves as our introductory theme we start the year with basic skills development. Activities include using modelling materials for manipulative and fine-motor skills development and correctly orientating letters and numbers. Drawing for pencil control, concentration, observation and creativity. Construction kits are utilized for the development of creativity, manipulative and social skills. Patterning and sorting activities develop mathematical skills, together with counting activities, puzzles and computer software. Listening skills are developed through story time, group discussion and carrying out simple instructions and using the 'Talking Books' software. Writing is developed using the children’s personal experiences. We introduce simple word books and word banks. Class reading activities, together with home reading tasks, develop literacy skills and knowledge of phonics and key words. Children are encouraged to be more independent and look after their possessions, taking responsibility for their coats, kits, book bags, lunches and ‘show and tell’ items. “Show and Tell”, discussion and role play develop verbal expression and confidence. Our literacy focus is ‘Mr Gumpy’s Motor Car’ by John Burningham and we have created our own zig-zag story books.