Year 4 Autumn 1 Curriculum Information

This autumn, Year 4 are diving into a rich and engaging curriculum filled with exciting texts, creative experiences and inspiring topics across every subject.

In English, we will explore the theme of diversity through our class novel The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf. This powerful story allows us to reflect on the experiences of refugees and the importance of kindness and inclusion. Alongside this, we will be enjoying Where My Wellies Take Me by Michael Morpurgo, and using The First Slodge by Jeanne Willis and Jenni Desmond to discuss ideas around sharing the world. We’ll also explore classic myths through The Orchard Book of Greek Myths, which links closely to our history focus on Ancient Greece. In writing, children will craft their own myth based on Theseus and the Minotaur and produce a non-fiction article debating whether social media should be banned for under-13s. Across these units, we’ll develop key grammar skills including the use of adjectives, adverbials, conjunctions, prepositions, repetition, adverbs, synonyms, dialogue, alliteration, onomatopoeia, and powerful verbs.

In maths, our focus for the autumn term is place value, followed by addition and subtraction. These core concepts will form the foundation for more advanced topics later in the year and will be practised regularly to build fluency and confidence.

Our big question in science is: Why do we classify plants and animals? Children will learn about different classes of vertebrates and invertebrates, explore plant classification, and carry out their own classification enquiry. This links beautifully with our visit to the Science Museum for the Wild Things session, where pupils will learn more about adaptation and food chains in the natural world.

History this term centres around the question: How has Ancient Greek culture influenced the Western World? Pupils will explore the chronology of Ancient Greece, the city-states of Athens and Sparta, and key figures such as Alexander the Great. They will study Greek philosophy, mythology, the Olympic Games, and the legacy of Greek architecture and art, including a special focus on the Elgin Marbles. To bring this learning to life, we’ll use an Ancient Greece project box from the library, investigate a real Greek Corinthian helmet, and take part in a Detectives Workshop.

In geography, we’re asking: Where is our local area and how has it changed over time? Through our unit on spatial sense, children will work with globes and maps, learn about scale and grid references, and investigate our local area. This includes a museum trip to deepen our understanding of how places evolve over time.

Our computing lessons will focus on systems and networks, specifically collaborative learning using Google or Microsoft Office 365. Pupils will work together on slide presentations, use Google Forms, and explore shared spreadsheets while developing their understanding of teamwork and digital tools.

In art, we’ll be inspired by artists such as Caravaggio, Vermeer, Goncharova and Begum, focusing on the concept of light. Pupils will explore how light creates form and drama through techniques like chiaroscuro, underpainting, and tone. They will develop their skills in observational drawing, chalk and charcoal, and acrylic painting.

In music, our unit on Musical Structures will introduce children to a range of songs including Hoedown, Go Tell It on the Mountain, I’m Always There, Trick or Treat, and Martin Luther King. Pupils will explore rhythm, structure and instrumentation as they sing, play and perform.

In French, we’ll begin by introducing ourselves, learning how to pronounce the French alphabet, and practising how to ask for spellings and give basic personal information.

Our PSHE curriculum starts with Being Me in My World. We will be thinking about what it means to be part of a class team, being a responsible school citizen, understanding rights and responsibilities, and how we make group decisions. Pupils will be encouraged to find their voice and consider what motivates positive behaviour.

In RE, we’re exploring the key question: How special is the relationship Jews have with God? We will learn about beliefs and practices in Judaism, including the promises made between Jews and God. Through our lessons, we’ll consider how sacred texts and worship help people feel closer to their faith and community.

Throughout the term, we will also mark a range of special days and festivals including Rosh Hashanah, the Harvest Festival, Eid ul-Adha, and All Saints Day.

As part of our wider curriculum and values, we will explore democracy through our study of voting in Ancient Greece, reflect on individual liberty through the story of Alexander the Great, and use mythology to help us think about faith and tolerance in today’s world.

We’re looking forward to a term full of imagination, discussion, creativity and growth. Thank you for your continued support as we begin another exciting chapter in your child’s learning journey.