MrJennings

In our first week back after half term we have had something of a science focus to our timetable. In addition to carrying out two short experiments on friction (using force meters) for our main science topic on forces, we had a Science Day in school on Thursday. Our theme for the day in 5J was a CSI scenario. Each group of scientists had to observe and test five white powders that had been found at the home of six people suspected of a crime. The tests involved describing the powders in terms of texture and appearance, observing its reaction in water, measuring the pH of the solution and observing the reaction of the powder in water. The results were compared with the reactions of a white powder left at the scene of the crime. Our teams of scientists also ran chromatography tests on the ink from black pens found at suspects' homes. Again the results were compared with the results from ink used to write a note that was found left at the crime scene. Having identified the powder and the type of pen used, the children were able to cross-reference these with the substances and pens found at the different suspects' homes to identify the individual most likely to have committed the crime. Some groups also had a go a recording their own finger prints.

We have also had two sessions to start off our design and technology topic. The main outcome of this will be the creation of a woven panel to be used to make a Christmas or greeting card. This week we measured, cut and sanded the wood for the weaving frames and also started to plan the picture.

In English this week, we have been analysing the plots of short stories and trying to understand how the author has constructed the story in terms of creating an opening, building up the character and setting, working towards a climax followed by a resolution and ending. Our maths has concentrated on the properties of 3D shapes and maths problems.