Mr Dunn’s Class Update T1 W4

Hello everyone.

In English, the students have been exploring key themes and characters in Louis Sachar’s Holes. The students finished off their video showing the harsh condition of Camp Green Lake. They analysed how Stanley and Zero’s growing friendship provides hope and resilience in contrast to the harshness of camp life. Through close analysis of extracts, they also considered how the Warden’s attack on Mr Sir reveals her power and cruelty. Students then took part in a debate on whether Kate Barlow should be seen as a victim or villain, encouraging them to use evidence and persuasive language, and finally examined the symbolism of Green Lake, discussing how its change from fertile to barren reflects ideas of justice, love, and community.

This week we launched our new IMYC unit Responsibility. To spark curiosity and get students thinking about the theme, we played a fun game called “What’s Your Excuse?”. In this activity, students were given a scenario along with a random word they had to use when creating their excuse. It was a light-hearted way to start thinking about how we respond to different situations and the responsibilities we hold for our choices.

In Geography, the focus has been on political cartoons. Students analysed images related to global issues, learning how visual messages can carry powerful meanings. This encouraged them to think critically about the responsibilities of governments and individuals in tackling worldwide challenges.

In Science, we introduced a sensitive but important topic: drugs. We discussed both legal and illegal substances, exploring the reasons people may choose to use them. Students reflected on the consequences of these choices and considered the responsibilities we all have in looking after our own health and wellbeing.

In History, we began studying the Korean War. Students are working in groups to create presentations that explain the causes leading up to the conflict. This is helping them understand how responsibilities (or failures to act responsibly) between nations can lead to significant historical events.

Year 7 Maths

The topics covered this week include:

This week we have been finishing our unit on understanding and using algebraic notation. There will be a unit test on Tuesday.

  • Aut.2.6 – Substitute values into single operation expressions
  • Aut.2.7 – Find numerical inputs and outputs for a series of two function machines
  • Aut.2.8 – Use diagrams and letters with a series of two function machines
  • Aut.2.9 – Find the function machines given a two-step expression
  • Aut.2.10 – Substitute values into two-step expressions
  • Aut.2.11 – Generate sequences given an algebraic rule

Year 8 Maths

The topics covered this week include:

  • Aut.2.3 – Converting between currencies
  • Aut.2.4 – Exploring direct proportion graphs (Higher Tier)
  • Aut.2.5 – Exploring relationships between similar shapes
  • Aut.2.6 – Understanding scale factors as multiplicative representations
  • Aut.2.7 – Drawing and interpreting scale diagrams

Students have been provided with a workbook for reference and practice. On Tuesday, students will have an assessment on the Multiplicative Change unit. Please encourage them to review the material thoroughly to prepare effectively for the test.

Year 9 Maths

This week, Year 9 students have studied the following topics:

  • Aut.2 – Forming & solving equations
  • Aut.2.3 – Inequalities with negative numbers
  • Aut.2.4 – Solving equations with unknowns on both sides
  • Aut.2.5 – Solving inequalities with unknowns on both sides
  • Aut.2.6 – Equations and inequalities in other mathematical contexts
  • Aut.2.7 – Formulae and equations

The workbook has been sent home to support revision ahead of the upcoming assessment scheduled for Thursday.