Ms Temple’s Weekly Update – Term 1 Week 9

Hello everyone,

I hope everyone has had a lovely week. It has been so nice to finally have a full week with no interruptions. 

Here is what Year 5/6 have been up to this week:

Maths Year 5 – Multiplication and Division

Aut.3.5 – Prime numbers
Aut.3.6 – Square numbers
Aut.3.7 – Cube numbers

Maths Year 6 – Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division

Aut.2.16 – Mental calculations and estimation
Aut.2.17 – Reason from known facts
Aut.2.16 – Mental calculations and estimation
Study day – Ready for end of unit assessment on Monday

Literacy

As we approach the end of our current unit, we’ve just finished reading ‘Queen of the Falls’. While the ending wasn’t the happy one we had all hoped for, we’re glad that Annie Edson Taylor achieved her daredevil dream, despite being betrayed by Frank Russel and Billy Banks. Next week, the students will bring the story to life by writing three diary entries from the perspectives of different characters, providing a meaningful conclusion to the unit.

IPC 

Science Task 6 – We explored the fascinating role of decomposers in ecosystems and why organisms like worms are vital to maintaining the balance of nature. We learned that decomposers break down dead plants and animals, recycling nutrients back into the soil, which helps new life grow. Without them, our ecosystems would be overwhelmed with waste, and the cycle of life would be disrupted. Worms, in particular, play a crucial part by improving soil health and ensuring plants have the nutrients they need to thrive.

Science Task 7 – We delved into the differences between vertebrates and invertebrates, learning how these two major groups of animals are distinguished by the presence or absence of a backbone. To deepen our understanding, we used a dichotomous key—a tool that helps us identify various species by answering a series of questions about their characteristics. This allowed us to explore the diversity within the animal kingdom, observing how species can be classified based on traits like body structure, movement, and habitats.

Science Task 8 – This week, we explored the unique world of bacteria and fungi, learning that they don’t belong to either the vertebrate or invertebrate groups but instead have their own distinct kingdoms. We discovered how both bacteria and fungi play essential roles in nature—bacteria help decompose organic matter and fix nitrogen, while fungi break down dead organisms and form beneficial relationships with plants. The students have started creating some fascinating posters, showcasing the importance of these often-overlooked organisms and their contributions to the health of ecosystems. 

Useful Information

Next week is shaping up to be an exciting one! In addition to wrapping up the week with a spooktacular Halloween party, we’ll be diving into an ocean of adventure on our class trip to the Busan Aquarium on Thursday. 

A big thank you to everyone who has returned the permission forms. If you haven’t yet paid, please ensure your child brings 6,000 won to school by Tuesday. There is a gift shop at the aquarium, but please avoid sending your child with too much money. Up to 30,000 won in cash will be more than enough for them to purchase a souvenir. Please make sure your child comes prepared with a snack, a packed lunch, and is dressed in their HFS school uniform. Weather permitting, we plan to have lunch on the beach, though there won’t be time to go into the sea.

The Halloween party on Friday will kick off in the afternoon after lunch. If your child is dressing up, it might be a good idea to pack a change of clothes, just in case their costume becomes uncomfortable to wear throughout the day.

Have a wonderful weekend, 

Ms. Temple 😄