Planned learning intentions
To look closely at similarities, differences, patterns and change
To find out about, and identify, some features of living things
To retell narratives in the correct sequence
To explore colour, texture, shape, form and space in two or three dimensions
Resources
* Red backing paper * border roll and coloured paper of a contrasting colour * glitter * pictures and posters depicting growing plants * children's associated topic work
Step by step
* Plan growth-associated activities, as described below, and have the children save examples of their work to display.
* Back the display board with red paper and surround it with a contrasting border.
* Create the word 'growth' from paper letters sprinkled with glitter.
Double mount this and attach it to the centre of the display.
* Spread the children's work examples alongside posters and pictures and invite them to choose what to put on the board and where.
* Decide upon captions together, highlighting words related to learning outcomes by printing them in red.
Activities
* Create 'life cycle wheels' by drawing the different stages in the life of a butterfly around a circular piece of card. Cover the card with a clear piece of green paper with a segment cut out and attach it with a split pin so that it can be turned to reveal the stages.
* Create a simple jigsaw puzzle using a picture of a plant with a flower, stem, leaves and roots. Cut the picture into three and invite the children to reassemble it. Stick appropriate labels to the different parts of the plant.
* Read the story Jim and the Beanstalk by Raymond Briggs and have children work in pairs, drawing pictures of the beginning, middle and end of the story.
* Show the children a print of Van Gogh's 'Sunflowers' and invite them to paint their own versions using thick paint and brushes. Talk about how Van Gogh loved bright colours and spiky shapes.
Nicole Day is the reception class teacher at Hurworth House School, near Darlington. She spoke to Jean Evans