What’s happening in Year 5

The Paper Column Challenge

During Science, Year 5 took part in the paper Column Challenge. The students examined different structures and which shapes made the strongest structures. They then set about making paper columns in groups. The columns needed to be 15cm high and students were given three short pieces of sticky tape. The strength of the structures were tested using a mini whiteboard and weights. Would you believe the strongest paper column structure held 4.5kg? This group chose to make cylinders for their columns and strengthened these with the remaining paper. It was also discovered that triangles add strength to the columns and as a result can provide greater support. A lot of fun and learning was had by all.

Wendy Anetter
Year 5 teacher

Shapes

In Mathematics, our students are diving into the world of 2D shapes, focusing on identifying various types of triangles and quadrilaterals. They have explored how these shapes are present in everyday life and applied their knowledge in the Paper Column Challenge in Science, investigating which shapes create the strongest columns. Year 5 has also enjoyed creating 2D shape artwork and discovering lines of symmetry. They are excited to explore further connections between shapes and the Olympics, enhancing their understanding of geometry through real-world applications.

Yu-Han Chen
Year 5 teacher

Olympics 2D shapes

Year 5 students have been eagerly following the Olympics by keeping tally of the medals in their classrooms, having discussions about the athletes’ growth mindset and ability to persevere through challenges as well as looking at 2D shapes and angles within the Olympics. They explored the range of 2D shapes found within countries’ flags which are participating in the Olympics as well as finding if countries’ flags had rotational symmetry. The students also enjoyed looking at the variety of sports and where angles can be found within the Olympics and how measuring angles in real life sporting events can be fundamental for athletes to improve their skills.

Bryony Williams and Tayla Kostakis
Year 5 teachers