Summer 2
Project Title: How Are Cultures Expressed Around the World?
Focus Question: What Is Unique About the United Kingdom?
This term, our Year 1 children will explore the diversity and identity of the United Kingdom, learning about its geography, cultural symbols, national birds, and traditional foods. Through a blend of Geography, Art, and Design & Technology, children will discover what makes each of the four nations of the UK special and how culture is expressed in everyday life.
What Will the Children Be Learning?
Children will:
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Geography:
- Learn to name and locate the four countries of the UK, their capital cities, and surrounding seas.
- Explore human and physical features of each nation and compare them.
- Discover landmarks, symbols, and national birds that represent each country.
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Art:
- Study the work of artists like Andrea Butler and explore mark making, texture, and sculpture.
- Create sketches and 3D models of birds using a variety of materials and techniques.
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Design & Technology (DT):
- Learn about healthy eating using the Eatwell Plate.
- Taste and prepare components of a Ploughman’s Lunch, a traditional British meal.
- Practice food preparation skills such as chopping, grating, and spreading.
Project Outcome
By the end of the term, children will have:
- Created a sculpture of a national bird using paper and mixed media.
- Designed and prepared their own Ploughman’s Lunch, considering nutrition and personal preferences.
- Gained a deeper understanding of the geographical and cultural identity of the UK.
Enrichment Opportunities
Children will enjoy:
- Map reading and exploring aerial photographs.
- Tasting traditional foods from across the UK.
- Creating sculptures inspired by national birds.
- Preparing and evaluating their own healthy meal.
Global Learning
Children will explore citizenship and commonality, learning how different cultures within the UK are expressed through symbols, traditions, and food. They will appreciate both the diversity and unity of the UK’s nations.
Supporting Learning at Home
You can support your child by:
- Talking about your family’s heritage and traditions.
- Exploring maps together and locating the UK’s countries and capital cities.
- Reading linked texts such as Katie in Scotland or The Big Book of the UK.
- Trying out simple recipes together and discussing healthy eating.