Wider Curriculum Y6 Spring 2
This term, our big question is:
“How has art represented aspects of our lives?”
Children will explore Early Islamic Civilisation, its art and cultural impact, and compare it with Britain in the same period. They will create a bound book combining historical research and artistic design inspired by Islamic art.
What We’re Learning
- History: Early Islamic Civilisation (Baghdad c. 900 CE) and its social impact, contrasted with Britain during the same era.
- Art: Features of Islamic art – symmetry, geometry, calligraphy, tessellation – and how these influence modern design.
- Geography: How physical geography influenced settlement and trade in Baghdad.
- Maths Links: Symmetry, repeated patterns, and properties of 2D shapes.
Key Learning Journey
Throughout this term, children will explore the Early Islamic Civilisation and its significance, beginning by locating Baghdad on maps and timelines and understanding why its geographical features made it an ideal settlement. They will research how Baghdad became a centre of learning and innovation, producing extended writing on its social impact, before comparing life in Baghdad with Britain around 900 CE. Building on this, pupils will investigate the features of Islamic art, contrast it with Early Medieval European art and modern Islamic art, and experiment with geometric and calligraphic designs. Finally, they will apply these techniques to create a book cover inspired by Islamic art, binding together their written work, and conclude the project by debating how history can be represented differently through media and interpretation.
Project Outcome
Children will:
- Produce a bound book showcasing their historical research and reflections.
- Design a book cover inspired by Islamic art, applying symmetry and geometric patterns.
Entitlements
- Talk by an Imam or visit to a mosque.
- Explore Islamic art through a gallery visit or virtual tour (e.g., Ashmolean Museum).
- Opportunities to discuss stereotyping, prejudice, and cultural contributions.
Key Text
- Explore Early Islamic Civilisation – Izzi Howell
Vocabulary Highlights
- History: civilisation, caliph, concurrent, Golden Age, Dark Ages
- Art: tessellation, calligraphy, symmetry, geometric, aniconism
- Geography: settlement, trade routes, topography
How Parents Can Support
- Discuss how art reflects culture and values.
- Explore patterns and symmetry in everyday life.
- Encourage curiosity about Islamic contributions to science, medicine, and art.
- Share family experiences of cultural traditions or visits to museums.
