Year 4 have been utterly engaged in their Potions topic this term and their teachers report that it has really brought out their adventurous and inquisitive side. Plus there has been plenty of opportunities for cross curricular fun as well.
Science
In science, Year 4 were split into three groups which rotated around three different activities. The first was a challenge to make their own lava lamps: they had to get the right ingredients and measurements together and were thrilled when it all came together. The second made their very own rockets and the screams and laughter could be heard all over the school as their little science experiment shot into the sky. Our final group were busy with Bunsen burners turning fire into different colours which made them feel like real wizards! It was such an amazing lesson and one that the children will remember for a long time. The buzz was amazing and the children couldn’t wait to let their parents know what they had been up to.
“It was amazing seeing the children so immersed in their learning; they all said how this is the best lesson ever! With the Juniors (Years 3 & 4), we love giving the children the opportunity to explore and discover in their learning and this certainly ticked those boxes! Thank you to the science team for making this vision a reality,” said Miss Hannan.
English
Year 4 have been looking at different moments in literature in which potions feature. One week they talked about the ending of Romeo and Juliet, after which the children came up with their own alternative endings. Another, they discussed Macbeth and enjoyed performing the famous Song of the Witches: "Double, double, toil and trouble." They were encouraged to put their own spin on it and it was great seeing them use their HPL Empathy skills when working in groups or pairs. They then went on to write their very own recipe for a potions ready for the Potions Fair.
Potions Fair
Welcome to the Westbourne House School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! Our Year 4 classrooms were transformed into a magical wizard's fair as the children donned their costumes and called to the Year 3 customers to buy their wares.
"I'm selling potions that turn you into a cat - it's called Meow Juice," said one keen saleswitch.
"This potion makes you shrink for 24 hours and this one makes you crave bugs," said another miniwitch.
Another wizard seller shouted: "This one makes you go back in time. Come and buy my potion."
There were even some bargains there including some BOGOF offers (Buy One Get One Free)! The potion books you could buy described how to make the potions and came with a warning: "Potion making is a subtle science and exact art. The slightest change to a potion could lead to a very different brew."
Mrs Davies said: "They used their creativity to produce magical potion books full of innovative and exciting ideas. A wonderful array of costumes, lights, tinsel and even jelly fish helped set the mood as the children fully embraced their roles as witches and wizards!"
