English
In English this term, we will be completing a poetry unit. The unit includes an anthology of different forms of poetry. As we read and analyse these poems we will be developing knowledge of key poetry terminology. Some learners within year 8, will be reading a book called: A Place Called Perfect. As we read through the book we will be making predictions and inferences based on the story. We will also begin to explore why the writer has chosen to use some specific literary techniques.

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Maths
This term, learners will extend their skills in algebra and statistics, working with linear graphs, sequences and data handling techniques. 

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Science
In science this term we will investigate topics in biology, chemistry and physics. In biology, we will be learning about the microscopic world of Unicellular Organisms. The topic of rocks and how the rock cycle functions will be covered within chemistry and energy transfers and a look into the fantastic world of Earth and space within physics finishes of the year for us.

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Humanities: History

In History this term, we will start by finding out about the beginnings of what would turn into the British Empire and examine how and why it expanded before looking at how big it was at its height. After half term, we will be looking at the Mughal Empire in India and how the East India Company managed to take control of large parts of India, leading to the Indian Mutiny (or War of Independence) and eventually the creation of the British Raj. We will then investigate how India gained its independence and examine the long term impact of the British Empire around the world.

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Humanities: Geography

In Geography this term, we will start by exploring the topic of climate change and the impact of human-induced climate change before looking at the physical, human and environmental geography of Asia. After half term, we will be finding out about China and its history, population distribution and how this is linked to its physical geography. We will also be investigating life in a mega-city and some of the economic initiatives that China has undertaken to make it a successful economic power but also look at how this has impacted the environment.

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Humanities: RE

In RE this term, we will be exploring many aspects about Judaism. We will find out about Jewish key beliefs, the different groups of Jewish people, how Jewish people believe they should lead their lives, and the leadership and the founding fathers of Judaism. We will also explore Jewish holy books, what happens in a synagogue, the daily life in the home and family of Jewish people and the major Jewish celebrations of Pesach and Sukkot.

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PSHE

In PSHE this half term, learners shall understand how prejudice and stereotypes are formed, how we become vulnerable to believing stereotypes and prejudice as we go through early life, and what different sources exist which can spread such beliefs. The half term shall end with a thorough discussion and study of the 2024 Southport Riots, and how prejudice and stereotypes created the ‘perfect storm’ for racist violence. 

After half term, the learners will further explore different examples of prejudice, such as homophobia and racism, and how we can become better British Citizens by practising tolerance and mutual respect.

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CDM (Creative Digital Media)
Learners will complete their stop-motion animation projects and progress on to video recording and editing to create a short video product. This will incorporate some of the audio skills gained previously. They will end the academic year with a media project of their choice using some of the skills gained this year.

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Music
This half term, we will be studying the four main types of Jazz music, following on from our work on Blues and Rock ‘n’ Roll. We will consider the historical climate which forms each type of Jazz and listen and play an example of each. After half term, we will be time travelling right back to Medieval times to look at music in each period in time. Starting with Medieval music, we will learn about Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Modern music through listening and practical tasks, understanding about how instruments and musical styles have developed.

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Drama
Learners will explore a range of pieces and genres and then they will choose and learn 1 or 2 monologues and/or a duologue (or two). They will have the option to be entered for a LAMDA exam scheduled for the weekend 5/6th July or to take an internal assessment at the end of term “The Gretton Drama Award”.

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Art

The vast majority of learners are continuing with their lantern project. When that is finished they will be designing and making a kite to be flown during the Arts Festival later in the summer.

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Design Technology
This term, learners will learn about 3D printing and design and manufacture their own 3D design.

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Food Technology 
During this term learners will be making various sweet and savoury dishes that they will be able to make again at home with limited help and support. Each week the learners will evaluate the food that they make. 

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PE
Learners will be undertaking an introduction into athletics where they will learn different techniques across throws, jumps, sprints and long distance running. They will demonstrate the chin knee toe, fosbury flop, sprint start and learn how to pace. Alongside this, learners will demonstrate the olympic values including teamwork, perseverance and inclusivity.

Forest School
This term, learners will learn how to build fires from scratch, take part in campfire cooking sessions and learn how to whittle wood with knives. We will also be learning to identify bugs and plants.