Gold Rushes, Science Solutions and Resilience in Year 5!

Mr Craig • March 13, 2026

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A busy week of exploration, experiments and reflection for our hardworking Year 5 class.

TL;DR:

  • Learned about the Klondike Gold Rush and That Spot by Jack London.
  • Used adventurous vocabulary to describe harsh conditions.
  • Investigated which substances dissolve in water during science experiments.
  • Explored resilience and coping strategies with the Mental Health Support Team.
  • Celebrated Mother’s Day with special classroom activities.

It has been another busy and exciting week in Year 5!


In our English lessons, we have been learning about the Klondike Gold Rush and reading the story That Spot by Jack London. We have explored what life was like for people travelling to search for gold and thought about the challenges they faced along the way. The class has enjoyed discussing the story and thinking about the characters, the setting and how the author creates tension. We have also been working on using adventurous vocabulary and describing the harsh conditions of the Klondike.


In Science, we have been investigating solutions. We carried out experiments where we dissolved different substances in water to see what would happen. We tested things like salt and sugar and observed how they changed when mixed with water. The children made careful observations and discussed which substances dissolved and which did not. It was great to see everyone working scientifically and sharing their ideas.


On Thursday, the Mental Health Support Team visited us to run a session about resilience. We talked about our personal strengths and discussed different coping strategies we can use when things feel challenging. The children shared thoughtful ideas and reflected on ways to help themselves and others stay positive.


Today was also very special because we welcomed some mums into the classroom to celebrate Mother’s Day. The children enjoyed sharing kind messages and spending a little time together. It was a lovely way to end the week and celebrate the important people in our lives.


Well done Year 5 for all your hard work this week! 

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