What Do Children Learn in Lower Key Stage 2?

At this stage, children build on their learning from Key Stage 1 (KS1) and develop more independence in their studies. Subjects covered include:
 

1. English (Literacy)

• Reading: Developing comprehension skills, reading a variety of fiction and non-fiction texts, understanding themes and vocabulary.

• Writing: Expanding sentence structure, using paragraphs, and improving spelling, punctuation, and grammar (SPaG).

• Speaking & Listening: Developing communication skills through discussions, presentations, and drama.
   

2. Mathematics (Numeracy)

• Number & Place Value: Understanding larger numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

• Fractions & Decimals: Introducing simple fractions and decimals.

• Measurement: Time, money, length, weight, and capacity.

• Geometry & Statistics: Shapes, angles, data handling, and basic graphs.
   

3. Science

• Biology: Animals including humans, plants, and living things.

• Physics: Light, forces, and magnets.

• Chemistry: States of matter (solids, liquids, gases) and rocks.
   

4. History

• Ancient civilizations (e.g., Ancient Egypt, Romans, Vikings).

• British history, including key historical events and figures.
   

5. Geography

• Locational knowledge (countries, continents, oceans).

• Physical geography (rivers, mountains, climate).

• Human geography (settlements, land use).
   

6. Art & Design

• Exploring famous artists and different techniques.

• Creating drawings, paintings, and sculptures.
   

7. Design & Technology (DT)

• Designing and making models.

• Understanding nutrition and cooking simple meals.
   

8. Computing

• Basic coding and programming.

• Online safety and responsible internet use.
   

9. Physical Education (PE)

• Gymnastics, dance, team sports, and swimming (in some schools).
   

10. Religious Education (RE)

• Learning about different religions, values, and cultures.
   

11. Music

• Singing, playing instruments, and understanding musical notation.
   

12. Personal, Social, Health & Economic Education (PSHE)

• Learning about friendships, emotions, and healthy living.
   

Key Skills Developed in LKS2

• More independent learning and problem-solving.

• Improved reading fluency and comprehension.

• Stronger mathematical reasoning and mental arithmetic.

• Greater curiosity in science and history.

• More teamwork and social skills in group activities.