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Upper Key Stage 2

Upper Key Stage 2 (UKS2) refers to Years 5 and 6 in the English education system, typically for children aged 9 to 11. It is the final phase of Key Stage 2 (KS2) before they transition to secondary school.

What Do Children Learn in Upper Key Stage 2?

Children follow the National Curriculum, which includes:

1. English (Literacy)

  • Reading comprehension and analysis of challenging texts (fiction, non-fiction, poetry).

  • Writing for different purposes (stories, reports, persuasive texts, explanations).

  • Grammar, punctuation, and spelling (SPaG).

  • Speaking and listening skills through debates, presentations, and discussions.

2. Mathematics

  • Fractions, decimals, and percentages.

  • Long multiplication and division.

  • Algebra, ratio, and proportion (introduced in Year 6).

  • Problem-solving and reasoning skills.

  • Geometry (angles, shapes, coordinates).

  • Data handling (graphs, averages, probability).

3. Science

  • Forces (gravity, friction, air and water resistance).

  • Properties and changes of materials.

  • Living things and their habitats (classification, adaptation, evolution).

  • The human body (circulatory system, diet, and exercise).

  • Light, electricity, and sound.

  • Conducting scientific investigations.

4. History

  • British history (e.g., Victorians, World War II).

  • Ancient civilisations (e.g., Ancient Greeks, Maya).

  • Local and global historical events and figures.

5. Geography

  • Map reading and navigation (longitude, latitude, OS maps).

  • Physical geography (volcanoes, rivers, earthquakes).

  • Human geography (migration, trade, climate change).

6. Computing

  • Coding and programming (using Scratch, Python, or HTML).

  • Internet safety and responsible online behaviour.

  • Spreadsheets, databases, and presentations.

7. Art & Design / Design & Technology (DT)

  • Drawing, painting, and sculpture using various techniques.

  • Evaluating artists’ work.

  • Designing and making projects using different materials.

  • Cooking and nutrition.

8. Physical Education (PE)

  • Team sports (football, netball, hockey).

  • Gymnastics and dance.

  • Athletics and outdoor adventure activities.

9. Religious Education (RE)

  • Learning about different religions and worldviews.

  • Exploring moral and ethical issues.

  • Reflecting on personal beliefs.

10. Music

  • Composing and performing music.

  • Learning an instrument (e.g., recorder, ukulele).

  • Understanding musical notation.

11. Modern Foreign Languages (MFL)

  • Learning basic vocabulary and phrases in languages like French or Spanish.

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

  • Emotional well-being and mental health.

  • Healthy relationships and puberty.

  • Citizenship, financial literacy, and career aspirations.

Assessment in Upper Key Stage 2

  • Year 6 SATs: Standardised tests in English (Reading, SPaG) and Maths.

  • Teacher Assessments: Ongoing evaluations in writing, science, and foundation subjects.

Why is Upper Key Stage 2 Important?

It prepares children for secondary school by developing independence, problem-solving, and resilience in learning.

Would you like details on specific subjects or strategies to support learning at home? 😊

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