Zoe Bullen - Curriculum Lead and Katherine Robertson - English Lead

‘We use them on the doorway so that they’re at the eye-point of the children every time they walk inside,’ Zoe explains. ‘We have a doorway every half-term, so they change regularly; and the function of the doorway, really, is to immerse the children in the project that they’re going to be doing.’

In keeping with the school motto, ‘\nBringing learning to life\n’, the doorways act as a hook and a jumping-off point for the activities and lessons that each half-term project will incorporate. A typical doorway might include vocabulary cards, pictures and prompts, and—importantly—a wide selection of theme-appropriate books, such as \nThe Book of Brilliant Bugs\n in the ‘Deep Dark Wood’ doorway, \nEarth’s Incredible Oceans\n to accompany ‘Under the Sea’, and \nKnowledge Encyclopedia Animal!\n for ‘We’re Going to the Zoo’.\nEducators will all know, of course, that vibrant, eye-catching classroom displays are a sure-fire way to catch children’s interest and engage them in their learning; and, at The Oaks, the classrooms are chock-full of resource areas and showcases. The curriculum doorway concept takes this one step further: ‘We got to a stage where there was lots of lovely learning—project learning—going on across the curriculum, but it was all based on the classroom displays in sight. So, we thought, by promoting the curriculum doorways, children from other year groups could have an insight into what each individual class was learning about as well.’\n\nThe books on display are not just for decoration. Pupils are encouraged to borrow the books to read, and they are also used and referenced in lessons. Careful curation is therefore a key part in constructing a curriculum doorway every half-term. A number of considerations go into this: Katherine’s current Year Four class, for instance, has been using \nEyewitness: Ancient Rome\n, chosen because ‘I like the layout of the book—I think it’s attractive to children. The pictures look real, I like the amount of photos, and, in particular, I would say, the vocabulary, it really pushes the children.’\n\nThis last point is a major element, especially as children across the country have been struggling more with their vocabulary levels over the last few years under the pandemic. As a teacher in upper Key Stage 2, Katherine has found that the vocabulary and reading level in the books need to be ‘accessible, but challenging’—parameters for which she and her colleagues have found the \nDK Eyewitness\n series\n to be an excellent fit.

‘I find that there’s enough high-quality text and vocabulary in the book to teach every reading skill. Certainly as the children get up to their end of Key Stage tests in Year Six, the amount that they have to read, and the stamina that they have to have for the reading, is phenomenal. Sometimes, if they are just doing our reading scheme, they’re not reading lengthier texts, so I feel like your books are really good for high-level vocabulary, and the amount that they actually have to read and take in. There’s a huge amount of information in the book!’

Lower down the school, in Zoe’s Year Two class, the children have been using \nThe Magic and Mystery of Trees \nin guided reading; and she has found that the advantage of DK’s non-fiction texts is that they can be dipped in and out of in more manageable chunks. ‘I teach young children, so, obviously, they take a lot of different things from a text—the picture clues and things like that that the children will enjoy—so it’s nice to just be able to use a double-page spread out of one as well.’ \n\nOutside of guided reading, the curriculum doorway books are also a great starting point for learning activities. Zoe likes to use the books for research activities: ‘You could set a set of questions beforehand, and the children would use the books to find the answers; or it might be one of several texts that the children can dip into. We do also like to let the children create their own ways of recording—so, we might use the way that a page is set up as a stimulus for their own writing. So, they might use that to then produce an information text on trees, or on the Romans or something, but using different examples of texts that they’ve been shown.’ Even more fun, Katherine’s class recently had a ‘Wow Day’ after reading \nEyewitness: Ancient Rome\n in class, in which the children came into school dressed as Romans and held a banquet based on the things that they had learnt from the text.\nThe Oaks prides itself on being a ‘reading school’—and so, in keeping with that mission, they take every opportunity to promote their love of books. Every classroom has its own ‘reading journey’ display, where covers of books that the class has read so far in the year are put up and proudly shown; and even the parents are encouraged to come in and borrow from the library the school has created especially for them. ‘But we’re lucky in our school—the children love books, so it’s not a battle trying to get anybody to read,’ Katherine tells us—in itself surely a testament to the happy relationship with reading that the teaching staff at The Oaks have fostered.

Feeling inspired? You can follow The Oaks Primary School on Twitter \n@OaksBolton\n for more of their creative classroom ideas, and check out some of the fantastic books they have been reading with their pupils below\n.

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Learn about the amazing natural science of trees in this illustrated nature and science book for kids aged 7-9. From the highest branch and leaf down to the complex "wood wide web" of roots, it's no wonder every part of a tree plays an important role in its own growth and the habitat of the whole forest or woodland. The Magic & Mystery of Trees is a nature book that takes children on a fascinating journey of exploration, showing them just how special these mighty organisms are. Did you know that trees can communicate with each other and warn each other predators? Or that they can record the past, and anticipate the future to ensure their survival? Dive deep into the pages of this nature book for kids to discover exactly how trees nurture their networks, and explore extraordinary trees from all around the world. Explore the pages of this terrific book on trees to discover: -Groundbreaking explanations on the science of tree communication -Supports KS1 and KS2 curriculum within Science and Geography subjects -In collaboration with RHS, the UK's leading gardening charity -Striking and detailed illustrations throughout the book -Includes fun practical activities such as planting your own tree and measuring a tree's age The Magic & Mystery of Trees is a must-have volume for children aged 7-9 with an interest in both nature and science, doubling up as the perfect volume for parents, grandparents and educators who are seeking a fun and engaging nature book for children to explore and love, whilst they learn lots of unbe-leaf-able facts that may coincide with their Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 curriculum for both Science and Geography. Split into 4 core chapters, covering everything from reproduction to rainforests, the wood wide web to deforestation and its effects, as well as fun facts about trees you may have never heard of before, and engaging activities to teach kids how to plant a tree. The Magic & Mystery of Trees is sure to delight all curious nature lovers out there.

RHS The Magic and Mystery of Trees

Step into the world of Ancient Rome and explore the rise and fall of a fascinating ancient civilization like never before! Become an eyewitness to the wonders of one of history's greatest civilizations, from it's vast empire to gladiator fights, this picture-led guide will take you on a visual tour through Ancient Rome like never before. Who were Rome's most famous emperors? What was everyday life like for a soldier in the Roman army? How did the citizens of ancient Rome live? Did gladiators really fight to the death in the mighty Colosseum? If you find yourself seeking the answers to these questions and more, then this may be the book for you! Photographs of real artefacts and detailed illustrations will help you to understand what it was like to live in this mighty civilisation, as it changed from a small city-state ruled by kings to one of the most powerful empires in history. Find out, too, what a typical Roman house was like and what food Romans ate. Learn about how people spent their free time, whether paying a visit to the theatre, using the public bath, or watching gladiators fight a gruesome battle to the death in the world-famous Colosseum. In this newly- revised Roman empire book, you can expect to find: -Up to 20 percent new images, including photography and updated diagrams -All information updated by expert consultants -Packed with amazing facts, infographics, statistics, and timelines -Includes brand new eyewitness accounts from experts in the field This museum in a book uses striking full-colour photographs and illustrations of crafts and technology, talks about trade and travel and house and home in Ancient Rome, as well as amazing facts, diagrams, statistics, and timelines to help bring this extraordinary civilisation to life before your very eyes. The unique visual approach immerses curious children in every page, and the added wall chart is the perfect historical-themed accessory for the bedroom or classroom! A must-have volume for curious children aged 9+ with a thirst for knowledge and learning, alongside teachers, parents and librarians. So, what's new? Part of DK's best-selling Eyewitness series, this popular title has been reinvigorated for the next generation of information-seekers and stay-at-home explorers, with a fresh new look, up to 20 per cent new images, including photography and updated diagrams, updated information, and a new "eyewitness" feature with fascinating first-hand accounts from experts in the field. Explore the series! Globally, the Eyewitness series has sold more than 50 million copies over 30 years. Join the journey to combat climate change with Eyewitness Climate Change or take a trip aboard the most famous ship in history with Eyewitness Titanic.

Ancient Rome

Make way for the Vikings! These legendary explorers and warriors return to life in this leading title from the best-selling Eyewitness series of reference titles for children. Known for their fearsome reputations, the Vikings made their mighty mark on history, during centuries of bloodthirsty battles and international trade. Extraordinary colour photographs and illustrations show them terrorising and trading in stunning detail, and also reveal their softer side as skilled craftspeople. Join the Vikings as you launch a raid, brandish a sword, sail a warship, and watch a burial ceremony at sea. Hear classic stories, called sagas, to learn more about the origins and beliefs of these fierce folk. Like all Eyewitness titles, Eyewitness Viking comes crammed with information, infographics, statistics, facts, and timelines designed to educate and entertain the younger reader. If you're feeling brave, put the giant fold-out Viking wall chart up on your bedroom or classroom wall as a handy reference tool for school projects.

Viking

Discover the insects of the world! Earth's creepy crawlies may be small but they are far from boring! Learn how they contribute to life on the planet, where they live, what they eat, how their bodies work, and what makes them so special. This beautifully illustrated bug book for kids for ages 7-9 years old is packed with: - Fascinating information about bugs that supports and goes beyond the curriculum - Stories and facts to convey the amazing world of creepy-crawlies - Factual and informative, with detailed illustrations and photographs of insects, spiders, molluscs, and more - Compelling text written by insect expert, author, and television presenter, Jess French - Stunning photographs of individual creatures, from beetles to butterflies Take a magical journey through the forest floor, down into the deepest caves, and even across the open ocean. The Book of Brilliant Bugs, written by insect expert Jess French takes children on an expedition into the bug kingdom. The insect book is filled with fascinating facts about these little animals, how bugs pass on messages, compete for food, seek true love, and fill the air with buzzing wings. It also shows us how bugs help look after our planet and how we can help them. Young animal enthusiasts can spot and learn all the main bug groups. From worms, snails, millipedes and centipedes, spiders and scorpions, woodlice, bees, and even bugs that glow! This educational natural science book will encourage children to love and appreciate science and nature.

The Book of Brilliant Bugs

Enter the world of oceans and discover all the interesting animals that live in them! Swim with jellyfish, wonder at the busy life of a seagrass meadow, and fence with narwhals. Children will be delighted to learn about life under the sea and how to conserve it for generations to come. Inside the pages of Earth's Incredible Oceans, you'll discover: - Fascinating information about oceans that supports and goes beyond the national curriculum - Fun and unusual facts for curious 7-9 year-olds about amazing sea creatures, underwater habitats, and how we can bring about environmental change - Compelling and factual text written by animal expert Jess French, and beautifully detailed ocean-themed illustrations by Claire McElfatrick Let's go on an underwater adventure! From glowing jellyfish to deep-sea dwellers, they'll discover the incredible secret world of life under the sea. This ocean book is filled with colourful visuals that will delight and inspire kids - teaching them the importance of the ocean and how we can help to take care of it. Fish, sharks, whales, and invertebrates swim through the pages of this colourful ocean book, which combines gorgeous illustrations and photos to help young enthusiasts learn all about the world's oceans. Children will learn interesting facts, and explanations about how the ocean functions, such as, how underwater plants and species rely on each other, and how ocean animals have fun and look after their young. This beautiful book is the perfect gift for young animal and conservation enthusiasts. Complete the Series: DK's Kid's Nature series of educational books for kids teach them about the magical natural world. Other books in this series include The Magic and Mystery of Trees and The Book of Brilliant Bugs.

Earth's Incredible Oceans

Dive into our planet's largest and least explored world in this stunning encyclopedia of everything ocean - including whales, waves, wrecks, wind farms, and more! Using 3D computer illustrations to show cross-section views and a level of detail you can't find in other ebooks, this children's ocean encyclopedia takes you on a world tour of the waters that cover 70 percent of our planet. Including sharks, jellyfish, turtles, dolphins, octopuses, penguins, and seahorses, you will see the fish, invertebrates, and other animals that call the ocean home and learn how their anatomy and behaviour is adapted to deal with a watery habitat. Discover the geography, geology, and ecology that lies beneath the waves - from the dramatic landscapes of the deepest trench and towering underwater chimneys, to coastal coral reefs and kelp forests teeming with life. Find out, too, about the science behind the seas. How do islands form? What are tsunamis? How can you help with marine conservation? Beautifully illustrated and full of facts, Knowledge Encyclopedia Ocean is the ultimate reference book for children curious about our planet's watery world.

Knowledge Encyclopedia Ocean!

Explore the animal kingdom like you've never known before with this children's encyclopedia perfect for young animal lovers. Forming part of a fantastic series of kid's educational books, this bold and brilliant kid's encyclopedia uses ground-breaking CGI imagery to reveal the world as you've never seen it before. Informative, diverse in subject matter, easy-to-read and brimming with beautiful graphics, young learners can explore the incredibly detailed cross-sections and cutaways that reveal the inner workings of the animal planet. This charming children's encyclopedia opens the world in new ways, with: -Packed with facts, charts, timelines, and illustrations that cover a vast range of topics. -Encompassing a visual approach with illustrations, photographs and extremely detailed 3D CGI images. -Crystal clear text distills the key information. -DK's encyclopedias are fact-checked by subject experts to offer accuracy beyond online sources of information. This fully-updated edition of Knowledge Encyclopedia Animal! is the perfect encyclopedia for children aged 9-12, and introduces children to the major animal groups along with how they fit into the tree of life. Covering invertebrates, fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals and more, this amazing animal book for kids is jam-packed with fun facts about your favourite animals and lesser-known species as well as insightful infographics and data boxes so that every topic is covered in depth and detail while remaining easy to understand at a glance. Explore, Discover And Learn! DK's Knowledge Encyclopedia Animal! uncovers the marvels of the animal kingdom in unprecedented detail and with stunning realism, so you can spend quality time exploring the diversity of the animal world with your children, accompanied by impressive visuals to engage their senses. A must-have volume for curious kids with a thirst for knowledge, this enthralling animal encyclopedia is structured in such a way that your child can read a bit at a time, and feel comfortable to pause and ask questions. Doubling up as the perfect gift for young readers, who are always asking questions about our planet! At DK, we believe in the power of discovery. This thrilling kid's encyclopedia is part of the Knowledge Encyclopedia educational series. Celebrate your child's curiosity as they complete the collection and discover diverse facts about the world around them. Dive into the deep blue with Knowledge Encyclopedia Ocean! Travel back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the earth with Knowledge Encyclopedia Dinosaur! And hone your knowledge on how the human body works with Knowledge Encyclopedia Human Body! Whatever topic takes their fancy, there's an encyclopedia for everyone!

Knowledge Encyclopedia Animal!

\nFinding creative ways to help children enjoy learning and reading is a perennial teaching challenge—one that The Oaks Primary School in Bolton has been tackling head-on with their stunning ‘curriculum doorways’. \nSitting right outside the classrooms of each year group, these themed displays are designed to be visually stimulating as well as educational. We spoke with Curriculum Lead Zoe Bullen and English Lead Katherine Robertson to find out more. 

Curriculum Doorways: sparking curious minds with creative classroom displays

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