By Mrs Woodhouse (Year 5 Teacher)

Year 5 have been exploring festivals from around the world using Visible Thinking Routines to gain a deeper understanding of culture. Through this approach, students were able to develop their critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as their cross-cultural understanding and empathy.

To guide their research, the students used different headings related to culture, including history and origins; traditions and customs; celebrations and activities; symbols and icons; community and social significance and global reach and influence. By using these headings, the students were able to organise their research and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the different elements that make up a culture.

During the activity they explored many different aspects. They used Visible Thinking Routines to observe and discuss different images and artefacts associated with each festival and the Visible Thinking Routines helped them to make connections to their prior knowledge, extend their understanding and challenge their assumptions.

Through this activity the Year 5 students were able to deepen their understanding of the different traditions and customs associated with festivals around the world, as well as the social and community significance of cultures.