The Final Year
What’s inside...
See that tall, skinny kid with the ball in his handsayin see ya later to his mate?That's me:Nathan WilderNate.
10 years oldand a week away from the end of Year 5.
Life can be tough in your last year of primary school. Tests to take, preparing for the...
Age
9-12
Length
36 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the characters' experiences in their final year of school make you feel?
What lessons did the characters learn about friendship and facing challenges?
If you were in the same situation as the main character, what would you have done differently?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in our town?
What are some ways the characters could have better handled their problems?
Tip: Role play these questions
Draw parallels between the book’s scenarios and your child’s personal experiences to make the discussion more relatable.
Encourage your child to express their opinions and feelings about the book, affirming that there are no right or wrong answers in such discussions.
Ask them to think about what they might do in similar situations as the book’s characters, fostering problem-solving and empathy.
Use examples from the book to talk about the importance of resilience and persistence in facing life’s challenges.
Keep the conversation light and engaging, using praise and encouragement to foster a positive discussion atmosphere.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of change
Explanation: The protagonist navigates the challenges of their final school year, showing determination and adaptability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace change and overcome obstacles in their own lives, whether it's changing schools, moving to a new city, or any other major life transitions.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendships
Explanation: Throughout the story, the protagonist relies on their friends for support and camaraderie, demonstrating how valuable friendships are during difficult times.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to build and maintain healthy friendships, teaching them the significance of support systems and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Value of hard work
Explanation: The protagonist's achievements are a result of their dedication and hard work throughout the school year.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of putting effort into their studies and activities, demonstrating that persistence is key to success.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and personal growth
Explanation: The protagonist learns more about themselves and grows as an individual during their final year of school.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their own interests and capabilities, fostering a sense of identity and confidence.
Example Lesson: Handling emotions responsibly
Explanation: The story explores the protagonist's emotional journey during their final year, showing how they learn to manage feelings of uncertainty and excitement effectively.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand how to process and express their emotions in healthy ways, preparing them for emotional challenges in the future.