Whistling Thorn KS1
Literacy hour units. Series
What’s inside...
The aim of this series is to provide a resource that supports the National Literacy Strategy, which emphasizes shared and guided group reading of a common text within the structure of the Literacy Hour framework.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the way the characters in 'Whistling Thorn KS1' solved their problems?
Can you tell me about a time when you felt like the main character? How did you handle it?
What do you think is the most important message the book is trying to tell us?
How did the setting of the story make you feel? Why do you think the author chose that setting?
If you could change one thing in the book, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use pauses after each question to give your child time to think and formulate their responses.
Show genuine interest in their answers and follow up with more questions to deepen the discussion.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences to make the themes more relevant and engaging.
Encourage your child to ask you questions about the story, fostering a two-way conversational flow.
Praise their efforts to articulate their thoughts and feelings, which can boost their confidence in expressing themselves.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and adaptability
Explanation: In 'Whistling Thorn KS1,' the protagonist faces various challenges in a changing environment, showcasing their ability to adapt and overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain resilient and adaptable when faced with new situations or difficulties at school or at home.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book often work together to solve problems, emphasizing the power of collaboration and collective effort.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of cooperating with others, whether it's during group projects in school or during team sports.
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: The story highlights the characters showing empathy and acting kindly towards each other, which helps them succeed in their adventures.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these behaviors in their interactions with friends and family, fostering stronger relationships and a supportive community.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: As the characters in the book encounter fearsome challenges, they learn to face their fears courageously, demonstrating bravery.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to confront their own fears, such as trying out for a new sport or speaking in front of a class.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: The book includes themes of caring for nature and understanding the ecosystem, which educates on environmental stewardship.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in activities that protect the environment, such as recycling or planting trees, and understand the impact of their actions on the world around them.