Writing

In Spring 1, we will begin by using "Freedom Bird" as our stimulus for writing 

 

 

 

Freedom Bird.jpg

 

 

This important book by Jerdine Nolen tells the inspiring story of an enslaved brother and sister who dream their way to freedom. In the tradition of African American folktales, the motif of flying and recurrent theme of freedom are explored.  Told in prose reminiscent of oral storytelling, the book provides a context for children to explore the history of transatlantic slavery and humanises the suffering and bravery of people who had no other choice.  Providing links to the history and PSHE curriculums, themes of courage, hopes and dreams are also woven throughout. 

Author: Jerdine Nolen

 

This unit is based on Freedom Bird by Jerdine Nolen, which tells the story of John and Millicent Wheeler, whose parents were sold as enslaved people and who now live and work on Simon Plenty’s North Carolina Plantation.  Before being sold, their parents told them stories of how one day their people would fly away to freedom; these are the hopes and dreams that remain alive in their hearts.  The sequence of learning begins with children considering the difference between their needs and wants, before going on to research the history of the transatlantic slave trade in America.  Children will write in role as the enslaved children, considering their experiences from a first-hand perspective, create dialogue of a conversation between the two siblings and write them a letter of advice to help them through their situation.  The Writing Root culminates with children writing a biography of Harriet Tubman, one of the most famous conductors on the Underground Railroad.

 

 


Spelling

During our writing lessons, we will be focussing on:

Word List Words

accompany, desperate, necessary, persuade, prejudice, privilege, sufficient

Spelling Rules and Patterns

Words containing the suffix –ate, –ify, – en

 

Continue to learn all your spellings from  the Year 5 and 6 Statutory Speling List which can be found here

 

You can play some games to help you learn them on the sites below:

https://spellingframe.co.uk/

http://www.ictgames.com/mobilePage/spookySpellings/index.html

http://www.ictgames.com/mobilePage/lcwc/index.html

 

Files to Download