Inspired by: Tiddler - Week 4

In a captivating week of activities inspired by the whimsical world of Tiddler, children are encouraged to explore their creativity and narrative skills. The focus is on verbal storytelling, as the young learners are tasked with imagining why Tiddler might be late for school on a Wednesday. Drawing from a list of excuses crafted in the first week—ranging from seahorse rides to mermaid swims—the children select a dilemma for Tiddler and weave their own tall tales. They practice saying aloud what they intend to write, using predictable phrases to structure their stories, such as "At nine o'clock on Wednesday..." and "Sorry I'm late, I set off... but...". Before delving into the actual storyline, the children share their versions of Tiddler's latest adventure, and together they create a collection of Tiddler's Tall Tales, enriching their understanding of narrative and sequence.

Another activity focuses on the importance of capitalisation, particularly with the days of the week, as the children learn about the consequences of Tiddler's habitual tardiness. Miss Skate, concerned by Tiddler's continuous late arrivals marked by red crosses in her register, resolves to inform both the Headteacher, Mrs Whale, and Tiddler's mum. The children engage in role-play, simulating the telephone conversation between Miss Skate and Tiddler's mum, using the days of the week and time connectives to link Tiddler's imaginative excuses. They are then tasked with writing a note to Mrs Whale, listing Tiddler's creative reasons for his lateness, and crafting a reply. The week's activities culminate with a session on prediction, where children consider Tiddler's feelings and thoughts as he faces his tallest tale yet: being caught in a fisherman's net. This prompts a discussion on empathy and character perspective, deepening the children's engagement with the story.