Inspired by: The Lighthouse Keepers Picnic - Week 6

Inspired by "The Lighthouse Keeper's Picnic," students are encouraged to actively participate in discussions about the stories read to them, taking turns and listening to others' contributions. The activity focuses on a poignant moment at the end of the book where Mr. Grinling expresses his sheer delight during a balloon ride with Mrs. Grinling. Students are prompted to ponder why the author chose to have Mr. Grinling declare the experience better than eating, inviting them to interpret the character's feelings and the author's message. They are also asked to reflect on their enjoyment of Mr. Grinling's adventures, identify their favourite parts, and speculate on whether Mr. Grinling will maintain his fitness plan.

Another learning point involves understanding the use of apostrophes in contractions. Students explore this through Mr. Grinling's notes, where he records his resolutions after his balloon trip. By examining Mr. Grinling's sticky notes, which include phrases like "I won't eat any unhealthy snacks," students practice contracting phrases and discuss other messages he might write to himself. Additionally, they engage in a creative writing activity where they re-read their work to ensure proper verb tense consistency and coherence. They brainstorm what might tempt Mr. Grinling to overeat, such as a birthday or a village picnic, and how he could resist these temptations. Students then plan and write their own "Lighthouse Keeper" story, deciding on the title, main characters, setting, and plot, while focusing on Mr. Grinling's journey to losing weight and becoming fit.