Inspired by: Circus - Week 2

Exploring the world of circus acts, students are tasked with retrieving and recording information about legendary circus performers and showmen, such as Phineas Taylor Barnum and Gerry Cottle. They are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences at the circus and to consider what elements contribute to an exciting and memorable show, including a diverse range of acts, value for money, and the essential 'wow' factor. The activity involves comparing two renowned circus shows, the traditional Ringling Brother’s and Barnum & Bailey Circus, with the innovative Gerry Cottle's Turbo Circus, and another unique circus, Giffords Circus, known for its village green atmosphere and glamorous performances. Through this comparison, students identify the unique qualities that make each circus stand out and discuss their personal preferences.

Another activity focuses on enhancing writing skills by using fronted adverbials and understanding their impact on sentence structure and focus. Students observe the Henriquez Family, a high-wire act, and practice crafting sentences that highlight their daring performance from different perspectives. Additionally, they delve into the art of songwriting by examining the Henriquez Family's breath-taking routines alongside the tune 'Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines'. They listen to the song, discuss its language and patterns, and are then challenged to write their own version of the song inspired by the Henriquez Family's aerial feats, capturing the excitement and admiration elicited by their death-defying acts.