Inspired by: Leon and the Place Between - Week 6

The enchanting narrative of "The Place Between" from "Leon and the Place Between" invites students to explore the art of summarising key ideas from text and illustrations. The activity centres around the mystical realm that Leon discovers—a realm brimming with doorways leading to unknown destinations, where lost items resurface and from which some may never return. Students are encouraged to delve into the descriptive elements and imagery to deduce further insights about this magical place. They are prompted to draw parallels to other familiar places and to analyse how the author has crafted the text with a consistent tone, using repetition and careful word choices to weave a cohesive 'golden web of wonder' throughout the story.

In "The Show Closes," the focus shifts to character development through dialogue. As Leon reunites with his siblings, the narrative examines the transformation in their beliefs about magic, contrasting their perspectives from the beginning and end of the story. Students are tasked with identifying evidence of this change, paying attention to the spoken words and the manner in which they are delivered. Furthermore, they are challenged to consider Leon's own belief in magic and to position the characters along a 'degrees of certainty line.' The activity culminates with students composing their own ending to the story, reflecting on the characters' thoughts as they journey home. Finally, in "Possibilities?" students are invited to reimagine the story by considering what might occur if Pete, Tom, or Little Mo were to step into the magical box. They are asked to think creatively about the setting, atmosphere, and outcome, and to establish criteria for successful storytelling, ensuring their own narratives capture the essence of the original tale's success.