Inspired by: Weslandia - Curriculum Objectives

"Weslandia" by Paul Fleischman, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes, serves as an engaging literary resource for Year 6 pupils, with an array of curriculum objectives woven into its thematic exploration. The book is a springboard for developing positive attitudes towards reading, as students delve into an increasingly diverse range of literature including fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. Through the narrative of "Weslandia", pupils are encouraged to discuss and recommend books, identify and examine themes, and draw comparisons across different texts. The story also provides an opportunity for pupils to learn poetry by heart, prepare dramatic readings, and enhance their understanding of language through the analysis of the author's use of figurative speech and the impact it has on readers.

In addition to fostering a love for reading, "Weslandia" integrates spelling, grammar, and punctuation lessons that are crucial for Year 6 students. They are taught to apply their knowledge of root words, prefixes, and suffixes to understand new vocabulary, and to use dictionaries and thesauruses to enhance their language skills. Writing objectives include planning, drafting, evaluating, and editing their own work, with a focus on selecting appropriate grammar and vocabulary to refine meaning. Pupils also develop their comprehension and composition skills by summarizing themes, reading and performing related poems, researching ancient civilisations, and exploring verb tenses. The book's themes of individualism, social commentary, and sustainability are interwoven into activities such as writing diary entries, narratives, and balanced arguments, further enriching pupils' learning experiences.