Inspired by: Farther - Week 4

The "Called To War" section of the learning material delves into the deeper meanings behind words and illustrations found in Grahame Baker-Smith's "FArTHER". Students are encouraged to ask questions to enhance their comprehension, such as interpreting the significance of the word 'claimed' in the context of the father being called to war. They explore the symbolism of poppies, thunder, lightning, and rough seas, discussing how these elements reflect the characters' emotions and the likely experiences of the father at war. The lesson continues with the class reading "Private Peaceful" by Michael Morpurgo, a poignant narrative of a young WW1 soldier's life and memories, prompting students to consider whether they would recommend the book to their peers and why.

In the "Love And War Letters" activity, students are tasked with understanding the purpose and audience of wartime letters written by soldiers. They are presented with an example of a heartfelt letter written by Company Sergeant-Major James Milne to his wife before going into battle. The letter serves as a model for students to write their own, imagining what the father from "FArTHER" might have included in his final letter to his family. This exercise not only teaches students about the historical context of such letters but also allows them to practice empathy and writing skills. Meanwhile, the "Missing In Action" activity introduces students to the use of ellipsis in writing, demonstrating how it can convey pauses in dialogue or narrative, or a character's thoughts trailing off. Students read or watch accounts of life in the trenches and then collaboratively re-tell the father's war story from "FArTHER", using ellipsis to create suspense and continuity as they pass the tale from one to another.