Inspired by: My Secret War Diary - Week 1

The impact of war on the lives of children during World War II is poignantly explored through activities inspired by "My Secret War Diary" by Marcia Williams. Students are encouraged to delve into the experiences of evacuees, known as 'vacs', through reading and role-play. One activity involves reading the diary entry of Flossie, a girl who did not have to evacuate but whose life was altered when evacuees arrived in Dorchester. Students then role-play Flossie recounting her experiences with the 'vacs' to her friends, considering which aspects she might embellish for dramatic effect. This activity not only helps students retrieve and present information from non-fiction texts but also develops their understanding of the human side of historical events.

Another poignant activity invites students to explore the emotional journey of an evacuee named John, through his letters sent from the homes of his aunts. Initially, John's evacuation seems like a holiday adventure, but as time progresses, his letters reveal a growing sense of unhappiness, culminating in his return home. Students are tasked with reading these letters, noting John's changing emotions, and then role-playing John sharing his experiences with his friends. This exercise provides a firsthand impression of the war's effects on children and allows students to engage deeply with personal historical narratives, enhancing their empathy and understanding of this significant period.