Brightstorm - Session 1 - Chapter 1 - Worksheet

Session 1 of the 'Brightstorm' series kicks off with an engaging set of discussion questions centred around the characters Arthur and Maudie, their relationship with Mistress Poacher, and the implications of their father's mysterious disappearance. Students are prompted to consider the impact of this event on the siblings and to explore how the fictional world of 'Brightstorm' contrasts with the reality of 21st-century UK. These thought-provoking questions are designed to delve into the characters' dynamics and the setting of the story, encouraging students to engage deeply with the text.

Alongside the discussion, a variety of reading activities are introduced, such as creating a timeline of significant events and predicting the future for Arthur and Maudie. Students are also invited to conduct a character analysis of Mistress Poacher and to pose their own questions that the text may have inspired. To further enhance their understanding of the language, the worksheet includes a 'Grammar and Punctuation' section focusing on direct speech, hyphens, ellipsis, and pronouns. A 'Words to Workshop' list presents a collection of vocabulary for students to explore, including words like 'engrossed', 'tension', and 'frayed'. Writing opportunities are abundant, with creative tasks like continuing the narrative, writing diary entries, letters, and newspaper reports. The worksheet also outlines cross-curricular links with subjects such as science, history, geography, computing, art, and design technology, as well as personal, social, health, and economic education (PSHE), highlighting the thematic significance of perseverance, cooperation, and bereavement. These activities offer a comprehensive and immersive learning experience that extends beyond the traditional boundaries of English literature studies.