The Hodgeheg - Session 1 - Chapter 1 and 2 - Worksheet

In the opening session of "The Hodgeheg," students delve into the first two chapters with a variety of engaging activities designed to enhance their comprehension and analytical skills. Discussion questions prompt them to think critically about the events that have unfolded, such as Auntie Betty's fate and the reasons behind Pa's road safety lecture to the young hedgehogs. Max's motivation to find a safe road crossing method is also explored, encouraging students to reflect on the characters' actions and the story's themes.

A host of reading activities are outlined to deepen students' engagement with the text. They are tasked with drawing a map to visualise the hedgehogs' neighbourhood and tracking their movements, creating a timeline of significant events, and conducting a character analysis of Ma and Pa. Comprehension exercises further test their understanding, while a grammar hunt sharpens their skills in identifying direct speech, question marks, adverbs, prepositions, and an array of vocabulary words. Writing opportunities are also provided, ranging from researching hedgehogs for a report to crafting instructions on using a zebra crossing and composing a newspaper article about hedgehog road fatalities.

The lesson plan extends beyond English literature, incorporating cross-curricular links to various subjects. In science, students can explore topics like plants, animals, light, habitats, and electricity. Computing activities include creating a maze game and a road safety quiz, as well as preparing a hedgehog presentation. Geography tasks involve mapping skills and fieldwork, while art projects encourage creativity through sketching and sculpture using natural materials. Design and Technology (DT) sees students making soft toy hedgehogs with textiles, and in Physical Education (PE), gymnastics rolling skills are honed. Music lessons may involve listening to the "Sonic the Hedgehog" soundtrack as a stimulus for composing original pieces. Religious Education (RE) discussions focus on compassion to animals across different faiths, and Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education emphasizes problem-solving, resilience, perseverance, and humour, all within the context of road safety.