The Secret of Platform 13 - Session 7 - Worksheet

During the seventh session of "The Secret of Platform 13," students delve into chapters 10 and 11, engaging in a variety of discussion questions and reading activities. The discussion questions aim to explore the characters' motivations and emotions, such as why Ben feels wretched and ponders over the Island, or the reasons behind Mrs Trottle's decision to abscond with Raymond. These questions are aligned with specific Reading Standards, encouraging students to think critically about the text.

In addition to the discussions, the session includes a series of reading activities that help students track the narrative's progression through a timeline and make predictions about future events. A focus on reading comprehension ensures a deep understanding of the chapters. Students also embark on a Grammar Hunt to identify various elements of English grammar within the text, such as pronouns, noun phrases, plurals, and the use of apostrophes for possession. Vocabulary is also a key component, with a 'Words to Workshop' section that introduces a range of descriptive words and phrases for students to learn and use effectively in their writing.

On the writing front, creative opportunities abound. Students can write diary entries from Mrs Trottle's perspective, draft a newspaper report on her and Raymond's disappearance, or design wanted posters for the characters. A personal letter from Ben to Nanny Brown offers a chance to express Ben's desire to live on the Island in his own words. The session also extends beyond English, with cross-curricular links to subjects such as Science, Computing, Geography, Art, Design and Technology (DT), Music, and Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education. These activities encourage students to apply their learning in a variety of contexts, from understanding scientific concepts to exploring values like integrity and tolerance.