The Secret of Platform 13 - Session 11 - Worksheet

In Session 11 of 'The Secret of Platform 13', students delve into chapters 19 to 21 and engage with a variety of discussion questions and reading activities designed to enhance comprehension and analytical skills. They ponder the motivations behind Nanny Brown giving Ben a letter and explore the actions and decisions of characters such as Ben's arrival on the Island, Odge's move into a cave, and the revelation of the true Prince. These discussion points encourage students to think critically about the narrative and character development.

The session also includes a range of activities to support students' literacy skills. They are tasked with completing a timeline to track the events of the story, writing book reviews, and answering reading comprehension questions. Grammar and punctuation are addressed through a 'Grammar Hunt' where students look for examples of adverbs, direct speech, and paragraphs within the text. Additionally, 'Words to Workshop' provides a list of vocabulary words for students to explore, ranging from 'disgrace' and 'trudging' to 'transfigured' and 'ingratitude', aiming to expand their understanding and use of language. Writing opportunities allow for creative expression, with students writing diary entries from the perspectives of Ben or Odge, as well as composing a letter from Ben to the King and Queen recommending Odge for a courage award.

Cross-curricular links are made to subjects such as Science, with topics including plants, living things and their habitats, states of matter, and sound. Computing involves creating an animation of the magic show, while Geography requires students to name and locate counties and cities in the UK. Artistic skills are harnessed as students paint portraits of the reunion between the King, Queen, and Ben, and in Design and Technology, they make a model of Odge's bedroom in the palace. Music appreciation is encouraged by listening to playlists suitable for afternoon tea at The Astor Hotel. Finally, the session touches on Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education themes such as integrity, respect, difference, tolerance, and self-control, promoting a holistic approach to learning.