The Wreck of the Zanzibar - Session 7 - Worksheet

Session 7 of 'The Wreck of the Zanzibar' provides an enriching variety of activities for KS2 students. The session, which encompasses dates December 10th, 24th, and 25th, as well as the theme of Marzipan, begins with thought-provoking discussion questions. These questions encourage pupils to consider character development, particularly focusing on Billy and the significance of events such as the wreck and the turtle to the islanders. Students are prompted to ponder the impact these events have on the characters' lives, especially Laura's contentment with her life on Bryher.

The educational journey continues with reading activities that include plotting a timeline of events and engaging in drama to re-enact the salvage of the Zanzibar's cargo. Students are also tasked with comparing scenes from different days and creating a comic strip to illustrate the salvage operation. To enhance their understanding, they will work on reading comprehension exercises with additional resources provided. The session also aims to fortify grammar and punctuation skills by focusing on modal verbs, conjunctions, comma usage, and expanded noun phrases, with a workshop on selected vocabulary words. Writing opportunities are abundant, with creative tasks such as crafting a newspaper report about the wreck, writing diary entries from Granny May's perspective, narrating Billy's adventure, producing a leaflet to attract tourists to the Scilly Isles, and debating the ethics of salvage rights. Students can also express themselves through narrative poetry and book reviews.

Cross-curricular links are woven throughout the session, offering a holistic learning experience. Science topics include living things and their habitats, rocks, and forces. Computing integrates presentations on famous shipwrecks like the Titanic and the Mary Rose, while history delves into the Scilly Isles' past and Edwardian England. Geography lessons involve map reading, studying the physical and human geography of the Isles, and understanding climate and weather patterns. Artistic expression is encouraged through painting and sculpture, and design technology challenges students to create a model schooner. Physical education includes activities like rowing, sailing, and swimming, and PSHE focuses on water safety and the development of resilience, resourcefulness, and compassion. These activities can be extended throughout the topic, offering a comprehensive and engaging educational experience.