Pupils in Y5 and Y6 can explore characters’ viewpoints using extracts from ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens. They will read two extracts from this classic literary text and explore Scrooge’s view of Christmas at the beginning and end of the story and compare these viewpoints with his nephew’s.
In the writing tasks, pupils will write a diary entry in the role of Scrooge (or another character) describing the events, and his view of them, from the two extracts provided.
This writing resource offers a fantastic opportunity for pupils to develop the voice of a character and maintain this across a piece of writing, a key element in writing at greater depth at the end of Key Stage 2.
This resource pack should be completed over several sessions and could be used as a writing unit within English lessons.
What is included in this resource pack?
- Two extracts from ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens – PDF extracts to discuss characters’ viewpoints and inspire writing
- Scrooge character profile – A PDF worksheet for pupils to complete
- Exploring viewpoint worksheets – two versions to be used after reading each extract to explore different viewpoints of the same event
- Diary planning sheet – a PDF worksheet for pupils to plan a diary, writing in role as one of the characters
- PowerPoint presentation – to guide teachers and pupils through the tasks
- Themed writing paper – PDF sheets of lined paper for pupils to use for writing
- Teacher’s notes – guidance on how to use the resource is given, divided into a series of six activities. Additional activities are also suggested.
National Curriculum English programme of study links
Reading
- Pupils should increase their familiarity with a wide range of books, including … fiction from our literacy heritage
Writing
- Pupils should plan their writing by noting and developing initial ideas, drawing on reading and research where necessary
- Pupils should draft and write by selecting appropriate grammar and vocabulary, understanding how such choices can change and enhance meaning