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  • Reading

    We are continuing to explore 'The Lost Words' by Robert MacFarlane and Jackie Morris. 

    Today we are going to read 'Kingfisher' and then have a go at answering the questions! 

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    WALT:

    Now you have read the poem, have a go at the activities and questions below! 

    Wonder words

    What do these mean? (If you don't have a dictionary at home, you can look up the definition of words using this online dictionary here)

    ◆ feather-stream

    ◆ slings its arrow

    ◆ Halcyon (research different meanings for this word)

    ◆ Angler

    Try using them with  by creating different sentences.

    Seek, find, speak: Images 

    • ‘carves its hollow In the water’ - what image do you see in your mind’s when you read these words? 
    •  ‘slings its arrow superswift’ – what image do you see when you hear these words?

    What other word in the spell fits with the arrow image?

    Performance

    • Read the poem several times and think about pace (or speed!)
    • Which parts do you think should be calm and slow and which parts fast or accelerating (getting faster)?
    •  Practise reading aloud (with a partner if you have one).
    • Record and see if you can add background film or graphics.

    OPTIONAL CHALLENGES if you finish the activities above - choose the one you'd like to do! 

     Creative challenge

    • Create a dance to the words of the spell, possibly using long lengths of fabric for the river and ribbons to help depict the kingfisher’s movements.

    OR

    Quick abstract art challenge

    • Read the poem and list the colours it conjures in your mind.
    • Collect all the colours and materials you think you might need to create an abstract picture or collage to re-create some of the images in the poem 

    OR

    Research challenge

    Find out about the kingfisher and create an information poster or factfile

     Search: YouTube Common Kingfisher Catching Fish; RSPB or click here for the RSPB Kingfisher page.