In this project, students will learn what life was like for children and families during World War II. They will hear and collect stories from books, museums, and people in their own families or community. We will be exploring evacuation and emotions linked to this. Students will then create their own simple stories inspired by the ʻChronicles of Narnia’. Students will bring their stories to life using shadow puppets, incorporating learning about light and shadows. Together, they will share their learning in a class exhibition for families. We are hoping the topic gives our students a deeper understanding of why World War II shaped the world and how it should never happen again.
Teacher’s Reflections
I loved this project. I loved looking at it from a story point of view and allowing the students to design and develop their ideas into writing their own stories. We gave them the features of story writing, but their ideas really took on a life of their own, and the end results were so amazing to see. I also really enjoyed using AI to let our students see what their characters might look like and how their problems in the stories might present themselves. From these images came the ideas for their puppets as well, which they used to retell their stories to their parents. If I were to adapt the project further, I think it would be great to link this to their science topic a little more (light) and to have them create their own puppet shows – maybe next time!
– Emily bacon
Students’ Reflections
“My highlight was the rip to the bunker where we saw a old office” – Binyomin
“I liked making all the puppets” – Jonny
“I would like to go onb my trips and work with groens up more” – Anaʼel
