Fairytale Reading and Writing in Year 3 – Hansel and Gretel by Anthony Browne.

In Year 3, we have been enjoying reading Hansel and Gretel by Anthony Browne. We split the story into three parts; the beginning, the middle and the ending. We have discussed in small groups the features of a fairytale and how Browne’s version also includes these conventions. Over this topic, we have developed our skills at using story mountains and maps to develop story sequencing. It is often tricky to remember the order of events in a fairytale, but we have used this approach in our planning to collate and order our ideas. We have also retold sections of the story using drama. Children have had opportunities to play some of the key characters; Hansel, Gretel, Father, Stepmother (also the Witch) and Narrator. We firstly planned which pieces of language from the text we wanted to include and then performed in groups in front of the class. We enjoyed linking the parts of the story together We have also been thinking about voicing our ideas through a debate. We have split into Team Hansel and Team Gretel to debate and decide which character can be regarded as the ultimate hero of the story. We evaluate arguments for and against each character using evidence from the text. Children then presented their debate and made their own decision. As a result, children have planned and written retelling of this fabulous story including a beginning and middle. We hope to complete the ending of the story next week.