Literary Legends Write Back
Exploring the art of written correspondence Year 5 were thrilled this term after receiving personal replies from their favourite authors.
The letter writing unit explored the distinct differences between formal and informal writing, learning exactly when and why to use each style. As part of their research, they analysed famous historical documents, ranging from Captain Cook’s personal letters to his wife to Leonardo da Vinci’s clever job application letter. They also mastered the persuasive language needed for formal complaint letters alongside casual invitations, thank-you notes and job applications.
To put their new skills into practice, each pupil drafted and sent a letter to their favourite author, sharing details about their own interests and asking insightful questions about the writing process. The classroom excitement reached its peak when several authors mailed personal replies back to them at school including Katie Kirby (Lottie Brooks series), Tom Palmer (Football Academy series), Phil Earle (When the Sky Falls), Liz Pichon (Tom Gates series), Abi Elphinstone (The Unmapped Chronicles) and Sophie Cleverly (Scarlet and Ivy series).
Seeing their hard work rewarded has inspired a renewed passion for reading and writing across the entire year group, and you can view photos of these wonderful replies in the gallery above.