Additional text-based unit – A day in the life of an RSPCA inspector
This non-fiction unit has an engaging context that the children can begin to understand through carefully watching the RSPCA's film clip, 'A day in the life of an RSPCA inspector'. Speaking and listening and drama activities, as well as the development of the use of response partners, support the children in their understanding of both the information contained within the film and the different points of view of the people they meet through this clip. Oral rehearsal supports the organisation of the information and the sequencing of events in preparation for the written outcome.
Phase 1 (2 days)
This first phase introduces the film clip and encourages the children's responses linking this to their prior knowledge through discussion activities. The focus of the phase is to embed an understanding of the sequence of events and this is achieved through an interactive approach, using drama techniques and small-world play.
Phase 2 (3 days)
The second phase develops the children's empathy with the characters and explores the different opinions of people involved in the film. Preparation for hot-seating is crucial within this phase and involves the children in considering key questions to ask characters, as well as the range of possible responses they might receive. The fact that Tyson cannot talk introduces the important concept of the role of the RSPCA in representing the interests of animals in society.
Phase 3 (5 days)
In the third phase, shared, supported and independent writing activities allow the children to create a written recount of the events from a particular point of view. Children use structured oral rehearsal to support their independent writing.
Channel information • Teaching resources • Streaming video of all programmes