Episode 2:
A letter comes…
The purpose of this episode is to deepen the positive exploration of identity and diversity, both of ourselves and our classmates.
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…feel safe and confident to co-design their curriculum from their personal perspectives and those of the wider world (Principle 4)
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awareness of, and pride in, own individuality
positivity about the ways in which one is both similar to others and uniquely different
appreciation of diversity of cultures and societies within and beyond own experience
Suggested activities
Discuss the letter. What do learners think? How will we tell the writer about ourselves? Make the link to the bag from Episode 1. Establish with learners that the contents must be things that are precious or important to their character, and represent something of who they are.
Homework activity: Give learners a poly pocket to take home - can they bring in 2 or 3 small items from home to represent things that are important in their family life? An alternative idea might be to put a piece of A4 paper and a pencil in the poly pocket, for parents to draw/write 2-3 important things. You may also opt to do this as an activity in class as, for example, a play doh modelling activity: learners make items from playdoh that represent who they are or what’s important to them. This may be similar to or extend what learners chose in their backpack activity from Episode 1.
Learners present one thing from their poly-pocket/modelling activity to the rest of the class. This is an opportunity to discuss how to respond when we see commonalities and differences. In what ways are we the same? How do we feel about differences? Encourage an ethos of positive curiosity.
Support learners to write back to their character inviting them to come and meet the class. What questions might your learners want to ask?
Stimulus
A letter arrives, as outlined below. The email address you use will include your character’s name.
Dear Primary 3, I’m very sorry for leaving my bag in your class the other day.
I left it by accident when your Head Teacher was showing me around your school. I really love your school values and can’t wait to come to your school. It would be so good if I could find out more about you. Can I come to visit you? You can email me at (character)@X.scot - I’ll check my emails every day!
