Lesson 1: Packing for an expedition Key Stage 1 & 2: English

Investigating ways to keep in touch while on an expedition

Keeping in touch.

In early expeditions made by Captain Scott and his team the only method of communication was by letter. These would take a very long time to be delivered and a long time for a reply. Many families would go for months with no news of the explorers.

The last letter Captain Robert Scott ever wrote was left by his body as he died in the tent on that journey back to the hut on the Terra Nova expedition in 1911.

Communication methods have improved significantly in recent years, however, phone calls can only be made using satellite telephones. In the event of emergency, it can still take a considerable amount of time to raise the alarm and receive the required help.

Download lesson plan:

Purpose of study:

English - Acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language.

Write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences.

National Curriculum Aims / Attainment Targets	Activity focus
English: Acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language. Write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences. KS2 – Composition -evaluate and edit by: Assessing the effectiveness of their own and others' writing and suggesting improvements. Proposing changes to grammar and vocabulary to improve consistency, including the accurate use of pronouns in sentences. Proposing changes to vocabulary, grammar and punctuation to enhance effects and clarify meaning. Ensuring the consistent and correct use of tense throughout a piece of writing. Ensuring correct subject and verb agreement when using singular and plural, distinguishing between the language of speech and writing and choosing the appropriate register.	Discuss different methods of keeping in touch. Writing letters home as if a polar explorer.
KS2 – Composition -evaluate and edit by: Proofread for spelling and punctuation errors. Perform their own compositions, using appropriate intonation, volume, and movement so that meaning is clear.	Discuss different methods of keeping in touch. Writing letters home as if a polar explorer.

National Curriculum Aims / Attainment Targets

Activity focus

English:

Acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language.
Write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences.

KS2 – Composition -evaluate and edit by:

Assessing the effectiveness of their own and others' writing and suggesting improvements.
Proposing changes to grammar and vocabulary to improve consistency, including the accurate use of pronouns in sentences.
Proposing changes to vocabulary, grammar and punctuation to enhance effects and clarify meaning.
Ensuring the consistent and correct use of tense throughout a piece of writing.
Ensuring correct subject and verb agreement when using singular and plural, distinguishing between the language of speech and writing and choosing the appropriate register.

Discuss different methods of keeping in touch.
Writing letters home as if a polar explorer.

KS2 – Composition -evaluate and edit by:

Proofread for spelling and punctuation errors.
Perform their own compositions, using appropriate intonation, volume, and movement so that meaning is clear.