Year 4 persuade a woodcutter to try to prevent deforestation

Throughout the term, Year 4 have learnt more about the causes of deforestation, as well as the effect that it has on the rainforest. This week, we used our knowledge to help us persuade the woodcutter from the story of ‘The Great Kapok Tree’ that he needed to change his actions. First, the children learnt that clear, well explained reasons are needed to create a powerful argument. Then, we began to think about using some emotive language and a rhetorical question, to try to make the woodcutter reflect on his choices. Using a ‘conscience alley’ was a good way to explore the decision that the woodcutter had to make. It made us realise that this decision may not have been such an easy once, since he may have relied on the tree for his income and to support his family.

As we come to the end of the autumn term, we will review our learning about the rainforest. I think we all agree that this has been a thoroughly enjoyable cross-curricular topic, where we have learnt so much. In the new year we look forward to beginning our next topic, ‘Natural Disasters’.

Of course, the main event next week will be our Christmas production! We hope that many of you will be able to enjoy the Year 4 performance on Wednesday afternoon. Thank you for your help preparing costumes for this. As always, your support is very much appreciated.