This is a unit of work from Reading Australia based on the novel, ‘Storm boy’ by Colin Thiele. This unit explores the time period, the geographical area, and the rhythm of the storyline and character development.
Structure and features
The unit of work is sequential. It involves:
- Connecting with the time period of the 1960s and the Coorong.
- Responding to the text – exploring the social, cultural and historical context of characters’ language choices; understanding the descriptive language of the setting; creating a book trailer.
- Examining language patterns – exploring narrative point of view and the rhythm and pace of the storyline.
- Creating text – do new things with the text like create a script for reader’s theatre.
For teachers
Students will need time and opportunity to share the reading with others. Most activities need teacher direction but could be adapted to a shorter unit at home with family support.
Links and files
Teacher notes
Focus areas
- Literature
- South Australian history
- Geography
- Narrative and plot
- Setting
- Characterisation
- Language change.
Curriculum links
- Australian history
- Geography.
Assessment opportunities
- Creating a book trailer
- Making a reading journal.
