Each lesson includes a brief descriptor of the purpose and scope of the lesson. Most lessons are supported with many digital resources indicated by:
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The first few lessons in each category are available for immediate FREE download.To access the entire lesson library go to our Subscriptions Section where you can purchase a yearly school subscription or individual teacher supscriptions to the full 3000+ lessons library.
Subcriptions for both overseas teachers and overseas schools are also available. Please email us at: starters@reap.org.nz and we will send you full details.
English Units
(000) MEET GREET EAT.pdf : [98 KB]
This unit (featured in starters&strategies Term Two, 2012 edition) is a shared reading exercise based on two student copymasters prepared by the ILEP National Advisers for Learning Languages. Copymaster One provides valuable information to help your students gain confidence and competence in negotiating the very first situations they will encounter in Chinese, French, German, Japanese and Spanish speaking countries. Students will also learn that studying a language in the 21st century is a lot more than learning words. They will look at everyday contexts and learn some expressions and just as importantly, explore the customs and world view that are integral to them.
(001)Copy Master 1.pdf : [172 KB]
Meet, Greet and Eat Student Copymaster 1. Discussion/shared reading copymaster to use in conjunction with Meet, Greet, Eat Teaching Unit. Features in the Term Two, 2012, starters&strategies Teachers Magazine.
(002)Copy Master 2.pdf : [158 KB]
Meet, Eat and Greet Copymaster 2. Vocabulary lists for Meet, Greet, Eat, Goodbye in French, German, Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish.
(02)Discovering Native Bats–Pekapeka.pdf : [1 MB]
Discovering New Zealand's Native Bats – Pekapeka A Science and Social Sciences major teaching unit where we focus on New Zealand's only native mammals – long tailed and short tailed bats – Pekapeka. We focus on why our bats are so special and what actions we cn take and are taking to prevent their decline and extinction. The unit is based on the work of the Allan Wilson Centre supported by Pete Handford of Groundtruth. Many thanks to Gillian Dennis (previous PhD student at Massey University, now Bat Recovery Project Manager for Forest and Bird) for assistance with providing lesson ideas and activities for this unit.
A YEAR IN REFLECTION.pdf : [287 KB]
Students are asked to look back on the past year to find – their discoveries, high points, family news, music, sporting success etc and then prepare an attractive newsletter to send to friends and extended family members.
ADVERTISING LANGUAGE.pdf : [113 KB]
Advertising has its own language. In this unit we get students to look at why an advertiser would choose one form of media over another, why they choose certain times, thinking about why they like or dislike a particular advertisement, features of advertisements they think influences people most and suggest ways that advertisements could be improved. Students are then challenges to design a magazine advertisement using mostly: pictures, words and a combination of both. HOW KIDS CAN BECOME SMART CONSUMERS AND RESISTING ADVERTISING TRICKS TEACHING ABOUT ADVERTISING – EXPERTS SHARE THEIR TIPS CLASSROOM LESSONS ABOUT ADVERTISING READ, WRITE AND THINK ABOUT ADVERTISING LESSON PLANS YOUTUBE VIDEO SERIES FOR KIDS ON CRITICAL THINKING AND ADVERTISINGWebsites supporting this unit.Video supporting this unit.
AIRPORT EXCITEMENT.pdf : Subscription Only Download [92 KB]
Visiting an airport is a most exciting experience for students. This unit encourages teachers to arrange a visit to an airport in their region. Even if this is not possible, the unit provides a wealth of English and cross-curricula opportunities.
ALUMINIUM THE WONDER METAL.pdf : Subscription Only Download [118 KB]
Students will investigate the history of aluminium, learn about its properties, how it is made, how it is mined and where it is made in New Zealand. Has a significant web research component. While it is a science based unit, it provides a wealth of English teaching and learning experiences. ALUMINIUM – PROPERTIES AND USES A succinct summary of the properties and uses of aluminium. HOW ALUMINIUM CANS ARE MADE VIDEO
AMAZON ADVENTURE 1.pdf : Subscription Only Download [98 KB]
The plane the students are on has been forced to make an emergency landing. All have survived but they have landed deep in the Amazon Jungle? They may have survived the landing but will they survive the jungle? How will they find food? Will they get out? A major and imaginative 'whole language' unit that students just love. Additional Resources for this Unit Virtual Amazon Rainforest Field Trip
AMAZON ADVENTURE 2.pdf : Subscription Only Download [88 KB]
The plane the students are on has been forced to make an emergency landing. All have survived but they have landed deep in the Amazon Jungle? They may have survived the landing but will they survive the jungle? How will they find food? Will they get out? A major and imaginative 'whole language' unit that students just love. Additional Resources for this Unit The Amazon Rainforest – Facts (Video)
ANIMALS IN OUR LIVES.pdf : Subscription Only Download [159 KB]
In this major unit students will explore the different roles that animals play in our lives, the ways we have made animals’ lives better and why it’s so important to continue to make the world a safer, more caring place for all animals. Students will also understand why it is important and how we can improve the lives of all animals including pets, wild animals, farmed and working animals. The unit concludes with finding out about the work that animal welfare groups in our community carry out to enhance the lives of animals and encourages students to fund raise for the local SPCA.
Antarctica the Place.pdf : Subscription Only Download [206 KB]
Antarctica is the coldest, driest and windiest place on earth. It holds an endless fascination for students. In this social sciences IT based unit, your students will discover the wonders of Antarctica and complete a virtual tour of this frozen continent.
BECOME A WEEDBUSTER.pdf : [1 MB]
BECOME A WEEDBUSTER! SPREAD THE WORD
Multi-level science, social science, environmental and English based classroom activities. Students explore just what weedbusting is all about, identify weeds to bust and plan and carry out their own weedbusting programme. The unit concludes with spreading the weedbusting message to the local community.
BEING A KIWI.pdf : Subscription Only Download [170 KB]
What does it mean to be a New Zealander? Where did your family come from? What did they bring with them? Why did they come? What do you know about the Treaty of Waitangi? What does it say? Why is New Zealand special? All this and more is explored in this major social sciences unit. We conclude by planning and running a New Zealand/Aotearoa festival at school. NZ Herald Article on Being Kiwi 7 Defining Characteristics of Being A Kiwi NZ Political Values and Being a Kiwi
BERLIN WALL.pdf : Subscription Only Download [129 KB]
LANGUAGE AND LANGUAGES The Berlin Wall fell in November 1989 bringing to an end, one of the most cruel and divisive episodes in the cold war and once again re-uniting Germany as a nation and re-uniting family members cut off from each other by the Berlin Wall. This unit provides an historical context to enable students to begin to understand the seeds of the building of the wall, the consequences it had and the jubilation that followed. The videos below will provide students with a powerful insight into the political and ideological folly of the Berlin Wall. The Fall of the Berlin Wall – Moments in History
BiosecurityMonthWeek.pdf : [7 MB]
BIOSECURITY MONTH/WEEK 2018 A major English, Health, Social Sciences, Technology, Science and Conservation-based unit to celebrate Biosecurity Week (23-28 July) 2018. Because it is such a major subject, many schools make the month of July their Biosecurity Month. In this unit we explore the mistakes we have made in the past and the effects they have had on our biodiversity. But more optimistically we look forward to a future where there is a heightened awareness of this problem. Many thousands of Kiwis now take positive actions to become involved in controlling, managing and eradicating these threats.
BRIGHT IDEAS FOR READING.pdf : Subscription Only Download [87 KB]
Six Bright Ideas for encouraging reading in your classroom. Try them all – they all work!Websites and Games for Developing Vocabulary
BUDDY.pdf : [88 KB]
English Unit based on a HarperCollins Book Buddy is the first novel by V M Jones. This award-winning novel will really appeal to adolescent students and best fits into the curriculum at achievement levels 4 – 5+. Students will easily relate to the characters and the real life nature of the adolescent issues will provide teachers with opportunities to plan for and achieve many English curriculum learning intentions. This unit includes a full plot synopsis for teachers and classroom teaching and learning activities
CAESER THE ANZAC DOG.pdf : Subscription Only Download [164 KB]
An English unit based on the HarperCollins book Caeser the Anzac Dog by Patricia Stroud. Perfect for student ANZAC Day awareness, general reading and social sciences. This is a true story highlighting courage and loyalty of a dog and his handler in war time. Caesar is an unsung Kiwi hero and this moving story highlights this little-known aspect of World War 1.
CARD COMMUNICATION.pdf : Subscription Only Download [87 KB]
Cards of all types and for all purposes are an increasingly popular way for people to communicate with each other, send greetings, express friendship … In this unit we focus on the importance of design to achieve a specific purpose and/or impact. Students investigate the different styles and appropriateness of various cards to an occasion. We also get students to look at the impact that type styles (fonts) have had on the development of cards. Practical applications.
CELEBRATING SEAWEEK .pdf : [86 KB]
Seaweek in the classroom is about encouraging students to think about the consequences of degrading the marine environment and thinking of ways – no matter how small – to take positive actions they can take to enhance it. Classes of all ages can celebrate Seaweek in any number of ways. This major unit provides teachers with English-centric cross curricula activities to use for planning and implementing an exciting Seaweek classroom programme.
CelebratingCulturalDiversity.pdf : [775 KB]
Celebrating Cultural Diversity Learners and families bring diverse and exciting linguistic and cultural funds of knowledge to the class and the school. It is vital that this knowledge is valued and represented in the classrooms. Using this unit will give your school a richer and more exciting learning environment and fulfils the aims of the New Zealand Curriculum.
ChineseLanguageWeek.pdf : [236 KB]
New Zealand Chinese Language Week (NZCLW) is an initiative that aims to bridge the cultural and linguistic knowledge gap between China and New Zealand and to promote the learning of Chinese in New Zealand. NZCLW involves fun and practical initiatives that assist New Zealanders to learn more about Chinese language and culture ranging from programmes and resources in schools and libraries to business and government organisations. Chinese Language Week is held in the second week of September to coincide with Chinese Moon Festival.
COLLINS NZ ATLAS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [103 KB]
English and Study Skills Unit based on a HarperCollins book. Every now and then a new reference publication is developed that takes the original purpose to a whole new level. The Collins New Zealand and the South Pacific School Atlas is one such publication. This atlas has been specially created for use in New Zealand schools and is New Zealand and Oceania centric. It allows students to view the world from the perspective that New Zealanders see it. This English and Study Skills unit provides teachers with practical classroom activities and atlas skill tasks.
CREATE A FESTIVAL.pdf : Subscription Only Download [98 KB]
Numerous activities to motivate English learnings based on the idea of exploring the purposes of and the many different types of festivals and celebrations people take part in. The unit concludes with students planning and creating their own special festival. Creating Multi Cultural Festivals at Schools Find Out About Our Holidays, History and Festivals We Celebrate in NZ (Multi-media)
CREATING LEGENDS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [141 KB]
Creating a legend is a fun and highly motivational way to involve the students in English activities. Great fun – and if a horrible and dangerous creature is included – then so much the better! Videos supporting this unit. Websites supporting this unit.
CROSSING COOK STRAIT.pdf : Subscription Only Download [91 KB]
Students take an imaginary journey across Cook Strait. What do they see? What do they do? How long does it take? Cross curricula activities including mathematics and the visual and dramatic arts. Additional Resources for this Unit
DESCRIPTIONS AND SOUNDS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [91 KB]
Two English activities. Activity one promotes accuracy in describing and interpreting descriptions. Activity two provides stimulating activities to promote listening skills.
DESTINATION PACIFIC 1.pdf : Subscription Only Download [117 KB]
Although classified as a social sciences unit – this is perfect for a major class English cross-curricula and related arts unit. Students choose a Pacific destination and have a wonderful holiday.
DESTINATION PACIFIC 2.pdf : Subscription Only Download [103 KB]
Although classified as a social sciences unit – this is perfect for a major class English cross-curricula and related arts unit. Students choose a Pacific destination and have a wonderful holiday.
DIARY CHALLENGE.pdf : Subscription Only Download [92 KB]
Why do people keep a diary? What makes them so useful? Students investigate, discuss and debate before they are challenged to think beyond the square and design a personal diary that will totally suit their needs.
DICTIONARY SKILLS 1.pdf : Subscription Only Download [104 KB]
Full development and coverage of these essential English and study skills. In these units, students will discover that a dictionary contains a wealth of information and is not just used to spell-check a word.
PINTEREST DICTIONARY SKILLS BOARDDICTIONARY SKILLS 2.pdf : Subscription Only Download [104 KB]
Full development and coverage of these essential English and study skills. In these units, students will discover that a dictionary contains a wealth of information and is not just used to spell-check a word.
DRAGONS BANE.pdf : Subscription Only Download [94 KB]
English Unit based on HarperCollins Book Dragons Bane. Intrigue, mystery, friendship, disappointment, danger, courage, discovery, treachery, magic, calamity, delight, excitement, fantasy, and of course, dragons – are all part of the mix of this enthralling children’s adventure from the pen of Auckland’s Linda McNabb. Linda’s dragon-centric novels have captivated children in the 9-14-year-old age group and this is no exception. This English unit includes a full synopsis of the plot and teaching and learning activities.
DREAMS OF WARRIORS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [116 KB]
English Unit based on Dreams of Warriors by Susan Brocker. Dreams of Warriors is Susan Brocker’s fourth novel for young readers and follows her very successful books, Restless Spirit, Saving Sam, and Brave Bess and the ANZAC Horses Set in New Zealand during World War Two, the story has a gritty reality about how tough life was for those women left on the land to continue farming, with husbands, fathers and sons abroad fighting.
earthquake.pdf : [299 KB]
LEARN MORE ABOUT EARTHQUAKES WITH WHAT'S THE PLAN,STAN? New Zealand experiences thousands of earthquakes every year. Most are either very deep or centred well offshore, causing little damage or injury. However, a severe earthquake can occur at any time with devastating effects. The Kaikoura 7.8M earthquake is yet another reminder of our need to be prepared. Use this single page live-linked pdf of essential resources at school with students; school leaders; boards of trustees and for your local community and parents. Make it available by downloading the pdf and placing it on your school/class website and/or facebook pages. It can also be printed out and sent home with school newsletters. More information and relevant links can also be found at: What's the Plan, Stan is linked to the curriculum areas of Health & PE; Social Sciences; Science and English.
END-OF-YEAR GREETINGS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [98 KB]
The end of a year is a great time to send greetings and news to families and friends. Students look at three methods – a flyer, a brochure, and a newsletter.
ENERGISING READING PROGRAMMES.pdf : Subscription Only Download [95 KB]
There are always times we need to re-energise our reading programmes. This unit gives many ideas that will stimulate your normal classroom reading programme – and the class will have a lot of un at the same time!
ENGLISH QUIZ.pdf : Subscription Only Download [101 KB]
A word study based quiz for early finishers, for homework, or for any time!
ENVIRONMENTAL CHOICES.pdf : Subscription Only Download [344 KB]
English based cross-curricular unit where students investigate the effects of car exhaust pollution on the local environment. Students are then challenged to take action in many ways to reduce the amount of pollution in the local area by involving the community in many ways to reduce the use of cars – especially the trips made to the school.
EXCITING SOUND EXPERIENCES.pdf : Subscription Only Download [134 KB]
EXCITING EXPERIENCES WITH SOUNDS A multi-level English based unit with strong links to the arts. Students explore the wonderful world of sound, through listening, creating and expressing ideas, identifying and classifying sounds and recording their findings in many ways. Students will discover that the ‘world of sound’ has not only a rich vocabulary (often heavily onomatopoeic) but can be recorded visually in a unique student-created form called graphic notation. Students will also learn that sounds can be interpreted, not only in written and spoken form, but through movement and mime. In a musical context, students will develop greater awareness of sounds and become more sound- sensitive – a prerequisite for good music making. What is Sound (Video) Sound Waves for Kids (Video) HIGH AND LOW PITCH GAME (Video))Websites and Videos supporting this unit.
EXPLORING ADVERTISING 1.pdf : Subscription Only Download [100 KB]
What is the purpose of advertising? Why different media are used and how do they differ? What is the difference between goods and services? Are we being duped or tricked? Does it provide a necessary service? What do advertisers say? All this and more in this 5 part unit where students explore and closely examine the art of advertising.
EXPLORING ADVERTISING 2.pdf : Subscription Only Download [94 KB]
WEBSITES AND VIDEOS SUPPORTING THESE UNITS Analysing Advertising Lesson Ideas Making Kids Ad Savvy (Including Videos) How Kids Can Become Smart Consumers Buy Me That (Video) Persuasive Techniques in Advertising (7 Lesson Plans)Websites and Videos supporting these units.
FANTASY AND MAGIC.pdf : Subscription Only Download [74 KB]
Students explore ideas about why this is such a popular genre of books for younger readers.
FITNESS FOR LIFE 1.pdf : Subscription Only Download [491 KB]
Cross-curricula unit on a fitness theme that will really appeal. Student learning activities include drama, debating, word study, focus on sports, brainstorming and much more. Can also be used as a health and physed focus. MIDDLE/SENIOR SCHOOL FITNESS ACTIVITIES
FITNESS FOR LIFE 2.pdf : Subscription Only Download [87 KB]
Cross-curricula unit on a fitness theme that will really appeal. Student learning activities include drama, debating, word study, focus on sports, brainstorming and much more. Can also be used as a health and physed focus. MIDDLE/SENIOR SCHOOL FITNESS ACTIVITIES EXERCISE LIBRARY OF FITNESS ACTIVITIES TOP 12 CLASSROOM FITNESS ACTIVITIES
Flu Pandemic Preparation.pdf : Subscription Only Download [149 KB]
A new strain of avian flu – bird flu has been found in China and again reminds us of the dangers of a flu pandemic. In this health and English based unit we look at influenza, its causes, the great flu pandemic of 1918 and how we can help prevent ourselves and others getting this at times fatal disease during winter. KEY FACTS ABOUT INFLUENZA https://www.cdc.gov/flu/keyfacts.htm THE FLU EASILY EXPLAINED (VIDEO) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esZGCKdtXnQ HOW THE FLU TURNS DEADLY https://edition.cnn.com/2018/01/24/health/how-flu-kills/index.html INFLUENZA PANDEMICS https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Influenza_pandemic FLU PANDEMIC OF 1918 IN NEW ZEALAND
FOOD FOR FUN.pdf : Subscription Only Download [520 KB]
Investigations into nutrition, taste, labels and food safety including recipes and making our own butter.
FUNDRAISING FOCUS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [97 KB]
Schools and classes have traditionally spent much time and effort in fund raising for a multitude of purposes and causes. All meet with varying degrees of success and many require substantial effort on behalf of teachers and pupils alike. This cross curriculum unit allows you to use fund raising as a stimulating focus for your class language programme (and make some money for that planned class trip or much needed equipment as an added bonus).
GREETINGS WITH IMPACT.pdf : Subscription Only Download [80 KB]
English based activities where students consider the reasons why we send Christmas and greetings cards and why certain cards stand out more than others – visual impact.. Students then widen this to include posters and brochures that have visual impact. Through careful examination, students now consider and identify the design elements that make these cards, brochures, posters, flyers etc stand out from the crowd and the success this has in getting the message across in each case. Students then use these design features and apply them to a Christmas card or greetings card. Strong links with the visual arts.
GUARDIANS OF FIORDLAND (01).pdf : Subscription Only Download [150 KB]
The sea provides sustenance and pleasure for all. To provide sustenance and pleasure for all, our marine environments must be managed sustainably and improved, both now and for future generations. Using this theme we introduce students to a little known and uniquely New Zealand solution to solving the problems of the Fiordland marine environment and how a disparate group, representing seemingly competing interests, used common sense and a gift and gains style to negotiate and come up with a special plan to save, manage and improve this special area. Two student copymasters follow this unit in the index below. FIORDLAND ON FLIM - ATA WHENUA A jaw-droppingly beautiful short film showing the majesty and magic that is Fiordland. A must-see for your students.
Guardians of Fiordland Copymaster (02).pdf : Subscription Only Download [150 KB]
GUARDIANS OF FIORDLAND STUDENT COPYMASTER 1
Guardians of Fiordland Copymaster (03).pdf : Subscription Only Download [2 MB]
GUARDIANS OF FIORDLAND STUDENT COPYMASTER 2 Guardian Angels – North and South Article
HEATING CAN HURT YOU.pdf : Subscription Only Download [98 KB]
If it can heat you, it can hurt you. This unit is based on an electrical safety theme with scenarios posed for discussion and positive action by students, eg 'what would you do if you were flying your kite and it became entangled in the power line'? Teaching points follow each scenario. Best suited for years 2-6.
HERBS AND SPICES.pdf : Subscription Only Download [107 KB]
A major unit where students learn about and explore the aromatic and wonderful world of herbs and spices. All English strands are fully developed and a web research component is included.
HOLIDAY PET CARE.pdf : Subscription Only Download [86 KB]
A shared or individual reading English unit based on an open letter about holiday pet care from Massey University Veterinary Services
HORSES AND PONIES.pdf : Subscription Only Download [125 KB]
As well as learning many facts about horses and ponies, this unit provides a wealth of English and cross curricular activities on a popular theme.
HOW WE COMMUNICATE.pdf : Subscription Only Download [92 KB]
A major English unit where students explore the wide variety of ways that we can communicate with other people and the purposes of communication. Part two of the unit encourages students to communicate with other students their age throughout New Zealand. A BRIEF HISTORY OF COMMUNICATION https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDkxsNmKDGk EVOLUTION OF COMMUNICATIONS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxTUC5I22LU COMMUNICATION OF YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyT6ReCEosM COMMUNICATION FROM THE PAST TO THE PRESENT https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v94EH_cE7GYAdditional Resources for this Unit (Videos)
IN PRAISE OF THE APPLE.pdf : Subscription Only Download [85 KB]
In this English unit, students will conduct surveys, investigations, use their senses and develop marketing strategies and branding – all based on the 'humble' apple.
INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGE WEEK.pdf : Subscription Only Download [212 KB]
INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGE WEEK Taking place annually in the third full week of August, International Languages Week is designed to celebrate the diversity of languages used in New Zealand and throughout the world. Although it focuses on five key languages taught in New Zealand schools: Chinese, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish, International Languages Week celebrates the teaching, learning and use of ALL languages. BUT why wait till August? Celebrate languages at any time of the year!
INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGES.pdf : Subscription Only Download [189 KB]
Totally practical and fun ways you can introduce your students to the Chinese, German, Japanese, French, and Spanish languages in your classroom. Your students will be really amazed at how much they know already.
INVESTING IN LOTTO.pdf : Subscription Only Download [85 KB]
Is LOTTO an investment? Students investigate, debate, research and also learn a little about compound interest in an English teaching and learning setting.
JADE AND THE STRAY.pdf : Subscription Only Download [115 KB]
JADE AND THE STRAY English unit based on the HarperCollins published Jade and the Stray by Amy Brown. Jade and the Stray is Amy Brown’s first novel. Although no stranger to writing – a regular contributor to magazines and a book’s editor – Amy Brown’s love of horses and ponies, and experience of pony club and competing, prompted this delightful story of friendship and ponies.
JOURNEY TO THE FUTURE 1.pdf : Subscription Only Download [89 KB]
A major 'whole language' experience where students become travelers in time and space. Fully cross curricula including drama, music, visual arts …
JOURNEY TO THE FUTURE 2.pdf : Subscription Only Download [100 KB]
A major 'whole language' experience where students become travelers in time and space. Fully cross curricula including drama, music, visual arts …
KAIMANAWA PRINCESS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [88 KB]
English unit based on Harper Collins book Kimanawa Princess. The plight of the wild horses of the Kaimanawa Ranges and the wild tussock country of the North Island’s volcanic plateau was the subject of much public debate and major protest action during the first highly controversial major round-up of 1000 horses in 1997, two thirds of which were slaughtered. This moving novel by Dianne Haworth demonstrates how we can all make a difference with strength of belief and commitment to a just cause. Highly appealing to ages nine years plus, Kaimanawa Princess is a novel of hope and joy that explores the close bonds that can develop between humans and animals. This English unit contains a full synopsis and teaching and learning activities – pre, during and post reading.
LEARNING THROUGH GAMES.pdf : Subscription Only Download [87 KB]
Students consider why games are played and what we can learn from games – in particular, board games. As part of the project, students will collect, analyse and display data.
LETTER WRITING.pdf : Subscription Only Download [107 KB]
In this unit we get students to consider attributes they have and others have. We then analyse attributes in people we admire and write letters to people we admire.
LITTER ASSIGNMENT.pdf : Subscription Only Download [81 KB]
An English unit where students use photographic displays to focus their and their communities attention on the litter problem at school and the local community. Students are challenged to take part in factual and creative photographic assignments and prepare visual/written presentations to highlight the problem. The unit concludes with a series of creative photographic activities which will stimulate much oral language. Additional Resources for this Unit CLEAN-UP ON THE NORTH SHORE - VIDEO
LOGO DESIGN.pdf : Subscription Only Download [93 KB]
Logos as visual identifiers have been around for hundreds of years. Since the advent of computer design technology they have assumed an even greater prominence. In this most popular unit, students condenser the elements that go into making a highly effective and distinctive logo before applying these principles to their own designs. Strong links to the visual arts. Additional Resources for this Unit
MAGICIAN OF HOAD.pdf : Subscription Only Download [90 KB]
English unit based on the HarperCollins book 'The Magician of Hoad' Margaret Mahy once again demonstrates her complete mastery of the written word and the fantasy genre with this powerful and compelling novel aimed at older adolescent readers. This English unit comes with a full plot synopsis and teaching and learning activities.
MIGRATION AS A THEME.pdf : Subscription Only Download [83 KB]
English based – cross curricula unit shows teachers how to develop a theme using any topic. The theme for this unit is migration – migration of people and animals.
MOA MANIA.pdf : Subscription Only Download [123 KB]
A fun cross curricula series of activities to celebrate our sadly extinct but fabulous New Zealand bird - the Moa. Use this celebration of the Moa to focus our students’ attention on the need to conserve our remarkable biodiversity before it is too late. Additional Resources for this Unit
OLD DRUMBLE.pdf : Subscription Only Download [90 KB]
English unit based on HarperCollins book 'Old Drumble'. Written by much-loved children's author Jack Lasenby, Old Drumble will stimulate the imagination and delight young readers with its forthright, honest, perceptive, vigorous and ‘anti-bullshit’ language that shows a rare insight into the innermost thoughts and imagination of a young boy. Most of all, readers (of any age) will just laugh out loud at the inspired madness and absurdity of the story, but will be delighted to suspend belief and enjoy these wonderful tall tales about Old Drumble. There can be no doubt he was the smartest drover’s dog there ever was. This English unit has a full story synopsis and teaching and learning activities.
OLYMPIC GAMES WORDS IN TE REO.pdf : [165 KB]
Te Reo Maori Words and Phrases for the Olympic Games. (Free Download)
PARKS ARE AWESOME.pdf : Subscription Only Download [84 KB]
A variety of English teaching and learning activities based around identifying, exploring, enjoying and appreciating local and district parks or recreational areas. Strong links to environmental education.Videos to extend this unit.
PARTY CHALLENGE.pdf : Subscription Only Download [92 KB]
A 'fun' English unit where students fully plan and host their own New School Year party. The party idea can however be used at any time and is particularly suitable for an end or beginning of term.
PELORUS JACK.pdf : Subscription Only Download [110 KB]
Wellington Harbour is the subject of many legends. In this unit we share these legends – both Maori and European with the class and learn about the legendary dolphin – Pelorus Jack. Students then investigate other New Zealand and local legends and paint murals and create dramas to enhance learnings and present to other classes. Additional Resources for this Unit
PENDANT OF EPOCH.pdf : Subscription Only Download [103 KB]
English unit based on the HarperCollins book 'The Pendant of Epoch'. This book by Alan Blomfield is a rousing and boisterous adventure that will have wide general appeal to year 4–9+ classes and with particular appeal to boys in the 8–13-year-old age group. Based on the premise of the reluctant hero, The Pendant of Epoch will capture and maintain the interest of readers as it races along at an increasing pace that makes it extremely difficult to put down. This English unit contains a full plot synopsis and pre, during and post reading classroom activities.
PERFECT PETS PERFECT OWNERS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [91 KB]
In this English unit, students create their 'perfect' pet and conduct research to find out the common and specific needs of a wide variety of pets. Along the way they learn that while pet ownership brings many joys and advantages, pet ownership also brings with it many responsibilities. Additional Resources for this Unit
PET CARE COPYMASTER.pdf : Subscription Only Download [41 KB]
Print out this copymaster open letter for students to use with the above unit.
PET LUXURY.pdf : Subscription Only Download [2 MB]
In this fun unit, students listen to and interact with other students to clarify ideas in the context of the world of 'advertising speak. Using creative thinking and brainstorming, students are challenged to come up with 'inventions' that will make the life of their pets just so much easier, eg an electronic bone locator for that forgetful dog! Students then take these ideas and consider how they could write these down with clarity and appeal to the pet- owner audience.
PROPOSAL WRITING.pdf : Subscription Only Download [95 KB]
The purpose of report writing differs markedly from writing a proposal. A report is mostly a summary of facts while a proposal is all about selling an idea to someone else. In this unit, students explore the differences between the two forms of writing and prepare and present a proposal for the teacher to sell the idea of an EOTC experience for the class.
PROTECTING OUR SPECIAL HABITATS AND ANIMALS.pdf : [5 MB]
PROTECTING OUR SPECIAL HABITATS – BIODIVERSITY IN ACTION New Zealand has a richness of distinctive and unique habitats including: alpine, drylands, estuaries, forests, freshwater, marine, farms, wetlands and built environments. Put simply, habitats are environments where plants and animals live. In this unit we explore these habitats to discover the diversity of plants and animals that live there and how we value them. We then identify pests and diseases that pose threats to these habitats and the measures we must all take to eliminate or minimise these risks. We then apply these learnings to our own district and how and why we must all become part of a New Zealand-wide ‘biosecurity team’ of 4.7 million to protect our environment. This 4 page cross-curriulum unit (science, social sciences, technology, English and environmental) is best suited to Years 4/5 – 10+ students
READATHON IDEAS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [69 KB]
Further activities to enthuse students to read in a Readathon of Book Week situation – or simply use them as part of your normal reading programme.
REPORT WRITING.pdf : Subscription Only Download [94 KB]
Writing a report is a very important skill for students to learn and plays a major part in conveying factual information in all curriculum areas. It is not a hard skill to learn as it follows a set pattern. In this unit, students will explore and use a template.
RESPECTING COPYRIGHT.pdf : Subscription Only Download [97 KB]
Major English based unit developing the idea that respecting and admiring creativity is as easy as respecting copyright. Student conduct research, discuss, debate and are helped to develop an ethical stance on this vexing issue. Students are also made aware of the very real dangers of P2P file sharing.
RESPONSIBILITY FOR PETS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [103 KB]
Pets play a major role in our lives. They provide us with many pleasures and joy – and dogs even help us exercise!. In this unit, students learn that pet ownership carries many responsibilities with it. Students investigate the five freedoms charter for pets. The major focus is on our two most popular domestic pets – cats and dogs.
REWARING SUCCESS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [103 KB]
Students are asked to consider if luck has a lot to do with success or are other factors more important – eg in the success of an athlete or sporting team? They then consider achievement, setting up personal goals and how we can encourage people to achieve these goals. The unit concludes with students designing and sending messages of support and encouragement to favourite teams and athletes to help them achieve their personal goals.
RUNAWAY SETTLERS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [91 KB]
English unit based on the HarperCollins book 'The Runaway Settlers'. The Runaway Settlers, written by renowned author and social activist Elsie Locke, was first published in 1965. Set in an authentic historical setting, the story begins in 1859, not quite 20 years after British settlers began to arrive in New Zealand. This much-loved and timeless children’s story now returns to print as part of the Collins Modern New Zealand Classics series. This English unit contains a full plot synopsis, pre, during and post reading teaching and learning activities.
RUNNING A BOOK LOOP.pdf : Subscription Only Download [85 KB]
Further activities to stimulate reading in your classroom based on the popular adult 'book loop' concept.
RUNNING A BOOKWEEK.pdf : Subscription Only Download [137 KB]
By presenting a wide range of cross-curriculum activities centred around books and reading, even the most reluctant reader can be caught up in the enthusiasm. An extensive list of ideas to include in your book week. 'They all work'.
SAMMY SERIES.pdf : Subscription Only Download [118 KB]
English unit based on the first two HarperCollins books in the 'Sammy Series'. Sammy Joins the Shooting Stars and Way to Play, Sammy! are the first two delightful books in a series that celebrates the joys, trials and tribulations of Sammy, who has a passion and a real talent for the ‘beautiful game’. Author Michele Cox is a member of the FIFA Committee for Women’s Football. Her passion for the game shines through in her writing, and 8-13 year-olds are in for a reading treat with these fast-paced, action-packed books published by HarperCollins. The English unit contains a full plot synopsis and teaching and learning activities
SAVING SAM.pdf : Subscription Only Download [84 KB]
English unit based on the HarperCollins published book 'Saving Sam'. Moving, disturbing, poignant, gripping, fast-paced, and thought-provoking are all words that can be used to describe Susan Brocker’s superbly written second novel for older Kiwi kids and teenagers. Saving Sam is all about a very lonely boy and a dog he comes to love and adore, and the special relationship they develop. Saving Sam is, however, much deeper than this as it deals with dysfunctional families, bullying and drug dealing – all issues that many teenagers may have to confront at some time during these often difficult years. This English unit has a full plot synopsis and teaching and learning activities.
SCHOOL DESIGN.pdf : Subscription Only Download [89 KB]
Students are challenged to design a school or an area of a classroom or outside area by taking into consideration, all the functions of that area or space including: teacher needs, student needs, equipment used, possible community use…. Students conduct research and interview students and teachers to find out how this area will be used. Students are introduced to a modern architectural language called pattern design language where many subsets are taken into consideration when designing the whole picture.
SCHOOL POSTAL SYSTEM.pdf : Subscription Only Download [95 KB]
Activities to inspire writing and letter writing in particular by setting up a class and school postal system. School-Wide Mail delivery System
SCHOOL UNIFORMS DEBATE.pdf : Subscription Only Download [87 KB]
English and cross-curricula activities based around a debate on the need for wearing school uniforms. Students examine everyday activities where wearing a uniform is commonplace and the reasons for doing so. A visual arts component concludes the unit when they become 'famous uniform designers'.
SECRET OF SPIRITS BAY.pdf : Subscription Only Download [92 KB]
English unit based on the HarperCollins published book 'The Secrets of Spirits Bay'. The Secret of Spirits Bay is the first book by Stephen Barker. This delightful, powerful and moving piece of children’s literature skillfully draws on and unites aspects of the past with events in the present, as seen through the eyes of a young teenage boy. It makes strong connections with our colonial past and the early interaction between Maori and European culture, and applies this to a contemporary setting. This English unit includes a full plot synopsis and teaching and learning activities.
SENDING CONGRATULATIONS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [96 KB]
Sporting achievements of our favourites are obvious choices for sending congratulations – often in the form of a card. In this English unit we get our students to widen their horizons and send congratulatory messages to include civic, cultural and personal friends, including classmates, friends and families.
SIMPLE EXPLANATIONS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [96 KB]
An English unit that promotes the use of plain language. Students are challenged to write a series of simple explanations ranging from giving directions to working home appliances.
SOUNDS LIKE FUN.pdf : Subscription Only Download [103 KB]
A series of listening and speaking English activities based around a recording and listening for sounds theme. Short and easy activities.
SPACE CHALLENGE.pdf : Subscription Only Download [94 KB]
English and cross curricula imaginative learning activities based on a space scenario. Students have been chosen to live and work on a space station above the earth for a year. Additional Resources for this Unit
SPECIAL OCCASIONS CARDS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [96 KB]
Special occasion cards are such a part of everyday life. In this unit we focus on why people enjoy receiving cards on special occasions and their advantages over a txt or an email. Students then focus on special occasions, both personally and at school and recall and share their 'best ever' received special occasion card. The unit concludes with a study of special occasion card design elements and students are challenged to design and send their own cards – including the 'lazy card'?
STAMPS FOR MOTIVATION.pdf : Subscription Only Download [81 KB]
Stamps tell us a lot about our country and our people. In this English/Social Sciences based unit we focus on New Zealand Stamps before challenging students to conduct research and design their own set of New Zealand stamps. Additional Resources for this Unit History of NZ Stamps (NZ Post) Websites List for Collecting Stamps
STRONG OPINIONS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [87 KB]
What strong opinions do your students hold and what about? Why do they hold such strong opinions. Are there any forums where strong opinions can be aired? Lots of language activities.
SustainableFishing.pdf : Subscription Only Download [502 KB]
In this unit students will: understand the special relationship New Zealanders have with the sea, including how it provides us with kaimoana and recreational opportunities
gain an understanding of the fragility of our marine envionment and understand the special measures we take, now and in the future, to preserve this precious resource for the futureWeb Links Including Videos
SYMBOLS AND SIGNS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [114 KB]
COMMUNICATING WITH SIGNS AND SYMBOLS Discovering the connections between written, visual and oral language and the effectiveness and importance that symbols can play in communication of messages in everyday contexts. Understanding the major contribution that symbols and signs play in the way that people interact with places and their environment in everyday situations. Understanding the roles that symbols and signs play in helping us create a safer society.
TASTE IS EVERYTHING.pdf : Subscription Only Download [127 KB]
In this creative English unit, students explore the sense of taste and how we sense different tastes on the tongue. Students then become 'creatives' at an advertising agency where they prepare a campaign to launch a new drink or jelly that will make this product as appealing as possible to target audiences. The unit concludes with students writing tasting notes for their new product.
TEAM READING.pdf : Subscription Only Download [196 KB]
TEAM READING A series of multi-level fun ideas for students to encourage them to enjoy their reading by participating as a Reading Team. 250 FREE ebooks on line from Oxford Owl Please note, to read an ebook you need to visit the 'JOIN US' section and provide an email address, a password and confirm your password to log in for the first time – don't worry – it's all FREE
TELEVISION IN NEWZEALAND.pdf : Subscription Only Download [88 KB]
After 50 years of analogue TV, New Zealand television switched to digital TV. In this unit we look back over 50 years history of television in New Zealand and how it has shaped our lives. 50 Years of New Zealand Television
TELLING MY STORY.pdf : Subscription Only Download [443 KB]
This multi lesson is about creative writing – a short story, a poem, or anyother form of creative writing that fits in with the theme of ‘My Story’.It can be serious, sad, formal, funny or even use made-up words and must be based on personal experience. Using activities in the unit, students will explore what creative writers consider, both before, during and even after writing their story. The depth in which you explore these ideas will vary depending upon the age of the students.
THE SHIPWRECK.pdf : Subscription Only Download [97 KB]
AN INTERACTIVE ENGLISH UNIT. The Shipwreck is an exciting interactive language experience. Activities include discussion, writing, drama, design, construction the visual and sound arts. Students can work in groups (4) with each group completing four distinctive English activities, together with an art activity common to all groups. The following ideas show the seven stages of the story and the activities that can be allocated to each of the four groups.
THE VERSATILE LETTER.pdf : Subscription Only Download [116 KB]
Even in this day of texting and emailing, the letter is still an important form of communication. In this English unit, students discover the purposes of letters, when they would write them, what they should include and how they should be set out. The unit concludes with a formal letter written to get information.
THE WORD WITCH.pdf : [119 KB]
THE WORD WITCH: An English/Reading Unit A tribute to the magical verse of Margaret Mahy.Tessa Duder, Margaret Mahy’s literary biographer, has painstakingly collected these poems and stories and combined them with the work of one of our great illustrators, David Elliot. Billed as a celebration of a lifetime’s work and writing, The Word Witch will just captivate any audience, no matter what age, with effortless rhymes and a musicality and joy that leaps off every page. The Witch in the Cheey Tree (Listen to the Story Video)
THINKING ABOUT CALENDARS.pdf : Subscription Only Download [83 KB]
Why do we use calendars? Are their different types of calendars? Where and when did calendars originate? Is design important in calendars. Can we design our own? English activities on a calendar topic.
TOWN AND COUNTRY.pdf : Subscription Only Download [97 KB]
Most students live in cities. Many are only vaguely aware of what animals live on a farm and how they are looked after. They may find the slaughter of animals hard to accept. They need to find out more before making a judgment. Major English bases unit.
TOY SAFETY.pdf : Subscription Only Download [100 KB]
How dangerous are toys? How safe are they? What toys were popular in the past? What toys are popular now? English and health based unit. TOY SAFETY WEBSITES Toy Safety Videos
WE WORK TO EARN.pdf : Subscription Only Download [179 KB]
WE WORK TO EARN (OR DO WE?) In this English-based unit we explore the concepts of work in some depth including, what is work, what is an occupation, what is a career and why we work, to start our students thinking about their future career paths. The video below is a TV2 (24 minutes) programme on what young people need to know to get their dream job.
WHAT WOULD I DO?.pdf : Subscription Only Download [86 KB]
Designed as an English speaking and listening unit where students are presented with many scenarios to discuss and come up with a solution to the problem posed. In doing so, students are encouraged to present solutions in clear and logical language, justify their solutions, show evidence of creative thought, and accept other points of view as there may be many solutions to the problem.
WHO OWNS IT?.pdf : Subscription Only Download [100 KB]
Using oral, written and visual language forms, students explore the concepts of tangible property and intellectual property leading to an understanding that people can own ideas. The unit concludes by introducing the concept of copyright and why we should learn to respect it. Students are challenged to come up with ways we can get this important message out to other students and our local communities.
WONDERFUL WOOL.pdf : Subscription Only Download [96 KB]
Science, Social Sciences and English related unit where students learn about the properties, economic importance,and the uses of wool – our wonderful natural fibre www.woolsnz.comhttp://www.campaignforwool.co.nz/wool (includes further links and video clips)