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Year 5 - English

Exploring and engaging with themes in 'Curiosity: The Story of a Mars Rover'

'Curiosity: The Story of a Mars Rover': reading

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils read and explore the narrative non-fiction text, 'Curiosity: The Story of a Mars Rover'. They explore the context of Mars and the rover mission and answer a range of comprehension questions. Finally, pupils identify and engage with the key themes in the text.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to identify and engage with the key themes in 'Curiosity: The Story of a Mars Rover'.

Key Notes

  • Since the text's publication, the Curiosity rover has continued to explore Mars' surface.
  • Innovation is a key theme within the text - the team at NASA had to think creatively and come up with solutions.
  • Revisiting a text can allow readers to discuss questions that focus on themes.
  • The Curiosity rover mission answered many questions, while posing new ones simultaneously.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • theme: a big idea, topic or message that recurs within a text
  • convey: to communicate a message to the reader directly or indirectly
  • innovation: the process of bringing about new ideas, methods, products or solutions that have a significant positive impact and value

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils may find it challenging to think of themes.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Since the text's publication, the Curiosity rover has continued to explore Mars' surface. Innovation is a key theme within the text - the team at NASA had to think creatively and come up with solutions.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'theme'

a big idea, topic or message that recurs within a text.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Pupils may find it challenging to think of themes. Correction: During Task B, discuss common themes and model thinking out loud some suggestions (e.g. collaboration, determination).

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 English guide library.