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Year 5 - English

Developing an understanding of 'Front Desk' through rich discussions

'Front Desk': book club

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils explore and discuss the fictional novel, 'Front Desk'. They share their opinion on the text and explore the key themes of prejudice and discrimination. Finally, pupils discuss the characters in the text, as well as making personal connections and recommendations.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to discuss the main ideas of 'Front Desk'.

Key Notes

  • 'Front Desk' is a fictional novel, inspired by the author's childhood.
  • The text explores complex themes including racism, bullying, poverty and justice
  • The text shares with readers the importance of tolerance and diversity.
  • Throughout the text, Mia notices how people are judged based on their race, ethnicity or social status.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • immigrant: An immigrant is a person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country.
  • prejudice: Prejudice is holding unfair and unreasonable opinions or feelings based on limited thought and knowledge.
  • discrimination: Discrimination means treating a person or group of people differently and unfairly because of a certain characteristic.
  • theme: A theme is a big idea, topic or message that recurs within a story.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Everyone is treated fairly and equally.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

'Front Desk' is a fictional novel, inspired by the author's childhood. The text explores complex themes including racism, bullying, poverty and justice.

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

An immigrant is a person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Everyone is treated fairly and equally. Correction: By exploring the text and reading the author's note, it is clear that not everyone has equal rights. Pupils could explore charities like Amnesty International who campaign for equality.

More Lessons In This Unit

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