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Year 5 - English

Exploring character, setting and plot in 'How To Train Your Dragon'

'How To Train Your Dragon': reading

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils read and explore the illustrated chapter book, 'How To Train Your Dragon'. They develop their understanding of characterisation and build comprehension of the text through rich discussions. Finally, pupils explore the themes of loyalty, bravery and what makes a hero.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to show an understanding of the characters, plot and setting of 'How to Train Your Dragon'.

Key Notes

  • Hiccup is not a typical hero character
  • Stories may portray heroes in various ways
  • There are some common character traits heroes have, such as courage and determination
  • Authors can appeal to the senses when describing settings
  • Role on the wall is a reading activity that helps readers develop their understanding of a character

Vocabulary To Learn

  • hero: A hero is a protagonist with noble qualities, often saving or helping others.
  • character traits: Character traits are the special qualities that make a character in a story unique and interesting.
  • role on the wall: Role on the wall is a character analysis activity which encourages readers to infer.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils may find role play as Hiccup challenging.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Hiccup is not a typical hero character. Stories may portray heroes in various ways.

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

A hero is a protagonist with noble qualities, often saving or helping others.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Pupils may find role play as Hiccup challenging. Correction: Note down initial impressions and character traits of Hiccup from reading Chapters 1 and 2. Discuss how pupils might 'show not tell' these before Task A.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 English guide library.