Jennifer Jenkins, Literacy Co-ordinator at St Paul’s CE Primary School in Nuneaton, finds the drama of Space Story an irresistible starting point for some out of this world writing.

Ideas for younger children

Set the scene for writing

Younger children respond well to multi-sensory learning environments and transforming an area of your classroom into outer space will provide a great stimulus for writing. You can do this with sequined, shimmery fabric, mirror balls and so on. Or cover the area with black paper, add twinkling stars and paint on colourful rockets zooming into space. Children can contribute by making papier-mâché planets from balloons. These can then be painted and hung from the ceiling. Add finishing touches with signs such as ‘Astronauts only’ and ‘Danger: rocket fuel’.