Prince of Fire: A Story of Diwali reading comprehension

This comprehensive KS2 lesson resource on Diwali focuses on reading comprehension, prediction and creative writing from a character's perspective, using the story of Rama and Sita as its foundation.

What's included

Free printable PDF (available to all) or subscriber-only editable worksheet, both featuring:

• Extract from Prince of Fire: A Story of Diwali by Jatinder Verma
• ‘Five senses idea bank’ worksheet
• Differentiated success criteria
• Deer template extension activity
• Teacher’s notes and lesson outline

Plus, for subscribers only:

• Lesson PowerPoint with story extract, prompts for prediction and explanation of point of view, and plenary activity

How to use these Diwali resources for KS2

1. PowerPoint presentation: Use the slides to introduce the Diwali story, guide pupils through the prediction activity and explain the concept of point of view in storytelling. The final slide can be used for the plenary activity.

2. Five senses idea bank: Distribute this worksheet for group brainstorming. Encourage pupils to think creatively about the deer's sensory experiences in the forest. Use this as a foundation for their story retelling.

3. Differentiated success criteria: Provide these to pupils as they begin their independent writing task. Adjust the criteria as needed to suit different ability levels within your class.

4. Deer template: Use this for the extension activity. Briefly explain rangoli patterns and encourage pupils to create colourful, intricate designs within the deer outline to accompany their stories.

Throughout the lesson, emphasise the importance of perspective in storytelling, guiding pupils to focus on the deer's point of view. This resource offers a creative approach to exploring narrative techniques while learning about the cultural significance of Diwali.

Looking for more like this?

For more Diwali resources, you might like to try:

• The festival of Diwali
• Diwali art and craft
• Rama and Sita activities