Week 1

• Introduce the novel Charlotte’s Web to the class, focussing on genre (animal story), author and illustrations.
• Discuss the themes of friendship and loyalty with the pupils and ask them to come up with examples of these in the novel.
• Read the opening chapter together, exploring characters and setting.

Week 2

• Continue reading the novel and watch the animated film, comparing and contrasting key scenes.
• Discuss symbols and imagery in the book, exploring why character speak the way they do.
• Ask the pupils to create their own character with speech that reflects their personality.

Week 3

• Write a letter to Wilbur from Charlotte, exploring their relationship and the obstacles they face.
• Discuss the character of Fern, considering her journey and decisions she makes.
• Begin writing an essay on whether Wilbur was better off at the farm or the Fair

Week 4

• Free-write about the novel, reflecting on the key themes and ideas.
• Create an ending for the novel, considering different outcomes for both the animals and humans in the story.
• Begin writing a short story based on the themes of Charlotte’s Web, exploring a different animal group or setting.