Tomorrow's Rules
Inspired by Magna CartaStory: Maisie gets to make ALL the playground rules. It's brilliant—until someone else gets the clipboard. A story about fairness and why rules work better when they're fair for everyone.
Ages 5-7 (KS1) • Character: Maisie (7 years old, Durham)
Lesson Plan
- Introduction to fairness (10 mins)
- Read Tomorrow's Rules aloud (15 mins)
- Class discussion: "What makes a rule fair?" (10 mins)
- Activity: Create classroom rules together (20 mins)
- Reflection circle (5 mins)
Discussion Questions
- Was it fair when Maisie made all the rules?
- How did Maisie feel when someone else had the clipboard?
- What's the difference between a fair rule and an unfair rule?
- Can you think of a time when you thought a rule wasn't fair?
- Why do we have rules at school?
Activities
- Draw a picture of your favourite rule
- Write your own playground rule
- Role-play: What if animals made the rules?
- Create a "Fair Rules" poster for the classroom
- Design a clipboard like Maisie's
National Curriculum Links
Literacy: KS1 Reading – understanding stories with familiar settings
PSHE: Rules and their purpose; understanding fairness; resolving conflicts
History: Changes within living memory (how rules have changed over time)
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The Girl Who Wouldn't Shut Up
Inspired by Winston ChurchillStory: Edie talks too much. Everyone says so. But when her village allotment is under threat and everyone else gives up, her big mouth is exactly what's needed. A story about courage to speak up.
Ages 5-7 (KS1) • Character: Edie (7 years old, Cornwall)
Lesson Plan
- Introduction to speaking up (10 mins)
- Read The Girl Who Wouldn't Shut Up (15 mins)
- Discussion: "When is it important to speak up?" (10 mins)
- Activity: Practice brave conversations (20 mins)
- Reflection: When have YOU been brave? (5 mins)
Discussion Questions
- Why did people say Edie talked too much?
- Was it brave for Edie to speak at the meeting? Why?
- Have you ever wanted to say something but felt nervous?
- What's the difference between speaking up and being rude?
- Can you think of someone who was brave by speaking up?
Activities
- Write a speech to save something you care about
- Draw Edie standing at the village meeting
- Role-play: Practice saying "I disagree" politely
- Create a "Brave Voices" display board
- Interview a friend: "When were you brave?"
National Curriculum Links
Literacy: KS1 Speaking – articulating ideas clearly; listening to others
PSHE: Self-confidence; making your voice heard; respecting others' opinions
Citizenship: Taking part in discussions; understanding different viewpoints
The Collection Jar
Inspired by the Royal NavyStory: Remi is the strongest in his class. Everyone wants him on their football team. But when his friend's fundraising jar goes missing, Remi learns that real strength means standing up for others. A story about using your strength to protect.
Ages 5-7 (KS1) • Character: Remi (7 years old, Portsmouth)
Lesson Plan
- Introduction to strength & protection (10 mins)
- Read The Collection Jar aloud (15 mins)
- Discussion: "What does real strength look like?" (10 mins)
- Activity: Ways to be strong for others (20 mins)
- Reflection: How can YOU help? (5 mins)
Discussion Questions
- What kind of strong was Remi at the start?
- How did Remi show a different kind of strength?
- Have you ever stood up for a friend?
- What does it mean to "use your strength for good"?
- Can someone be strong without being the biggest?
Activities
- Draw a superhero who helps others
- Write about a time you helped someone
- Create a "Kindness Jar" for the classroom
- Role-play: Standing up to playground unfairness
- Design a badge for "Everyday Heroes"
National Curriculum Links
Literacy: KS1 Reading – understanding character motivations and actions
PSHE: Kindness; helping others; understanding right and wrong
PE/Values: Teamwork; using physical strength responsibly
Teaching Tips for British Heritage Stories
Before Reading
- Show the cover and ask predictions
- Introduce the historical figure (age-appropriate)
- Discuss the value (fairness, courage, or generosity)
- Ask: "Have you ever felt like this character?"
During Reading
- Pause at key moments for predictions
- Ask how characters are feeling
- Point out illustrations and details
- Encourage children to make connections
After Reading
- Discuss the ending: Was it what they expected?
- Ask: "What would YOU have done?"
- Connect to real-life situations
- Complete activity sheets together