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Composition: Write a story based on a traditional tale

English Year 1/2
This unit is part of Year 1/2 Mixed Age English Planning Chinese New Year

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Group Readers

The Race Across the River

This beautifully illustrated retelling of the traditional tale explains how each year came to be named after an animal. The Jade Emperor’s birthday celebration turns into an exciting race across the river. Which order will the animals arrive in? This lovely story offers an opportunity to discuss place numbers, as well as fitting in perfectly with teaching about Chinese New Year.

You Will Need

Essential Texts
River Race Hamilton Oral Story on our YouTube channel
Dinosaur/Dragon Hamilton Oral Story on our YouTube Channel

Hamilton Group Reader
The Race Across the River by Ruth Merttens

Optional Texts
Selection of non-fiction books about animals for reference

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