Literacy - 'The Piano'

Over the past few weeks, Y5 have been studying film narrative. 'The Piano' tells the story of an elderly man (Grandad as he became known in 5B), who remembers some sad times whilst playing the piano. This film has no dialogue but is accompanied by piano music. The children learned a great deal - looking at how camera angles, light, sound and colour can portray the mood of the story. The children have also used drama to explore Grandad's feelings as he passed from one memory to another. This week the children have begun to write their own story related to the film. Check out the film for yourself and read the story openings below:



Emily R writes: Peter sat on the stool of the grand piano. It was sleek, black and in perfect condition. He slid his fingers along the smooth white keys until he tapped one. Suddenly, he was playing Sylvie’s favourite song. He remembered her beautiful grey hair that she always wore in a bun. He remembered the way she would always undo it until she got it perfect. Feeling her presence grow stronger, a part of his heart came back to life. A small weak smile formed on his wrinkled and weary face. She was with him. He knew it! She slowly kissed him. He felt it. Maybe she didn’t die after all! Realising this was a desperate hope Sylvie’s presence faded, taking Peter’s smile with her.

Remin also writes: Henry sat in a very dim room. He sat with his treasured Piano. It was his late wife's piano. She loved this piano Henry thought. Suddenly, Henry started playing his wife Maria's favourite tune. Henry could not control his fingers. Slowly, he could imagine his wife's image. He felt Maria sitting beside him. Faintly, he sensed a light touch on his cheek. Henry knew it was his wife. It made him very happy. Henry could not measure the love of his wife still inside his heart. "While there is blood in my veins, I will never forget her." said Henry.

I'm sure you'll agree - these are two very good examples of story openings. I can't wait to read the completed stories. Well Done Emily and Remin!