Children creatively unlock secrets of a UFO
Katy Morton
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
When children from an infant and nursery school discovered a UFO in their playground they conducted a month-long investigation to find out how and why it was there.
Their research was part of a cross-curricular project called Who Talks? Who Listens?, designed to develop children's key skills through questioning, speaking, listening and problem-solving and help them learn about the importance of looking after the environment.
It was funded by Creative Partnerships, a creative learning programme delivered by the annual Norfolk and Norwich arts festival.
Children aged three to seven from Sparhawk Infant and Nursery School in Sprowston, Norwich, uncovered clues and messages to solve the mystery of a strange white flashing globe.
The child-led investigation was captured in a documentary-style film with the help of local film-makers Top Box Media and actors from international theatre company Garlic Theatre.
With the help of 'Dr Jim', children discovered objects from inside the globe's secret compartment, including a crystal to represent light and the importance of the atmosphere, a piece of seaweed to represent the effect pollution has on beaches, a plastic whale, a whale sounds tape, a piece of metal with holes and a mysterious bean-shaped object.
After each discovery they were interviewed by 'Kate the reporter' to share their ideas and emotions.
The children also took part in role-play, speaking and listening and problem-solving activities.
Sparhawk head Carina Ingham said, 'The children were really excited when the UFO first arrived. The project gave them the opportunity to question and learn through talking, developing their confidence and key skills, which will help them as they move up the school'.
A screening of the film at the school on 12 May was attended by children, parents, governors, local councillors and other schools.
To see the film, visit www.eveningnews24.co.uk.
