PDF featuring story and activity ideas, plus Powerpoint version of story
KS2
Years 3-6
Use Pie Corbett’s historical fiction KS2 resource to help pupils write their own stories using similar patterns…
Pie Corbett wrote this story on a school trip to Hellens Manor in Herefordshire. The manor is one of the oldest buildings in the country. It was probably originally constructed around the time of the Battle of Hastings in the 11th century.
On the trip, he noticed that one room was called ‘Hetty Walwyn’s Room’. During the 18th century, a woman confined her daughter Hetty there for over 30 years after she ran away with a stable hand.
On a window pane there was a message scratched with a diamond ring. Of course, rumour has it that her ghost still haunts the room.
Pie has used some of the details from the actual house, paintings and artefacts to create a historical background, as well as using his imagination.
Historical fiction KS2 activities
To help the children write a version of the story, try the following ideas:
- If you want the story to be ‘historical’, use a class trip to a castle or old manor.
- On the trip ask the children to collect a few details – about the main setting, people who lived there as well as a few artefacts. Specific names and details make a setting seem real.
- Take photos of a key room or part of the building that you can show on the whiteboard.
- Build up two contrasting characters.
- Use shared writing to gradually build up a class story while the children develop their own.
- Draw a story map to show the sequence of events.
- Use drama to role-play different parts of the story.
Download contents
- PDF guide for teachers, containing the source story and activity ideas
- PowerPoint file presenting the story as a series of illustrated slides, for use with smart boards
More Pie Corbett resources
Browse a wide range of Pie Corbett KS2 stories and activity ideas.
Pie Corbett is an English educational trainer, writer, author and poet who has written over 200 books. He is also known for promoting creative approaches in the classroom and has experience as a teacher, headteacher and Ofsted inspector. Follow him on Twitter at @PieCorbett.
