Let’s Meet …. King Alfred the Great Let’s Meet Series (so far) 2 speakers (famous person plus interviewer) 5 minutes reading time (not including quizzes) • Alfred the Great • Boudicca • Henry VIII • Henry VIII – 2 scripts & 2 quizzes: Wives The Reformation • Elizabeth I • Florence Nightingale • Vincent Van Gogh Plus scripts between • Queen Victoria and Elizabeth I • Florence Nightingale and Mary Seacole This series of reading texts based on famous characters – past and present –will include monarchs, adventurers, poets, inventors, politicians, space explorers with two objectives: To Bring History Alive (as with my plays) To make reading a more lively, interactive experience – for both student and teacher Also available: Vincent Van Gogh – a Monologue (plus quiz and discussion suggestions) Plus • Meet the Anglo-Saxons Guided Readers (See detailed breakdown after quiz) • Wonderful Winchester Assembly or Class Play Sample Text: Interviewer: Good afternoon! And you must be King Alfred Alfred: The Great! Please don’t forget that bit! Interviewer: The only one of our kings to have that title Alfred: And well deserved, may I add! Interviewer: To be sure! (Aside) Though why he needs to keep reminding me … Alfred: So, as your memory did have that slight falter, shall I help you Interviewer: Remember how great you were? Alfred: Oh, that would be a little presumptuous. I’ll just settle for why I was Great! Interviewer: (Aside) Amazing how little some egos need in the way of encouragement! Very well. Let’s hear it. Alfred: Maybe we should start with my scholarly skills. Interviewer: Yes, I have heard you were quite the student! Alfred: And I made sure everyone else benefitted from my knowledge – all that Latin in our books turned into something we could understand! Interviewer: So, wait a minute. Before we get totally stuck into what made you great Alfred: I can’t wait!

The Gorgons Head Lesson Plan and Guided Reading Script and Quiz Each 'package' consists of lesson plan plus guided reading script (6 speakers) plus quiz/reading comprehension. Lesson Plan (Around 20 – 30 minutes) The lesson time can be reduced to 20 minutes by e.g. omission of quiz/discussion. The script takes around 5 minutes reading time. The quiz takes around 5 – 10 minutes. These resources accommodate both small group and all class engagement. As explained in the lesson plan, whilst a group of six speakers read the script, the rest of the class (divided into teams) follows in order to answer questions that follow. There are also some ideas for follow up discussion, time permitting. Time allowance is flexible - from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on how much of the package is used. This script, along with four others (Theseus and the Minotaur, Odysseus and the Cyclops, Pandora's Box and The Tale of Two Spinners) is available as one product - The Ancient Greek Myths Guided Reading Scripts Sample Text Polydectus: Women! Nothing but trouble! Perseus: I’d be careful what you say, if I were you! I think we’re a bit out- numbered here today! Medusa: Correct! I, Medusa, am here today representing my two immortal Gorgon sisters, Stheno and Euryate. Shame I wasn’t! Athene: Well, don’t go expecting any sympathy from me! Messing around in my temple, with that Poseidon! You deserved what you got! Beauty is only for those who deserve it! You certainly didn’t! Medusa: And you made sure no one would look twice in our direction! Danae: What! With all those snakes for hair! I’d say not! Athene: Plus that other one small detail – that once someone did look in their direction, they didn’t make the same mistake again! They couldn’t! Quiz Sample 1. Who wanted to marry Danae? 2. Who was the son of Danae? 3. Why was Polydectes apparently so annoyed at his wedding? 4. What did Polydectes trick Perseus into saying? 5. What did he ask for? 6. Why did he want Perseus out of the way?

Odysseus and the Cyclops lesson plan, guided reading script & quiz Each 'package' consists of lesson plan plus guided reading script (6 speakers) plus quiz/reading comprehension. Lesson Plan (Around 20 - 30 minutes) The lesson time can be reduced to 20 minutes by e.g. omission of quiz/discussion. The script takes around 10 minutes reading time. The quiz takes around 5 – 10 minutes. These resources accommodate both small group and all class engagement. As explained in the lesson plan, whilst a group of six speakers read the script, the rest of the class (divided into teams) follows in order to answer questions that follow. There are also some ideas for follow up discussion, time permitting. Time allowance is flexible - from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on how much of the package is used. This script, along with four others (Theseus and the Minotaur, The Gorgon's Head, Pandora's Box and The Tale of Two Spinners) is available as one product - The Ancient Greek Myths Guided Reading Scripts Sample text: Greek warrior 2 (laughing): Yes, we’ve heard how being a blacksmith was just a little bit too taxing for you! Did being born with only one eye mean you were only born with half a brain? Cyclops 2: How rude! Though I guess it was a shame we forgot our old blacksmith skills. Polyphemus: Even though I would never have driven a red-hot stake into the eye of any creature. Greek warrior 1: Not even one that was holding you captive, and eating 2 men for breakfast and supper, every day? Odysseus: Real convenience food, we were! Polyphemus: Well, you did make a welcome change from lamb stew! Poseidon: Enough! Here I am, trying to defend you, Polyphemus, and all you can do is confirm their story! What are you? Stupid, or something? Sample Quiz/Reading Comprehension Questions • What animals did Cyclops look after? • What trade had Zeus originally trained the Cyclops for? • How did Polyphemus prevent Odysseus and his men from escaping from his cave? • Why did the Cyclops not help Polyphemus? • What did Odysseus use to dull Polyphemus’s senses ..even more?

World Cup 2018 Quiz 100 questions (and answers!) on this year's World Cup and those that have gone before. Enjoy! Also available: World Cup Assembly, World Cup Leavers Assembly, World Cup Guided Readers plus resources on participating countries. Sample Text: I Quirky Facts 1. Who used to practice with a slipper on his right foot and why? 2. Where was the original world cup trophy kept during the Second World War? II 2018 World Cup 1. How often is the World Cup held? 2. Where is the 2018 World Cup being held? III History 1. When was the first World Cup held? 2. Where was it held? IV Records 1. What country has made the most appearances – the only country to have appeared in every World Cup? 2. How many appearances has this country made? V Quotations 1. Who said “Some people believe football is a matter of life and death. I’m very disappointed with that attitude. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that.” – said to be the greatest football saying in 2006?

St. George's Day Poem (or Ode to St. George) This poem was written in celebration of St. George's Day. It's about championing the cause of a national holiday and celebrating England as a country. Sample text: Rule Britannia! St. George's Day is here. England never shall have Anything to fear! Land of Hope and Glory Mother of the Free We have no national holiday Now how can that be? St. George, get off your charger And come and sort this out. If you truly champion valour Then leave us in no doubt. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Following emboldened text spoken by St. George) OK, I wasn't born in England That is certainly true. I was actually born in the Middle East When Christianity was taboo. But wait a while, have you not heard Exactly how I lost my head? In defending my own Christian faith I ended up .... Dead! An inspiration To those Crusaders later. If you don't believe me, kids, Go check your data! I know how much England Means to you. Keep pride in your country Trust me ‐ I do! It's a while since I fought For any worthwhile cause. But give me a chance And I'll champion yours! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- England has history that goes on forever (Makes up, perhaps, for our crummy weather!) England produced the Beatles, the Stones and the Who And a capital city, London - equaled by few. England serves the very best tea England has health care that is free. England is the place to be England is the land of the free.

Theseus and the Minotaur Lesson Plan, Guided Reading Script and Quiz Each 'package' consists of guided reading script (6 speakers) plus lesson plan and quiz/reading comprehension; and accommodates both small group and all class engagement. As explained in the lesson plan, whilst a group of six speakers read the script, the rest of the class (divided into teams) follows in order to answer questions that follow. There are also some ideas for follow up discussion, time permitting. Lesson Plan (Around 20 - 30 minutes) The lesson time can be reduced to 20 minutes by e.g. omission of quiz/discussion. The script takes around 10 minutes reading time. The quiz takes around 5 – 10 minutes. This script, along with four others (Odysseus and the Cyclops, The Gorgon's Head, Pandora's Box and The Tale of Two Spinners) is available as one product - The Ancient Greek Myths Guided Reading Scripts. These scripts are also available separately as guided reading scripts, lesson plans and quizzes. Sample Text: Pasiphae: This is a tale of two cities. Aegeus: Athens Minos: And Crete. It has vile villains Theseus: A noble hero Pasiphae: A wronged wife Minotaur: And a hideous monster. Minos: It is a tale of deceit Pasiphae: Of shame Aegeus: Of murder Minos: Of revenge Aegeus: Of sacrifice Theseus: Of bravery Ariadne: Of love Aegeus: Of victory Theseus: And of terrible tragedy. Ariadne: So let’s see how this tale unfolds. Starting with the deceit. Quiz Sample 1. What was the name of the father of Theseus? 2. He was the king of which city? 3. Who was the king of Crete? 4. What was the name of his wife? 5. What was the name of their daughter? 6. What was the name of her half-brother? 7. Who would you say was a ‘vile villain’? 8. Who was the hero? 9. Who was the wronged wife?

Winter Olympics Quiz 1924 - 2022 Another Winter Olympics resource - to add to my class play and set of guided reading scripts - all updated to 2022 with over 100 questions - with answers provided! Here’s a sample: Winter Olympics Quiz I. 2018 Winter Olympics – PyeongChang, South Korea II. Previous Winter Olympics – Russia 2014 III. A History of the Winter Olympics 1924 – 2014 IV. Memorable Moments from Past Olympics V. Winners and Record Breakers Sample Text: I. 2018 Winter Olympics – PyeongChang, South Korea 1. What animal is the 2018 mascot, Soohorang, based on? 2. What is the connection between the length of the torch and PyeongChang? 3. How many events will there be? 4. How many sports? 5. Can you name four of these? II. 22nd Winter Olympics – Russia 2014 1. Around how many countries are taking part? 2. How many sports/disciplines are being played? 3. How many events are there? 4. How many more is this than for the last, 2010, Winter Olympics? 5. What are the three animal mascots for 2014? III. A History of the Winter Olympics 1924 – 2010 1. How often are the Winter Olympics held? 2. When was the first one held? 3. What Games took place before the Winter Olympics? 4. Where were they first held and when? 5. In what country were the first Winter Olympics held? IV. Memorable Moments from Past Olympics 1. What is the Olympic motto? 2. Who won six perfect sixes in 1984? 3. What music accompanied them? 4. Who came last in both his ski jumping events in 1988 but still managed to steal the hearts of the British public? 5. Who held up the awards ceremony in 1998 for the 10km Cross Country? V. Winners and Record Breakers 1. Which country won the most medals at the first Winter Olympics? 2. Which country is the top medal scorer to date? 3. How many have they won? 4. Which country is the next highest medal winner to date? 5. How many medals have they won? Also available: Winter Olympics Class Play or Assembly and Winter Olympics Guided Reading Plays Set of *5: 1. 22nd Winter Olympics, Russia, 2014 2. A History of the Winter Olympics 1924 – 2014 3. Memorable Moments from Past Olympics 4. Winners and Record Breakers 5. What it takes to be a winner – this is a collection of 5 plays based on P.R.I.D.E. which stands for: POSITIVE MENTAL ATTITUDE, RESPECT, INTELLIGENT CHOICES, DREAMS AND GOALS and EFFORT AND EDUCATION

Nelson Mandela Guided Reading Play (or Readers Theater). 6 speakers plus quiz. An in-depth discussion amongst the key 'players' in Mandela's life, raising many issues for further discussion among students. This is one of a collection of 5 plays - Unit 20 Famous People of the 20th Century: 1. Martin Luther King 2. Nelson Mandela 3. Mahatma Gandhi 4. John Lennon 5. Prominent Women (Helen Keller, Anne Frank, Marie Curie, Mother Theresa, Margaret Thatcher and Princess Diana) Speakers: Nelson Mandela Winnie (second wife) Desmond Tutu P.W. Botha (Nationalist Party - hardliner) F.W. de Klerk (Nationalist Party - moderate) Nobel Peace Committee Sample Text: Mandela: 1994! What a year in South African history! Winnie: The year you became South Africa's first black President! Botha: The year the African National Congress won the election. De Klerk: The year millions lined up to vote with Nelson Mandela for the first time. Winnie: The year my husband said "We are moving from an era of resistance, division, oppression, turmoil and conflict and starting a new era of hope, reconciliation and nation-building. I sincerely hope that the mere casting of a vote ... will give hope to all South Africans." Tutu: And it did that all right! After all those years of injustice and suffering. At last the battle was won! Also written by Sue Russell: Black History: • The Slave Trade • Heroes of the Underground Railroad • Amazing Women in the American Civil Rights Movement • Martin Luther King • Nelson Mandela And American Heroes: • Heroes of the American War of Independence • Heroes of the Underground Railroad • Native American Heroes • Heroes in Science and Space Exploration • Heroes from Different Walks of Life (incl. children) And Amazing Women: • From across the world 15th – 20th century • From across the world 20th century • In the American Women’s Suffrage Movement • In the American Civil Rights Movement • And First Ladies 31-35 (taken from First Ladies collection)

Rio 2016 Olympic Games Quiz 100 questions and answers on the 2016 Olympic Games! Sample Text: 1. How many sports will there be at the 2016 Olympic Games? (28) Ball Games 2. Name four ‘ball games’. (Tennis, table tennis, football and rugby) 3. Name two names for table tennis. (Whiff Waff or Flim Flam) 4. How many players, per team, are there for volley ball? (6) 5. How many for beach volley ball? (2) 6. How many new ball games have been introduced for 2016?(2) 7. What are they?(Rugby and golf) 8. What does the term ‘dunkin’ mean in basketball? (To slam a ball through the net) 9. From which bird do the feathers attached to a shuttlecock come? (Goose) Archery, Shooting and Fencing 10. When was it compulsory for all English men aged between seven and sixty to be able to use a bow and arrow? (Fourteenth century) 11. Why was this considered necessary? (In order to defend their country) 12. What three types of gun are used for shooting? (Pistol, rifle and shotgun) Other scripts available from Sue Russell: ASSEMBLIES Brazil Host Country to 2016 Rio Olympics Olympics PRIDE Assembly (PSHE 'team spirit' script) Olympic Games 2016 Leavers Assembly Rio 2016 Olympic Games Assembly - covering all 28 sports History of the Olympics Assembly Rio 2016 Olympic Games Assembly: history and events - combined script including Olympic Ode Olympics Assembly for Key Stage 1 Rio 2016 Paralympics 2016 Assembly GUIDED READING SCRIPTS A Complete History of the Olympic Games Guided Reading Scripts plus quizzes - set of 8 scripts, plus quizzes Olympics PRIDE Guided Reading OLYMPIC ODE

The Queen’s 90th Birthday Party Assembly Special half price to celebrate Her Majesty's Big Day! Whilst 'gracing this assembly' with her presence, the 'party lady' seems just a little reluctant to join in the festivities. So what can our narrator and supporting cast do to change this situation? Well, did someone say it was Her Majesty's 90th birthday? Then, let's hear it for those 90 reasons to celebrate! Sample Text Music 1 Rule Britannia or Land of Hope and Glory (Cast files in with Music 1 in background; all take their seats) Music 2 National Anthem – God Save Our Queen (All stand up) Queen: (To Audience) Do be seated! Ah, how wonderful to be surrounded by my loyal subjects on my birthday! 90 years! Not bad, eh? Narrator: Well, some of us haven’t been around quite that long, your Majesty! But we are here today to celebrate your birthday with you! Queen: Oh I wouldn’t worry too much about that! Narrator: Oh? And why’s that? Queen: (Wistfully) Oh I don’t know. Once one has had as many birthdays as one has .. Narrator: You mean, you’re bored of birthdays? Queen: Well, I’m not quite the party creature I used to be! Narrator: Nonsense! And you know what? That’s what we’re here to prove to you today! Queen: Oh really! Well .. (Queen looks uncertain, shaking her head) Narrator: (To Cast) OK. Time to make Her Majesty’s day! Queen: (Sighing) You can try .. Narrator: Well, with ninety reasons to celebrate your birthday I don’t see how we can go wrong! Whole cast: (Exclaiming together) Ninety? Narrator: You heard! Ninety! And if we’re going to fit those ninety into the next (looks at watch) fifteen minutes, we’d better get a move on! Off we go! Queen: Well, you don’t mind if I make myself comfortable on this here throne? (Queen ‘settles herself comfortably’ onto throne) Queen: Ah that’s better. Do start! Narrator: Well, there are quite a few perks to being Queen, I think you’ll agree? (Queen nods) Child 1: For starters, you get to have two birthdays a year! Can’t be bad! That’s your real one on 21st April and another official one in June!

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Assembly for 5 – 7-Year-Olds (Key Stage I) This script has been tweaked from the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee script reflecting the life of Queen Elizabeth II and her family, achievements etc over 70 years. Cast of 30 Duration around 20 minutes Sample Text: Music 2 National Anthem – God Save Our Queen (All stand up) Queen: (To Audience) Please be seated! (Sighing) Ah, seventy years on the throne and I’m still adored! Whole cast: (Exclaiming) Seventy? Are we that old? (Queen scowls, hands on hips) Narrator: (Apologetically to Queen) Oh no offence, Your Majesty! What we mean is Whole cast: Thank you for being our queen for seventy years! Queen: Oh that’s quite all right! I love jubilees (pauses). Now, let me think. When was the last one? Child 1: That would be your diamond jubilee in 2012 for sixty years. Child 2: There was a golden one in 2002. That was for fifty years. Child 3: And before that, a silver one in 1977. That was for twenty-five years. This is one of four scripts now available on the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The other three are: The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Assembly 7 – 11 year olds (KS II) The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee assembly on the years 1952 – 2022 is an adaptation of my History of Rock n Roll assembly. This covers world events but with a musical twist (up to 34 suggested songs!) KS II The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee assembly on the English Monarchy – this being a quick gallop from Alfred to our present queen! KSII

A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and A Celebration of Her Life It was with a sense of shock I heard the news of Queen Elizabeth’s death, early yesterday evening, September 8th, 2022. Even though she was 96 years old, she was always there as a constant in our lives - somehow invincible, an eternal presence. And I, like many others I suspect, feel a deep sense of loss. I offer the following script as tribute to an amazing lady. Cast of 30 (easily adaptable up or down) Duration: around 15 minutes Sample Text: Speaker 24: Like at the celebration of the Queen Mother’s one hundredth birthday. What a party that was for the nation! Speaker 25: Sadly, her death followed all too soon, in 2002 with that of the queen’s sister, Margaret. Speaker 26: But then along came the 2002 Golden Jubilee – another grand celebration of fifty years’ rule – the queen at seventy-six years of age showing no signs of slowing down. Speaker 27: Then two lovely weddings! The wedding of Charles and Camilla in 2005 Speaker 28: And the wedding of William and Kate in 2011; the queen now at 85 enjoying surely one of the happiest days of her life. Narrator: It is wonderful to look back and see her beautiful smile on such happy family occasions. Speaker 29: But let us not forget what an important role she played elsewhere. For example, making that state visit to Northern Ireland, the first of its kind by a British monarch. Narrator: Indeed. Although her power as a constitutional monarch was limited, she proved a brilliant role model for our country, personifying all the best of the United Kingdom on the world stage. She was a shining example – in the case of Northern Ireland, of such qualities as reconciliation. Speaker 1: And then another celebration in 2012! This time, the Diamond Jubilee – sixty years on the throne!

Winter Olympics Class Play or Assembly 2022 – A History of the Winter Olympics from 1924 to 2022 This is one of a collection of Winter Olympic resources which include a set of Guided Reading Scripts, again on the history of the Games; an Ode or Performance Poem, and a quiz – all updated to 2022. This Winter Olympics 2022 Class Play takes us all the way from the very first Winter Olympics in 1924 to Beijing 2022. Cast of 30 (plus – a lot of doubling up for this one plus plenty of props!) Duration around 20 minutes not including music suggestions. Packed with fun and information! Sample Text Child 25: 1992, France! Germany won most medals this time! Child 26: 1994, Norway! The first Winter Olympics to be held in a different year from the Summer Olympics, setting the future pattern – the two Games taking place two years apart. Russia won most medals this year. Child 27: 1998, Japan! First time snowboarding takes place! (Enter snowboarder, nearly knocking Narrator over with board he’s carrying) Narrator: Ouch! (Furiously)What is it with you winter athletes? Can’t you watch where you’re going? First time for snowboarding, eh? If I had anything to do with it, I’d make it the last! Now, go! (Exit snowboarder) (Sighing) I think I’m just about done! What with being run over by crazy speed skaters and lugers; knocked around by men with big boards…Now if I had my way, we’d just stick to that lovely peaceful figure skating …. (Enter two figure skating couples, shouting at each other and pushing each other around) Narrator: Hold it! Hold it! What’s going on here? These cannot be figure skaters, surely?

Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table Class Play or Assembly Cast of 30. Duration around 10 minutes. This script starts with a look at the Code of Honour which those Knights of the Round Table were supposed to follow and demonstrate in their actions. But Knights, like the rest of us, are merely human as pointed out by our learned friend/wizard – Merlin. This script attempts to highlight that nobody - not even the great King Arthur - is perfect; but that that shouldn’t stop us from trying to be modern Knights – at least in as far as their aspirations! The second half of the script has a brief resume of The Sword in the Stone plus a mention of some other key moments in the Arthurian legend. Sample Text Knight 10: (To King Arthur) You taught us that all men were born equal. Knight 11: And that we should always respect ourselves and others, as equals. King Arthur: That was the idea behind the Round Table. That no one should think himself superior to another. Knight 12: Nobody should get airs above their station. Meekness and humility are two shining virtues we should all aspire to. Knight 13: We should be kind Knight 14: Gentle Knight 15: And merciful Mordred: Doesn’t sound very ‘knightly’ to me! King Arthur: Which is why you should be listening and learning. It takes more than sheer brawn to be a true knight! Knight 16: Yes, be prepared to fight for justice King Arthur: But being brave is only good if it is done for the right reasons! Knight 17: You have to know right from wrong Knight 18: And fight for those who can’t defend themselves. Mordred: (Muttering) Doesn’t sound very heroic to me! King Arthur: But that’s just it! It’s not about playing the hero, looking all dashing and chivalrous! Knight 19: That’s plain vanity! Nothing noble and courageous about that! Mordred: (Spluttering) But Knight 20: (Sighing) You have to be patient. Knight 21: Courteous. Treat others as you would wish them to treat you. Knight 22: Harbour no envy. Knight 23: Commit no murder. Mordred: Oh, here we go. I wondered when that was going to come up. Knight 24: To have honour you have to fight on the side of truth. Mordred: And who are you, any of you, to say what that is? Merlin: (Sighing) Ah me! And this is where it all gets so complicated. None of us are perfect. We all get drawn into temptation – that’s life. King Arthur: But we can at least try to abide by certain rules of conduct. Ones that are not going to harm others. And if we succeed at just a few of these, then we are on the right path.

Ancient Greek Myths Tale of Two Spinners Assembly or Class Play This class play can be used as an assembly (for performance) or as a class play, to be read within the classroom. It is part of a set of scripts written on the Ancient Greek Myths which includes Guided Reading scripts plus quizzes. The poem - The Spider and the Fly by Mary Howitt - is included in the text. Cast of 30 - easily adaptable up or down Duration - around 10 - 15 minutes Sample Text: Narrator: Now, that’s better. (Ushering Incey Wincey Spider and Little Miss Muffet back to their seats) (To audience) You see how ridiculous this fear of spiders is? What do they call it? Arachn (Enter Arachne, scuttling on in spider costume) Arachne: Someone mention my name? Narrator: Ah! You’d be Arachne! As in Arachnophobia? Arachne: Well, I have no fear of spiders. I just am one! All thanks to (Enter Athene) Athene: Me! Arachne: Wretched goddess! (Athene scowls and raises her hand) Athene: (Menacingly) I’d be very careful what you say, if I were you Arachne! That tongue of yours has already got you into a whole heap of trouble! Arachne: (Gesturing at the spider outfit) Oh you mean this? Just because I said I was a better spinner than you! Athene: Foolish girl! What arrogance! You had to be punished! Arachne: That wasn’t quite the only reason I got punished, was it? Narrator: I’d say that was ample reason! Definitely too big for her boots, this one! Arachne: (Wailing) But I was brilliant at my craft. Athene: And didn’t you know it! You had to be taken down a peg or two.

Cricket Class Play or Assembly (‘nod’ to World Cup) Anyone for Cricket? This class play or assembly, cast of 30, is approximately 20 minutes long and should be performed if only for that wonderful track by 10 CC – Dreadlock Holiday! (Who doesn’t know classic line ‘I don’t like Cricket,… oh no… I love it!?) Apart from giving an outline of the game, and some of its past heroes, there is an exploration of cricket terminology – an A to Z of surely some of the wackiest jargon in or out of the sporting world! For sports and non-sports folk alike – Enjoy! Sample Text Narrator: Ah! Our final innings of the day! Player 1: We’ll be sure to make this a fine pongo! (All Players raise their bats in triumph) Narrator: Pongo meaning a high score! Player 1: Correct. Lots of runs! Umpire 1: (Standing) But we’ll be keeping an eye on the quota. Umpire 2: (Standing) That’s the total number of overs (maximum ten) given to a bowler Umpire 1: Typically, the total overs in the innings Umpire 2: Divided by five, Umpire 1: And then rounded to the next highest whole number. Narrator: (Clutching his head) Well, I’ll most certainly leave the maths to you! (Both Umpires sit down, smiling) Player 2: Rabbit! Narrator: I beg your pardon! Player 2: That’s what a rubbish batsman is called! (All Players shake their heads, in disgust) Narrator: Ooh. That’s not nice! I mean, no offence to bunnies but Player 3: (Interrupting) Rain delay! (All Players groan) Player 3: Nothing more frustrating when you want to get on with the game! Player 4: Red cherry. Spectator 5: That’s the nickname for the red cricket ball! Player 4: Correct! Player 5: Rib tickler! Spectator 1: Would that be a ball that hits the batsman in the midriff? Player 5: Well done! You see how easy our jargon is? Player 6: Sawn off! (All Players gasp in anger and two Umpires stand up defiantly, with arms crossed) Umpire 1: Our word is what goes! Umpire 2: Nobody should argue with that! Umpire 1: If we say a player is dismissed Umpire 2: That’s an end to it! Spectator 2: But what if you get it wrong? (Umpires 1 and 2 gasp in horror) Umpires 1 & 2: (Together) We never get it wrong! (Players continue to glare at two Umpires as they sit down) Narrator: (Coughing) Moving on! Player 7: Sitter! Spectator 3: Ooh. You never want to drop one of those! The shame of missing an easy catch! Player 7: (Shaking head) Indeed. Player 8: Skier! Another ball you really don’t want to miss! These are a miss hit, go up in the sky Narrator: And I can only imagine the embarrassment of having all that time and then missing the catch! (Players all clutch their heads)

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Assembly 7-11-year-olds KSII Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Assembly KSII script has been tweaked from Queen’s Diamond Jubilee script reflecting the life of Queen Elizabeth II and her family, achievements etc over 70 years. Cast of 30 Duration around 20 minutes This is one of four scripts now available on the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The other three are: The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Assembly for 5- 7 year-olds KS I The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee assembly on the years 1952 – 2022 is an adaptation of my History of Rock n Roll assembly. This covers world events but with a musical twist (up to 34 suggested songs!) The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee assembly on the English Monarchy – this being a quick gallop from Alfred to our present queen! Sample Text Music 2 National Anthem – God Save Our Queen (All stand up) Queen: (To Audience) Do be seated! Ah, how wonderful to be surrounded by my loyal subjects – the same today as seventy years ago! Narrator: Well, some of us haven’t been around quite that long, no offence, your Majesty! But we are here today to congratulate you on your seventy years as queen! Queen: Thank you. I have of course celebrated three other jubilees – a silver one in 1977 celebrating twenty-five years, a golden one in 2002 celebrating fifty years; and a diamond one in 2012 celebrating sixty years. Narrator: And we are delighted to be celebrating your Platinum Jubilee with you today, in 2022! Queen: Oh the pleasure is all mine! It wouldn’t, after all, be any fun celebrating on one’s own! Narrator: No, indeed, Ma’am. And we, your loyal subjects, have been busy finding out all about your most gracious self! Queen: Oh, really? I hope it’s all ‘good’! Narrator: Most certainly, Ma’am. No need to alarm yourself on our account! Do take a seat – I apologise we couldn’t fit your throne in today! Queen: (Sitting down) That’s quite alright! Narrator: So (turning to cast) – take it away, people! (Each child stands up in turn and delivers information about the queen)

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Class Play or Assembly on the English Monarchy takes us from Alfred the Great to Elizabeth II. With a cast of 30 (easily adapted up or down) and lasting approximately 10 – 15 minutes, it focuses on Queen Elizabeth’s ancestry – a quick gallop through the English monarchy! The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Assembly on the English Monarchy is one of four Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Assemblies now available off the website. The other three are: The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee assembly – about the Queen and her life, family, achievements etc. This is available for KS I and II (separate scripts) The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee assembly on the years 1952 – 2022 – an adaptation of my History of Rock n Roll assembly. This covers world events but with a musical twist (up to 35 suggested songs!) Cast of 30 Duration: Around 10 minutes not including music. There is also a complete listing of all our kings and queens. Sample Text: Queen: Ah! Thank you so much! One really does appreciate simple creature comforts as one gets older. It’s easy enough to forget that when you’re a queen! Narrator: I’m sure you’re right! Queen: Undoubtedly! But I’m not here to lecture you this morning! It is for you and your delightful children to tell me all about my delightful ancestors! (Turning to cast) I believe you have been studying them in history? How fascinating for you! Narrator: Oh, indeed it has been, ma’am. And we do hope you will also learn a few things that maybe you hadn’t known before about your forbears! Queen: Ooh! I can’t wait! Such a delightful lot, us royals! Narrator: (Aside) Oh oh! Something tells me the Queen may have a few shocks in store! I hope she takes it in the right spirit – or I could shortly find myself a little uncomfortable ….in the Tower! Child 1: This morning we’d like to start with the present royal family – the House of Windsor. There’s (holding up picture of William) William, now happily married to Kate – sorry, Katherine, the Duchess of Cambridge! Child 2: William is the eldest son of (holds up picture) Charles, the Prince of Wales – now married to Camilla. Child 3: (Holding up picture) William’s mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, was tragically killed in a road accident in 1997 when William was 15 years old. Child 4: (Holding up picture) William has a younger brother, Harry. Child 5: William and Harry have a rather important grandma – the Queen! Queen: At last! I wondered how long it would take you to get to me!

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee class play or assembly on the years 1952 – 2022 is an adaptation of my History of Rock n Roll assembly. This covers world events but with a musical twist (up to 35 suggested songs!) This is one of three scripts now available on the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The other two are: The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee assembly – about the Queen and her life, family, achievements etc. The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee assembly on the English Monarchy – this being a quick gallop from Alfred to our present queen! Reading time: about 15 minutes. This does not include any music and as the ‘list’ is largely down to teacher discretion, this could vary greatly – from 15 to 60 minutes! Cast of 30 plus (could easily be doubled!) Sample Text: Music 20 God Save the Queen – Sex Pistols (Queen sits in state of total shock) (Narrator rushes over to queen and offers her handkerchief to mop her brow) Queen: Well! I’m not often lost for words but …. Narrator: (Effusively) I’m so sorry, Your Majesty! I had no idea this punk band were performing here today! Whatever next! Music 21 Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen Narrator: Ah! Queen! Queen: Pardon? Narrator: No, that’s the name of the band, Your Majesty! Queen: What? Named after me? Ah, splendid! (Looks quizzically at Freddie Mercury’s black leather trousers) Mmm. Not quite sure about the trousers … Music 22 Baggy Trousers – Madness Queen: Ah! That’s better! Now. How about a few more current events. Where were we? Ah yes! The seventies! (Enter 1970s children, holding up cards) Child 1: 1971: Decimal currency is introduced in Britain. Cast: (Together) Phew! Maths lessons now much easier! Child 1 (1971 continued): And Soviet Union launches first space station, Salyut 1. Child 2: 1973: Coal miners strike in Britain. State of emergency and 3 day working week are proclaimed. Child 3: 1976: Concorde flies!

Second World War School Assembly or Class Play What was the Blitz? What was it like to be an evacuee? What did Morrisons have to do with bomb shelters? Why did Americans call the first 6 months the ‘phoney war’? (Also available, set of 5 guided reading play scripts, with quizzes - Background/Beginnings of War, The Course of the War, Evacuation, the Blitz and War-time Life/Rationing; plus a collection of First World War scripts - Remembrance Day Assembly, First World War Assembly and First World War Poets Assembly) SAMPLE TEXT Second World War or World War II Assembly Evacuee 5: I was lucky. Although I got separated from my brother, I was looked after by a very kind couple .. and didn’t want to go back to the grimy old city I’d left. Evacuee 1:I was so home sick. But my Mum said she could only visit once a month. Evacuee 2: I wanted to go home too. But it was for our own safety. (All walk off. Sound of bombs and air raid siren. Air Raid Warden rushes on). Warden: (grabbing child): Quick! It’s an air raid! If you’re not quick, you’re dead! Get yourself into a shelter now! Narrator: Yes, once those sirens went on, you really didn’t want to be out in the open. Best be (pointing at 2 adults and 2 children under table) snuggled together, indoors, under your Morrisons Shelter. Mum (brandishing Morrisons bag). Two for one, this week only! ________________________________________ TEACHING ‘COVERAGE’ 6. Unit 9 Second World War Assembly (i) Whose was to blame? (ii) Timeline: 1914 – 1945 - Origins in First World War - Chamberlain’s Appeasement Policy - Fates of different countries - Battle of Britain - Blitz - V.E. Day - Hiroshima/Nagasaki - V.J. Day (iii) Who was involved (location on map) (iv) Evacuees (v) Air Raids/Shelters (vi) Recreation (vii) Rationing (viii) Role of Army, RAF and Navy (ix) Women’s role (x) Anne Frank (xi) Remembrance Sunday (In Flanders Fields) (xii) Today’s World Situation (United Nations) (xiii) Lessons learnt. MUSIC 1. Land of Hope and Glory 2. Run rabbit, run rabbit, run run run 3. Dad's Army theme 4. Pack up your troubles 5. Imagine -John Lennon