NSW DET Stage 1 Unit of Work: Representation

Using Eric Carle’s Book of Amazing Animals

Unlock the wonders of representation in this comprehensive 100+ page resource, designed exclusively for NSW DET Stage 1 teachers to teach Component B English.

Using the beloved mentor text Eric Carle’s Book of Amazing Animals, this unit provides a dynamic and engaging approach to exploring how texts depict real and imagined worlds, all while supporting the development of key literacy skills.

Why choose this resource?

This resource goes beyond simply teaching representation—it empowers students to explore the why and how behind the depiction of people, places, and ideas in texts.

With a clear alignment to the English Textual Concepts and Learning Processes (2016) and the National Literacy Learning Progression (Version 3), this unit offers seamless integration into your classroom while meeting curriculum outcomes.

Designed to spark curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity, this resource also enhances student learning across Science and Technology and Creative Arts, making it a truly multidisciplinary experience.

What’s Inside?

• Editable PowerPoint Presentation: Over 100 engaging, visually appealing slides tailored to maximize student engagement.
• Google Slides Version: Perfect for online or hybrid teaching.
• Printable PDF: Easy-to-use handouts and lesson materials.
• Creative Culminating Task: A hands-on diorama project to reinforce understanding of representation, creativity, and collaboration.

Learning Intentions

Students are learning to:

• Explore real and imagined worlds that are represented in texts.
• Identify the structure and features of informative texts.
• Plan, write, and edit their own informative texts.

Success Criteria

Students will:

• Follow extended instructions using connectives and conjunctions.
• Respond to real and imagined worlds in texts.
• Identify how language and form vary according to purpose, audience, and mode.
• Use action verbs and noun groups to add detail to writing.
• Identify and sequence the features of an informative text.
• Research using digital and non-digital texts.
• Use graphic organizers to plan writing and edit their work with feedback.
• Incorporate Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary into their writing.
• Write compound sentences and extended sentences for clear communication.

Key Features of the Unit

1. Mentor Text Exploration: Eric Carle’s Book of Amazing Animals is used in digestible sections throughout Week 1 to explore language, structure, and the power of visual and written representation.
2. Integrated Curriculum Focus: Activities align with Science and Technology and Creative Arts syllabuses, culminating in a diorama project that combines creativity with critical thinking.
3. Explicit Language Focus: Students will master noun groups, action verbs, and sentence structures to build their skills in creating and analysing informative texts.

Why Teachers Love This Resource

• Time-Saving: Ready-to-use slides, handouts, and teaching notes minimize prep time while maximizing student engagement.
• Comprehensive and Flexible: Perfect for whole-class teaching, small groups, or differentiated instruction.
• Aligned with Standards: Fully supports NSW curriculum outcomes and best teaching practices.
• Student-Centred: Encourages creativity, research, and collaboration while fostering independence and confidence.

Support your students’ understanding of representation with this resource that brings literacy to life through vibrant, real-world connections. From exploring the beauty of animals in Eric Carle’s art to crafting their own texts and projects, students will develop critical literacy skills that go beyond the classroom.

Available now as an editable PowerPoint, Google Slides version, and printable PDF.

Attribution is given to: © State of New South Wales (Department of Education), 2023.