Dear Anne, We Are Listening

This week, we launched our brand new writing unit inspired by the book Anne Frank by Josephine Poole and it has already made a powerful impression on the class.

We began by reading sections of the book and watching a film that explored Anne’s childhood and the growing challenges she faced as Hitler and the Nazi party rose to power in the 1930s. Through this, the children learned how Hitler manipulated and brainwashed the citizens of Germany, convincing them that Jewish people were to blame for unemployment, hunger and widespread poverty. What began as hateful ideas quickly grew into something far more dangerous. A spark turned into a flame and the flame into a blaze that forced Anne and her family to flee to the Netherlands, where they hid in a secret annexe, living each day in fear of being discovered.

We then turned our focus to the power of words and were introduced to Kitty, Anne’s diary. The children discovered how writing helped Anne stay hopeful and express her thoughts and feelings while being confined indoors morning, noon and night. Inspired by this, the children were asked to imagine they were Anne’s pen pal. What questions would they ask her? How could they show empathy and kindness? What advice might they give her about what to do next?

The results were truly impressive. The children showed a deep understanding of Anne’s situation, putting themselves in her place with sensitivity and compassion. They were struck by her resilience and bravery and this shone through in their thoughtful, heartfelt letters. What incredible pen pals they turned out to be.

This unit already promises to be something very special and we are certain the children will never forget the life, courage and legacy of Anne Frank.