A mixed Year 5 class from Pegasus School in East Oxford and partner school, local top prep school The Dragon, listen to a story. Paired-up pupils then draw story maps of key points in the narrative. We then follow some pupils outside where they step through their stories, using their bodies as well as their verbal skills to recall and relate the story. This process helps them remember and regurgitate the plot lines of the story, allowing them finally to write their own version of the tale. Pegasus's Headteacher Gill Hudson explains the critical importance of Talk To Write and its positive impact on written attainment throughout the school. Talk advisor to the National Literacy Trust Judy Clark adds ideas on how to use charity shop objects to help children write creatively. Professor of Education Rhona Stainthorp from Reading University adds a caveat: teachers must not expect too much too soon and must allow a child sufficient time to write a story.

Video Series: Good Practice
Release Date 2010