Bring winter learning to life with this KS1 cross-curricular writing pack, designed for pupils in years 1 and 2. Centred around a model poem that acts as a WAGOLL (What A Good One Looks Like), the resource helps children explore the concept of hibernation through both English and science objectives.
You can use this pack to guide your class through a complete sequence of learning. Start by sharing the model text, Hibernating, and exploring its language together. Pupils will identify verbs in the present progressive tense, discuss how the animal in the poem might feel, and consider how the poem shows the passage of time through winter.
Next, use the verb cards and scaffolded grammar activities to help pupils practise using -ing verbs in the present progressive form (e.g. is sleeping, are yawning). With two differentiated sets of cards included, you can easily support a range of learners. Pupils then build vocabulary and rehearse sentence structures orally before beginning their own planning.
Scaffolded planning
Using the included planning sheet and writing scaffold, children will create their own winter-themed poem about a hibernating animal. Those who are ready can write independently in the style of the WAGOLL. The final poems can be published on the themed writing paper included in the pack.
To enhance science understanding, the resource includes images of hibernating animals to support discussion about seasonal changes and survival behaviours. Pupils will explore why animals hibernate, where they go, and how their bodies adapt.
What’s included:
- WAGOLL model poem: Hibernating
- Hibernating animal images
- Verb cards (two differentiated sets)
- Grammar activities
- Planning sheet
- Writing scaffold
- Themed writing paper
Curriculum links:
English:
- Compose and rehearse sentences orally before writing
- Use the present and past tense accurately, including the progressive form
- Write poetry to build confidence and stamina
Science:
- Observe and describe changes across the seasons
- Name and group common animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish