Guide pupils to explore dialogue, stage directions and traditional tales using this KS2 playscripts resource pack. Pupils begin by reading a WAGOLL model text, Scene 2: Selling Daisy, from a stage version of Jack and the Beanstalk.
The model text helps pupils identify the key features of a playscript, including:
- character lists
- scene titles
- introduction to the scene
- dialogue with colons after character names
- stage directions in brackets
- adverbs showing how dialogue should be delivered
- the use of present tense in stage directions
Pupils can act out the scene to understand how stage directions guide movement, tone and expression.
After analysing the model text, pupils will use the planning sheet to design their own playscript. They can continue the story of Jack and the Beanstalk or create a scene from another traditional tale they know well.
The writing sheet provides success criteria, listing the essential elements of a playscript and offering guidance on using adverbs and present tense stage directions correctly. Pupils then draft their scene and present it neatly on the themed writing paper.
What’s included in this resource
- Playscript model text – Scene 2: Selling Daisy: A scene from Jack and the Beanstalk that shows dialogue, stage directions, adverbs and present tense in action
- Playscript writing sheet: Contains success criteria for writing playscripts, highlighting adverbs, present tense stage directions and clear layout
- Playscript planning sheet: Allows pupils to plan characters, dialogue and stage directions for their own scenes
- Writing paper: Themed paper to help pupils present their work in the correct playscript format
Curriculum links
- Year 3/4: Pupils plan writing by discussing and analysing similar texts to understand structure, vocabulary and grammar. They practise using and punctuating direct speech within dialogue.
This resource enables pupils to move from reading and annotating a WAGOLL playscript to creating their own imaginative scenes. They learn to structure dialogue, write clear stage directions and apply grammar and punctuation rules, gaining confidence in writing for performance.