20th November marks World Children’s Day, UNICEF’s annual day of action when children worldwide are urged to stand up for their rights and raise their voices on the issues that matter to them. From climate change and mental health to ending racism and discrimination, these views help UNICEF protect young people’s childhoods
and create a better future for every child.
Oracy
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child has been compared to a rulebook outlining how children should be treated. Sadly, it’s all too frequently ignored. So, who do you think is better at following rules: adults or children? Isn’t it true that most adults follow the law? Can adults be excused because they have so many other things to deal with? In any case, don’t adults run the risk of facing far greater consequences if they break laws? Or do you think that children are better behaved? Anyway, isn’t it true that they’re still learning so they have a better excuse if they break the rules? What do you think?
Writing skills
Imagine you are some sort of headteacher for the world. You find that some world leaders have been sent to you for failing to follow the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Write a brief dialogue between you and them, reprimanding them for their behaviour and telling them what they need to do to make amends.
Or
Write a set of instructions for creating a happy childhood. Include a brief introduction, a ‘What you need’ section and a set of numbered instructions featuring imperative verbs and sequencing conjunctions and adverbials.
Investigate
Write a brief fact file about the United Nations, outlining when it was established and what it was set up to do.
What is First News?
Launched in May 2006, First News is the most trusted weekly newspaper for young audiences, covering global headlines and empowering children with an understanding of the world in which they are growing up.
To find out more about how First News could help your school unlock the power of news-based learning, through high quality, weekly resources alongside the print and digital newspaper, visit the First News Education website.