We chose friendship as our first theme as this project was founded by four friends (Sandie, Tatia, Gail & Anneta). Friendship was also the theme of the 2018 National Children’s Book Week which takes place every October in the Netherlands.

“Did you know that sometimes, with a little electricity, or luck, or even magic, an imaginary friend might appear when you need one? An imaginary friend like Fred. Fred floated like a feather in the wind until Sam, a lonely little boy, wished for him and, together, they found a friendship like no other.” (Harper Publishing) Oliver’s Website. Imaginary Fred has his own website so have a browse, some nice downloadable teaching activities available. Imaginary Fred works especially well with the older primary learner. Watch our videos for all our teaching ideas.

Peritextual features

Front cover: Refer to author and illustrator and predict about main characters
Back cover: Read the blurb

Teacher education

Working with the cover/reading images

Multiliteracies

Visual: noticing embossed print, upper/lower case letters and use of colour; reading and interpreting illustrations and facial expressions
Learning: predicting and recalling
Emotional: empathising and personalising

Notes from the classroom

Understanding the importance of friendship in a child’s life;
Preparing a poster in groups Describing a friend.