Fun Plays for Special Days: Book 2 by Teacher Superstore

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Fun Plays for Special Days Book 2 © ReadyEdPubl i cat i ons r o e t s Bo r e p ok u S

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* Book Week

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•f orr e ew pur po sesonl y• *vi Anzac Day

* Christmas (around the world) . te o c * Christmas (in Australia) . che e r o t r s super Written by Anna Sheehy. Illustrated by Melinda Brezmen. © Ready-Ed Publications - 2000 Published by Ready-Ed Publications (2000) P.O. Box 276 Greenwood WA 6024 Email: info@readyed.com.au Website: www.readyed.com.au

COPYRIGHT NOTICE Permission is granted for the purchaser to photocopy sufficient copies for non-commercial educational purposes. However, this permission is not transferable and applies only to the purchasing individual or institution. ISBN 1 86397 289 7

Answers:

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Page 19 - Books Fiction: These books consist of imaginary situations and characters. Non-Fiction: These books consist of true situations and true characters. Reference: Factual information organised so it’s easy to look up quickly. Fiction Non-Fiction Reference Snow White Chickens Dictionary Bananas In Pyjamas Mammals The Yellow Pages The Three Bears Aeroplanes Encyclopedia Page 27 - Christmas Greetings Buon Natale: Italy Merry Christmas: Australia, United States of America Joyeux Noël: France Feliz Navidad: Mexico Zalig Kerstfeast: Holland Froehliche Weihnachten: Germany Chung Mung Giang Sinh: Vietnam Nollaig Shona Dhuit: Ireland Kala Christouyenna: Greece Boas Festas e Feliz Ano Novo: Brazil Gesëende Kersfees: Afrikaans Sawadee Pee Mai: Thailand Page 28 - Crack The Code Perë Noël: France La Befana: Italy Advent Calendars: Germany St. Nicholas: Holland Carol Singing: USA Pinata: Mexico Carols By Candlelight: Australia Page 35 - Crack The Code 1) Panettone is a special Italian festive bread. 2) Panettone is very popular at Christmas time in Italy. 3) Children’s own message.

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Contents Answers

Introductory Statement

’The Anzac Legend’: Anzac Day

Anzac Day 1 Anzac Day 2

‘The Book Rap’: Book Appreciation Books - A Review

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Anzac Biscuits

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Books

‘Christmas Around The W orld’: Christmas World’: A Christmas Word Search

Word Search

Crack the Code

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Famous Italian People, Food and Cities

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’T ony’s P anettone’: An Italian Christmas Story ’Tony’s Panettone’:

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Introductory Statement Fun Plays For Special Days

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THE IMPORT ANCE OF DRAMA IN EDUCA TION IMPORTANCE EDUCATION As one of the creative art forms, Drama plays an important role in education. It is a medium through which important historical and current events come alive. Human situations also come alive, inspiring understanding for all those involved. In education, Drama provides opportunities for students to gain a better understanding of important events and situations from the viewpoint of personal experience and stepping into other people’s shoes. The content comes alive and becomes relevant to the student’s world. It also enables them to express themselves both individually and in a group. OBJECTIVES OF THE BOOK ‘F un Plays for Special Days’ focuses on special days, weeks and times that occur during each year. The ‘Fun Plays, containing a great deal of verse, are suitable for middle and upper primary and can be used for both classroom activities and school assemblies.

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GENERAL OBJECTIVES 1. Through the educational mediums of Drama and Oral Speaking, the students will gain an understanding of the historical and cultural significance of special celebrations and events featured. 2. The students will comprehend the reasons for the celebrations in various countries of the world. 3. The students will develop personal confidence when participating in public speaking and performance. 4. Opportunities will be provided for all class members to be involved in these plays. 5. Other year levels will gain both knowledge and understanding while watching the plays being performed.

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SUMMARY OF CONTENTS AND SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES Each of these plays focuses on a special day, week or time, which is celebrated or remembered during the year. THE ANZAC LEGEND helps the students understand Australia’s place in the World Wars and the historical significance of these events. It also gives them insights into the feelings and emotions of those involved. THE BOOK RAP gives the students an understanding of the origins and history of books. Books are promoted as a top class form of entertainment and learning. CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD helps the students gain insights into how people in different countries, including Australia, celebrate Christmas. TONY ’S P ANET TONE is a fun play that presents a fictitious account of the origins of the Panettone, the PANET ANETTONE Italian Christmas cake. This play helps the students comprehend that different cultures have different Christmas traditions, and ways of celebrating Christmas.

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FORMA T FORMAT Each play consists of narrative style poetry, dialogue between characters and simple stage directions. Each play also incorporates character, props and costume lists. POINTERS FOR USE IN THE CLAS SROOM CLASSROOM 1. Teachers may modify sections of the plays to suit differing requirements, circumstances and conditions. 2. In order to achieve full participation and to ensure that all the children are participating in the performance, there can be more than one narrator. There can be a choir of narrators!

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‘The Anzac Legend’: Anzac Day

The Anzac Legend

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‘The Anzac Legend’: Anzac Day

The Anzac Leg end Legend (The Meaning of Anzac Day) CAST OF CHARACTERS

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PROPS

Bravery medals, either real or pretend Chairs and table Football Boxes Blanket Pillow Set of cards Scripts for Narrator(s)

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Jason Rebecca Nanna Grandad Roy Don Norm Jack Nurses (2) Doctors (2) Soldiers (3) Servicewomen (2) Sick person Injured person Narrator(s)

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COSTUMES

Clothes resembling those worn in the 1930’s and 40’s. Clothes resembling servicemen, doctors’ and nurses’ uniforms.

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‘The Anzac Legend’: Anzac Day

Script Nanna and Grandad are sitting at the table. Grandad is looking at his bravery medals. Jason and Rebecca come running over and sit down. Jason and Rebecca together: Hi Nanna. Hi Grandad. Hello Rebecca. Hello Jason.

Grandad:

Hello you two!

Jason:

(Looking at the medals.) What are you doing Grandad?

Grandad:

Well, your Nanna and myself are getting ready for Anzac Day tomorrow.

Rebecca:

We’ve been learning about Anzac Day at school.

Narrator(s):

Anzac Day falls on the 25th of April. When we remember those who went to war. The letters of the word ‘ANZAC’ stand For Australia and New Zealand Army Corps. (core) On April 25th, 1915, The Anzac story began When on the Gallipoli Peninsula The Anzacs bravely did land. Thousands of people fought courageously There were heavy casualties on both sides. The battle was long and drawn out. Thousands of people died.

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Nanna:

Did R youe fight atd Gallipoli, Grandad? © a yE dPubl i cat i ons Grandad: (Chuckling.) No no. I’m a bit younger than that. Ther battle at v Gallipoli happened during World War One. •f o r e i e w p u r p o s e s onl y• I fought in the Second World War - World War Two.

Jason:

Narrator(s):

In World War Two, thousands joined up To serve their country, they were keen. Some saw adventure, many saw duty, Working together, as a team.

Rebecca: Grandad:

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I was a nurse. I helped the sick and injured during World War Two.

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Nanna:

Dad says you put your age up to go to the war. Is that true Grandad?

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(Proudly.) It certainly is.

Roy, Don, Norm and Jack enter scene. They are four young people not quite old enough to enlist. ‘Roy’ is the young ‘Grandad’. They are handpassing a football. Jack:

Well, England’s at war, so that means Australia is at war, too.

Don:

I want to serve my country, and England!

Norm:

I want to too, but we’re not old enough.

Roy:

Let’s put our ages up. Then they’ll let us in.

Others together: Yes! Let’s do it! Let’s do it now! Roy, Don, Norm and Jack exit scene.

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‘The Anzac Legend’: Anzac Day

Narrator(s):

Young men travelled far and wide Life in the armed services was tough. When they weren’t fighting, they were still working hard And conditions could be very rough.

Grandad:

Sometimes we had to walk knee deep in mud for hours, and wear the same clothes for days.

Jason and Rebecca together: Yuk! Rebecca:

Nanna, you said you were a nurse during the war. What other ways did women make a contribution to the war effort?

Nanna:

You know, over 30 000 women enlisted in the armed services. They didn’t actually fight at the front line, but they helped out in many ways. Many lost their lives just the same.

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Narrator(s):

Women played a big part in the war effort Making a significant contribution. Many enlisted and travelled Many stayed, offering support and solutions. Some were doctors and nurses Some made clothes and ammunition. Some looked after children, the elderly, and the sick In voluntary positions. When farmers went to war And there was no one to work the land Women made up the Land Army Enthusiastically lending a hand.

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Nurses, Doctors, Soldiers, Servicewomen, Sick person and Injured person enter scene. Nurses and Doctors mime treating the sick and injured people. Servicewomen and Soldiers pass boxes to one another, open them and pretend to examine contents. These actions occur while the Narrators recite the following verse:

The people above remain on stage.

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Jason:

(Pointing to the medals. Holding one up.) You’ve got lots of medals, Grandad. You and Nanna must have been very brave.

Grandad:

Kids, there were two main things we had to remember while we were in the thick of it - never let your mates down, and never let Australia down.

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Roy, Don, Norm and Jack join the others in the scene. They all sit down and mime talking to one another. Some play cards. Some handpass a football. These actions happen during the next verse. Narrator(s):

Although life in the Services was fraught with danger, ‘Mateship’ was important, and held dear. Close friendships were formed and enjoyed And have continued over the years.

Grandad gets up from chair. He goes over and stands with Roy, Don, Norm and Jack. They shake hands and slap each others’ backs happily. Don: Page 8

Are we all ready for the parade tomorrow? Ready-Ed Publications

‘The Anzac Legend’: Anzac Day

Grandad:

Absolutely!

Norm:

See you all at the Dawn Service.

All characters, including Narrator(s) stand and form into a group. Rebecca and Jason come and stand with Nanna and Grandad. Everyone speaks together. We preserve the memory of those who lost their lives For the freedom of our nation. We recognise the sacrifices made For the benefit of future generations. Anzac Day. A day of remembrance. A day of recognition and respect . For those who fought and returned And for those who lost their lives. Lest We Forget.

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THE END

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Jason and Rebecca together: (Putting their arms around their Nanna and Grandad’s shoulders.) We’re proud of you, Nanna and Grandad. Thank you.

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‘The Anzac Legend’: Anzac Day

Anzac Da y1 Day Read the following verse from the play. In your group, highlight the words that express how people feel about Anzac Day. Brainstorm other relevant words.

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We preserve the memory of those who lost their lives For the freedom of our nation. We recognise the sacrifices made For the benefit of future generations. Anzac Day. A day of remembrance. A day of recognition and respect. For those who fought and returned, And for those who lost their lives. Lest We Forget.

Express your feelings about Anzac Day in the form of poetr y or prose. poetry

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.................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................... Page 10

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‘The Anzac Legend’: Anzac Day

Anzac Da y2 Day Each year on the 25th of April, Australians and New Zealanders commemorate Anzac Day. On the 25th of April, 1915, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps landed at Gallipoli, Turkey. Thousands lost their lives in the battle, which went on for eight long months. On Anzac Day, we remember those who fought for freedom and peace.

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In your group, discuss symbols that are used to represent peace. Draw and label them.

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r o e t s B r e oo Discussion p Create a design promoting peace. u k S

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‘The Anzac Legend’: Anzac Day

Anzac Biscuits Biscuits were made at home and sent over to the Anzac soldiers during World War One. In groups, make batches of Anzac Biscuits, using the following recipe.

Ingredients: 1 cup of plain flour

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1 cup of rolled oats

1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) 3

/4 cup of coconut

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1 cup of sugar

125 grams of butter 1 tablespoon of golden syrup 2 tablespoons of hot water

Method: 1. 2.

© ReadyEdPubl i cat i ons •and f o rr evini e w pover ur pheat. osesonl y• Melt butter golden syrup a saucepan low In a large bowl, combine the sifted flour, oats, sugar and coconut. Let it cool slightly.

Add the butter mixture to the dry ingredients in the bowl. Mix well.

Place rounded teaspoonfuls of mixture on a greased oven tray, about four centimetres apart. This will allow room for spreading. Press down lightly.

Bake at 180o for 20 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown.

Loosen biscuits and allow them to cool.

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Dissolve the bicarbonate of soda in the water. Add this mixture to the saucepan. Combine.

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This recipe makes about 30 biscuits.

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‘The Book Rap’: Book Appreciation

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‘The Book Rap’: Book Appreciation

The Book Rap

r o e t s B r e oo CAST OF CHARACTERS p u k S

The group of participants devise their own beat and rhythm to accompany these words. Musical instruments may be used.

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PROPS

Books - wide variety - story, comic, textbooks, dictionaries, etc. A Bible ‘The Book of Kells’. A pretend version made in school.

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Participants will become ‘Rappers’. The introduction, choruses and conclusion of this Poem/Rap will be recited by all. Groups of two or three will be responsible for each of the other verses. All participants stand together. When it is the turn of individual groups, they come forward, perform, then step back again.

COSTUMES

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Participants wear ‘cool’, trendy, streetwear, rapping clothes.

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‘The Book Rap’: Book Appreciation

Script All P articipants T ogether: We don’t like reading - oh no! Participants Together: We love it - yeah! We don’t like reading - oh no! We love it - yeah! Group One:

People everywhere lend us your ears. Books have been around for five thousand years. Where did books begin? That’s the mystery We will unravel in our rap history.

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In ancient times, people wrote on clay There were no computers like there are today. Egyptians wrote on papyrus It grew along the Nile The Chinese wrote on wood, and bamboo for a while.

Everybody T ogether: Together:

Books, there’s always something new That we can read about. So just go on down to the library, A bookshop or join a bookclub Just go on down.

Group Three:

That cool dude Moses met God all alone Then he brought down ten commandments Etched in stone. What about the Bible? It wasn’t written in one hit. People wrote down stories, bit by bit.

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Group T wo: Two:

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Everybody T ogether: Together:

Group Five:

Group Six:

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Have you heard of the Book of Kells? Four gospels in Latin are the stories that it tells. When you go to Ireland Visit Dublin during your stay. Just go down to Trinity College The Book of Kells is on display. Books, there’s always something new That we can read about. So just go on down to the library, The bookshop or join a bookclub. Just go on down.

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Group F our: Four:

o c . che e r o t r s super All over the world, in every nation Reading is a form of mass communication. People read to learn, people read for pleasure; When you want to relax It’s a great type of leisure. There are books on every subject, Books in every language. If you speak another lingo Then you’ve got an advantage.

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‘The Book Rap’: Book Appreciation

Everybody T ogether: Together:

Books, there’s always something new That we can read about So just go on down to the library, The bookshop or join a bookclub Why don’t ya go on down?

Group Seven:

Storybooks, textbooks, comic books and plays Dictionaries, telephone books, we use them everyday. Forget about Nintendo, videos and TV For mental stimulation, books are all you need.

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Everybody T ogether: Together:

So C’mon! Let’s use our imaginations. Find out some information. Get some mental stimulation. I just love those illustrations.

Books, there’s always something new That we can read about. So just go on down to the library The bookshop or join the bookclub Why don’t ya go on down? Books, there’s always something new That we can read about. So just go on down to the library, The bookshop or join the bookclub. Just go on down AND READ!!

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Group Eight:

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‘The Book Rap’: Book Appreciation

Book s - A Review Books Choose one of your favourite books. Fill in the information.

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r o e t s Bo r e p ok Title: u ........................................................................... S Author: .......................................................................

Illustrator: ...................................................................

Main Characters:........................................................ ...................................................................................

Write about storyline in b your own words. © Re adthe yEdPu l i c at i ons ................................................................................... •f o rr evi ew pur posesonl y• ...................................................................................

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The name of the author. (That’s you!)

The title of your story.

Include the following on your dust jacket:

Create a dust jacket for a story you have written.

Lastly, decorate and colour your dust jacket. Make it eye-catching!

It is found on the inside of the front cover or on the back of the book.

Include a blurb. This is information that tells the reader what the story is about.

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‘The Book Rap’: Book Appreciation

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Books

‘The Book Rap’: Book Appreciation

Classifying books There are three ways of classifying books. Give an explanation for each one.

Fiction:

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Non-Fiction:

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Reference:

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Snow White

Bananas In Pyjamas

Fiction

Dictionary Chickens

The Three Bears

The Yellow Pages

Non-Fiction

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Classify the following list of books into fiction fiction, non-fiction or reference.

Reference

One Of Y our F avourite Book Characters. Your Favourite

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What is the character’s name?

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List some of your favourite books. Are they fiction or non-fiction?

.................................................................... What is the title of the book?

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Who is the author of this book? .................................................................... Draw this character character..

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‘Christmas Around the World’: Christmas

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‘Christmas Around the World’: Christmas

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CAST OF CHARACTERS

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Cups and saucers Sleigh made from cardboard, coloured (painted) Sacks of presents (empty boxes, etc.) Cardboard fireplace, shoes in front of it Advent Calendars - made by children One ‘Pinata’ made out of paper, with lollies and toys inside Sticks Portable barbecue Plastic glasses Orange juice Chairs Scripts for Narrator(s)

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PROPS

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Santa Claus Mrs Martha Claus Narrator French People Italian People German People Dutch People American People Mexican People Australian People La Befana Sinter Claus (St.Nicholas) Black Peter

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Children portraying people from different countries can wear clothes of colours on the national flags. Santa Costume Saint Nicholas Costume Red robes, tracksuits, black boots, beards made from white cotton wool. Mrs Claus: Casual clothes La Befana: ‘Peasant’ type clothes - long skirt, shawl, flat shoes. Black Peter: Black Clothes

ARRANGEMENT OF ST AGE/PERFORMING AREA STAGE/PERFORMING AREA..

Everyone is on at the same time, in their own little area. Santa and Mrs Claus move from group to group. At the end, everyone moves closer and deliver the closing lines as a whole group. Ready-Ed Publications

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‘Christmas Around the World’: Christmas

SCENE ONE Santa and Mrs Claus are sitting in front of the fire, drinking a hot drink. Santa:

Well, my dear, its nearly that time of year again - Christmas. All the children will be looking forward to their presents.

Mrs Claus:

I’m sure they are! Santa, I’d like to come with you as you deliver the presents this year. I could give you a hand - you know you’re not as young as you used to be. And I’d really like to learn about the different ways Christmas is celebrated around the world.

Santa:

(Beaming happily.) That’s a wonderful idea, Martha. I’d love your company. Well, we’d better get organised.

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Santa and Mrs Claus move over to their ‘sleigh’.

Santa and Mrs Claus loaded up the sleigh with bags of presents for the children of the world. And with an ...

Santa:

Onward, Rudolph!

Narrator:

They were off, flying into the night sky.

Mrs Claus:

Ooh! This is better than taking the Concorde.

Santa:

Ho, Ho, Ho!

Narrator:

Their first stop was France.

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Narrator(s):

© ReadyEdPubl i cat i ons French children: Hello. Welcome. •f o r e v i ew posesonl y• Wer leave our shoes in frontp ofu ther fire Santa and Mrs Claus get out of the sleigh, and are met by a group of ‘French’ children.

Santa:

(Laughing.) I guess that’s me.

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Santa and Mrs Claus place presents in shoes.

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French children: Joyeux Noel to all of you! Narrator(s):

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Early on Christmas Eve Then overnight, we wait for Pere Noel. And the gifts that he will leave.

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The next stop was Italy.

Martha starts unloading the sack. Santa:

Martha, we don’t have to leave any presents here.

Martha:

(Surprised.) How come?

Santa:

Well, Italian children wait until January the 6th, when La Befana comes to give them presents.

Martha:

That’s not until next month.

Italian children:

Ciao Santa and Signora Claus! Would you like to hear the story of ‘La Befana?’

Mrs Claus:

We’d love to!

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‘Christmas Around the World’: Christmas

‘La Befana’ comes out and sweeps. She acts out looking for the Christ child, and leaving presents. The three wise men were on their way to Bethlehem. When they asked ‘La Befana’ to accompany them La Befana was too busy. The three wise men couldn’t wait. By the time she had finished It was far too late! Instead, alone she journeyed The Christ Child she tried to find. For ‘La Befana’ was a good person Generous and kind. Now on the feast of the Epiphany La Befana comes. Bringing presents to Italian children With which we have a lot of fun!

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Mrs Claus:

(Happily.) That’s very interesting, isn’t it Santa?

Santa:

It certainly is! Now, we’d better move on, my dear.

Italian children:

Buon Natale!

Santa and Mrs Claus: (As they rise, to go.) Buon Natale! Narrator(s):

Santa and Mrs Claus got back on their sleigh.

Santa:

Onward, Prancer! Onward Vixen!

Narrator:

Soon they arrived in Germany.

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Italian children:

Santa:

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German children: At the beginning of December These Advent Calendars are made. There are 24 marked doors to open As we count down the days. Mrs Claus:

They’re lovely! Can I have one for my Grandchildren?

German child:

Of course! It is our gift to you.

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German children: Froehliche Weihnachten!

Santa and Mrs Claus: Froehliche Weihnachten to all of you. Narrator(s):

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German children: Welcome, Santa and Mrs Claus. Look, we have made our Advent Calendars. For the coming of Jesus, we are preparing We thank you sincerely for the gifts you are bearing.

Presents were dropped off. Santa and Mrs Claus go back on the sleigh. The Netherlands was the next stop on the journey.

Santa and Mrs claus are met by Sinter Claus (St. Nicholas), Black Peter and some Dutch children. Mrs Claus:

Santa, it looks like you’ve got some competition here.

Santa:

Ho Ho Ho! Yes, he looks a bit like me, doesn’t he?

Dutch children:

St. Nicholas, and his servant, Black Peter Sail to Amsterdam from Spain in a boat. He leads a procession into the city Wearing a bishop’s red coat. We put our clogs by the fireplace

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‘Christmas Around the World’: Christmas

So St. Nicholas will put in nice gifts. On the Eve of his Feast Day Held on December the Sixth. Sinter Claus (St.Nicholas) and Black Peter place gifts on the shoes by the fireplace. Dutch children:

(To Santa and Mrs Claus.) Zalig Kerstfeast!

Santa and Mrs Claus: Zalig Kerstfeast! They get back on the sleigh.

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Well, Santa, it seems that there are other gift bearers bringing Christmas gifts to children.

Santa:

Yes. It certainly makes my job a lot easier. Now, lets see what happening in the U.S.A.

Santa:

Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas to our American friends. Where are you all going?

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Mrs Claus:

American children now sing. We wish you a Merry Christmas, We wish you a Merry Christmas, We wish you a Merry Christmas, And a Happy New Year. Good tidings we bring To you and your kin We wish you a Merry Christmas And a happy New Year.

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American Children: We’re off to sing Christmas Carols to all our neighbours and friends. We knock on doors, and sing to people. Then we get a treat at the end.

Mrs Claus:

What lovely singing!

Santa and Mrs Claus climbed back on board the sleigh and waved goodbye to their American friends.

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Narrator:

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Santa and Mrs Claus: Merry Christmas, everyone! Merry Christmas! Narrator:

Mrs Claus:

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Presents are dropped off by Santa.

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Then they made their way down to Mexico.

MMMM. I just love Mexican food. Enchiladas! Tortillas! Nachos!

Santa and Mrs Claus get off, and are met by a group of Mexican children. Mexican children: children:Hello. Here’s what we do at Christmas time. We take part in nine Posada processions, The first is on December 16th. Re-enacting Mary and Joseph’s search for an inn, The last is on Christmas Eve. We also enjoy breaking Pinatas Which are large jugs made from clay. They are filled with sweets and toys That we enjoy on these special days.

Mrs Claus places presents near the Pinata. The children strike the Pinata softly with the sticks. It should be made to easily fall apart. There is a mad scramble when it does. Page 24

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‘Christmas Around the World’: Christmas

Mexican children: children:Feliz Navidad! Santa and Mrs Claus: Feliz Navidad! Santa and Mrs Claus climbed on board the sleigh again. Mrs Claus:

Where are we off to now, Santa my dear?

Santa:

My love, we are off to Australia!

Narrator:

Santa and Mrs Claus headed Down Under. As they approached Australia, they could feel the temperature rising.

Santa:

I think I’ll have to take off my red coat, Martha. It’s getting rather warm.

Mrs Claus:

Yes, well, Australia does celebrate Christmas in the middle of summer.

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A group of Australian children are standing around a barbecue.

Teac he r Santa:

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Australian Child: How’s it going Santa? And how are you, Mrs Santa? Welcome to you both. Do you fancy a cold drink?

We’d love one, mate! We’re parched!

Two plastic glasses of orange juice are handed to Santa and Mrs Claus, who drink gratefully.

Mrs Claus:

Tell us about your Christmas customs.

Australian Children: People from all over the world Have come to live in this land. Bringing a variety of customs That we share and understand. A great Australian tradition Is Carols By Candlelight. Crowds gather to sing carols together On warm December nights.

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Santa:

Mrs Claus:

That sounds lovely. And with your wonderful weather, you can enjoy Christmas dinner outdoors. Wouldn’t it be lovely to have Christmas dinner outdoors, Santa?

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Mrs Claus:

Yes, but we’d better not try it at the North Pole - we’d freeze! (Santa pretends to be very cold.) Well, thank you one and all for your hospitality!

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Now we must get back to our own family for Christmas.

All the children representing all the different countries now face the audience and speak together, along with Santa and Mrs Claus. Although we have different traditions And celebrate in many different ways. We all share the central message Of this special, wondrous day. CHRIST IS CHRISTMAS! A very Merry Christmas to you all, and Peace on Earth! And - A Happy New Millennium!

THE END Ready-Ed Publications

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‘Christmas Around the World’: Christmas

A Christmas W ord Search Word Find the following words. You can go across, down, diagonally or backwards. La Befana

December

procession

customs

sleigh

Jesus

January

Posada

traditions

presents

Epiphany

St. Nicholas

Pinata

peace

reindeer

Advent

Christ child

candlelight

Mary

Perë Noël

calendars

carols

crowds

Joseph

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Santa

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Ready-Ed Publications

‘Christmas Around the World’: Christmas

Christmas Complete this Christmas acrostic poem.

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List and draw some Christmas symbols.

Buon Natale

France

Merry Christmas

Holland

Joyeux Noël

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Mexico

Feliz Navidad

Australia

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Zalig Kerstfeast

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Froehliche Weihnachten

United States of America

Chung Mung Giang Sinh

Italy

Nollaig Shona Dhuit

Thailand

Kala Christouyenna!

Brazil

Boas Festas e Feliz Ano Novo

Greece

Gesëende Kersfees

Vietnam

Sawadee Pee Mai

Ireland

Merry Christmas

Afrikaans

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‘Christmas Around the World’: Christmas

Crack The Code Crack the codes to reveal some Christmas traditions from around the world. A B C D I 2 3 4

E 5

F G H 6 7 8

16 5 18 5

14 15 5 12

6 18 1 14 3

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___ ___ ___ ___ 12 1

I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

1 14 1

9 20 1 12 25

4 22 5 14 20 3

1 12 5 14 4

1 18 19

5 18 13 1 14 25

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___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ : ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ : ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 19 20 14 9

8 15 12 1

8 15 12 12 1 14 4

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ : ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 3

1 18 15 12 19 9 14 7

9 14 7

21 19 1

1 18 15 12 19

2 25

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

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1 14 4 12 5 12 9

8 20

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ :

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

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Use the letters and numbers to write your own Christmas message. Share it with your friends.

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Ready-Ed Publications

Teac he r

‘Tony’s Panettone’: An Italian Christmas Story

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Tony’s Panettone

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Tony’s Panettone CAST OF CHARACTERS

PROPS

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Biscuits, cakes, paper plates ‘Tony’s Pasticceria’ sign Tables, chairs Mixing bowl, wooden spoons Packet sultanas eggs yeast sugar flour bottle Picture of an oven door Panettone (Italian Christmas cake) Scripts for Narrator(s)

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Tony the Baker Rosa, Tony’s wife Alessandro Lucia Bruno Signora Calzoni Signora Calzoni’s family (about four other people) Tony’s Mamma (mum) Customers (about three other people) Narrator(s)

COSTUMES

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A baker’s apron and hat Other aprons Long dresses Cotton scarves Whatever the children have that resembles 15th Century clothing.

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Ready-Ed Publications

SCENE ONE In the Pasticceria, Tony the Baker is standing behind the counter proudly displaying his ‘biscotti’ (biscuits) and ‘torti’ (cakes). His mamma (mum) is with him. She is also very proud. Narrator(s):

During the 15th century, A very long time ago Lived a baker by the name of Tony Or to his mamma, ‘Antonio’!

Tony’s mamma proudly puts her hand on his cheeks.

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(With an Italian accent.) Antonio? Mio bello figlio! (My beautiful son!)

Narrator(s):

Tony’s dolci (sweets) were legendary. People came from all around To buy torti (cakes) and biscotti (biscuits) That were the best in town.

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Mamma:

Customers come over the counter while the above verse is recited. Tony and his mamma give them small, pre-prepared trays to take away with them. Mamma also exits scene.

SCENE TWO

Narrator(s):

One year later, a week before Christmas, In came Signora Calzoni, with a special request.

Signora Calzoni walks over. She walks very regally, and is extremely well dressed.

I want you, Tony, to create A delicacy that no-one has ever tasted before A unique, celebration cake. Of course, Signora.

Narrator(s):

Tony beamed, delighted with all the praise. But deep down he was somewhat worried.

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Tony:

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© ReadyEdPubl i cat i ons Tony: (Beaming happily.) Grazie, Grazie (thank you) Signora. • f o r r e v i e w p u r p o s e sonl y• Signora Calzoni: For Christmas this year with my family and friends, Signora Calzoni: Tony! I’ve been buying your dolci for years! They are the freshest, and the best!

(Looking worried.) A new, unique cake, in just seven days?

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He says quietly to himself. Signora Calzoni is packing her purchases. Tony scratches his head pensively. Signora Calzoni exits scene. Signora Calzoni: Ciao Tony. Tony:

Si, Ciao Signora! (Brightly.)

SCENE THREE Rosa, Tony’s wife, enters scene. Narrator(s):

In walked Rosa, Tony’s wife His partner in the pasticceria.

Tony explained the situation.

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‘Tony’s Panettone’: An Italian Christmas Story

Rosa:

(Furiously.) You’re joking, right? Haven’t we enough work to do around here? Especially at this busy time of the year!

Rosa throws up her hands in exasperation. Tony:

I’m sure we can come up with something.

Narrator(s):

Answered Tony with more confidence.

Tony:

Let’s treat it as a challenge. A special Christmas cake. Yes! That makes a lot of sense.

r o e t s Bo r SCENE FOUR e p ok u S Alessandro, Lucia and Bruno enter scene.

The ‘family’ pretends to make the cake. Narrator(s):

Their first attempt was much too sweet.

Alessandro:

Troppo dolce! (too sweet) (After tasting some.)

Narrator(s):

Their second, much too tart.

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Tony and Rosa set to work straight away Their three children came and helped out. Alessandro, Lucia and Bruno, all knew What the pasticceria business was all about.

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Narrator(s):

some.) much ©(EatsR eaUggh! dyToo E dlemon, Pupapa! bl i cat i ons Narrator(s): The third attempt came out as flat as a pancake. •f orr evi ew pur posesonl y• Bruno holds up a cardboard circle. Lucia:

Their fourth, well, it just fell apart.

Pre-cut cake literally ‘falls’ apart.

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Bruno:

Oh well. Back to the drawing board.

Everyone nods their head in agreement. Narrator(s): Tony:

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Narrator(s):

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There were now only two days before Christmas Time was fast flying by.

(Worried.) We’d better come up with something pretty quickly.

Narrator(s):

Tony said, with a worried look in his eyes.

Tony:

Signora Calzoni is a powerful woman She can help us, that’s understood. She will tell all her friends about our pasticceria. So we’ve got to come up with the goods.

Narrator(s):

So the family all put their heads together. And put together a possible list Of delicious, suitable ingredients, A combination too hard to resist.

Family members take turns at pouring ingredients into the mixing bowl. Rosa mixes with a wooden spoon. Page 32

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‘Tony’s Panettone’: An Italian Christmas Story

Rosa:

Natural egg yolk, sultanas, yeast, sugar and flour. Let it rise.

Alessandro:

Cook it till it has a crispy brown head.

Lucia:

Take it out. Let it cool, and here we have it.

Tony:

Pane (bread) di Toni! (of Tony) A new festive bread!

Bruno holds up a panettone on a tray. All the family look at it admiringly. All the family exit scene, except Tony, who stays there with the panettone. Signora Calzoni enters scene, walking briskly over to the counter. Narrator(s):

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Signora Calzoni waltzed in on Christmas Eve. When she saw the Pane di Toni, she was so impressed.

Signora Calzoni: Grazie, Grazie Tony! What a work of art! I will enjoy serving this to my guests.

Signora, you are too kind with your praise. However, I cannot take all the credit. My family worked together.

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Tony:

Signora Calzoni: Please thank your family for me. Buon Natale! (Merry Christmas!) Signora Calzone takes the Pane di Toni home.

SCENE FIVE

‘Guests’ enter scene. Sit down at festive table. Signora Calzone is sitting at her table with her guests on Christmas Day.

MMMM! Bellissimo! (Beautiful!)

Guest T wo: Two:

Delizioso! (Delicious)

Guest Three:

Io voglio piu! (I want some more!)

Guest F our: Four:

Dove si compra? (Where can I buy it?)

Narrator(s):

Signora Calzone sang Tony’s family’s praises And the word quickly spread. So, when next Christmas come around Everyone wanted this special bread. ‘Pane di Toni’ became very popular Its fame spread far and wide. Now, every year at Christmas It’s a sweet most Italian people buy.

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Guest One:

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Calzoni served the Pane di Toni ©Signora R e a dyEdPubl i cat i ons As part of her Christmas feast. Do you know, every last crumb disappeared was delicious, tow say the •f oItr r evi e pleast! ur posesonl y•

Narrator(s):

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While the above verse is recited, all the characters come together and face the audience. Characters all together: So, if you’ve never tried panettone, Next Christmas, give it a go! We’re sure that you’ll find it so delicious, That you’ll want to let all your friends know!

THE END

NOTE TO TEACHERS: If you want to use a real panettone as a prop in this play, they can be bought at most supermarkets during the lead up to Christmas. Ready-Ed Publications

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‘Tony’s Panettone’: An Italian Christmas Story

Word Search Find the following words. They are all in the story “Tony’s Panettone”. You can go across, down, diagonally or backwards. pasticceria baker biscotti

Christmas

dolci

Tony

family

festive

Italian

delicacy

Rosa

Signora

sugar

yeast

ciao

Alessandro

Calzoni

flour

sultanas

guests

Lucia

praise

bread

sweet

delicious

Bruno

fame

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k e

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yolk

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Teac he r

torti

panettone

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Ready-Ed Publications

‘Tony’s Panettone’: An Italian Christmas Story

Crack the code Crack the code to reveal the hidden messages. Then write your own message and share it with a friend. Colour in the picture afterwards. A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z I 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

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___ ___

___

9 20 1 12 9

1 14

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

5 19 20 9 22 5

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

19 16 5

2 18 5

22 5 18 25

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

___ ___

___ ___ ___ ___

8 18 9 19 20 13 1 19

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 20

1 12

___ ___ ___ ___ ___

9 19

1 20

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

2) 16 1 14 5 20 20 15 14 5

16 15 16 21 12 1 18

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1) 16 1 14 5 20 20 15 14 5

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3) Now make up your own message using information from the play. Share it with a friend.

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Shade this section green, These are the colours of the Italian flag.

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List famous Italian cities and towns.

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List as many Italian foods as you can.

and this section red.

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this section white

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Name some famous Italian people. They can be living or non-living. Add what they are famous for.

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Famous Italian People, Food and Cities

‘Tony’s Panettone’: An Italian Christmas Story

Ready-Ed Publications