Core Skills Analysis
Design and Technology
Mikhail made a wardrobe inspired by *The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe*, turning an idea from a book into a designed object. The activity gave Mikhail practice in considering how an object’s form could connect with a story and in making a physical creation. It also offered experience with creative problem-solving as Mikhail worked to bring the wardrobe concept to life. This kind of making can build confidence in developing an idea through hands-on design.
English
Mikhail connected a crafted object with *The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe*, showing how a story can inspire creative work in another medium. The activity supported recognition of the book’s central wardrobe as a meaningful story element and encouraged Mikhail to respond to literature through making. It also created an opportunity to communicate an interpretation of the story visually and materially. This links reading with imaginative response and personal engagement with a text.
Tips
Tips — Invite Mikhail to sketch the wardrobe before making another version, label its features, and explain how each detail connects to the story. Read a favourite passage about the wardrobe together, then compare how words help readers imagine a place with how a crafted object communicates an idea. Try designing a miniature room or a new portal inspired by a different book, using recycled materials and discussing which choices make the design recognisable. Finish with a short presentation in which Mikhail describes the design process and reflects on what might be changed in a future version.
Book Recommendations
- The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis: The classic fantasy novel that inspired Mikhail’s wardrobe-making activity.
- The Complete Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis: A collected edition for exploring more of the imaginative world connected to the activity.
- The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter: A well-known story that can inspire another literary response through drawing or making.
Learning Standards
- English — EN4-ECA-01.6: The wardrobe-making activity connected a literary idea with a visual or material representation.
- English — EN4-URC-01: The activity made a connection between a valued text and a creative response to it.
- English — EN4-RVL-01.3: The book provided a basis for imaginative engagement with a text selected for interest and enjoyment.
- Mathematics — MAO-WM-01 (extension): Sketching, describing design choices, and explaining a making process can support communicating reasoning; the activity description alone does not establish specific mathematical content.
Try This Next
- Design worksheet: sketch a wardrobe, label its features, and note which story idea inspired each choice.
- Writing prompt: describe what a character might discover after opening Mikhail’s wardrobe.
- Make-and-compare task: create a small wardrobe from recycled materials, then explain how its design communicates the book connection.