Bonfire night

To show that we should give consideration to other people at this noisy time of year.

by Jan Edmunds

Suitable for Whole School (Pri)

Aims

To show that we should give consideration to other people at this noisy time of year.

Preparation and materials

• You will need an OHP/Whiteboard or flipchart for reading the poem.
• Write each letter of the poem title on individual pieces of A4 card. As the acrostic poem is read, a child can hold up the appropriate card, eventually forming the words ‘BONFIRE NIGHT’.

Assembly

1. November is the month when every year children get very excited about celebrating Bonfire Night. We can all have lots of fun but fireworks can be very dangerous if not used sensibly.
2. Listen to this poem and see what you can learn from it.
   
   Bonfire Night
   by Jan Edmunds
   
   Bonfire night is special and can be lots of fun,
   Oh so much excitement for both old and young.
   Never get too near though – keep well away,
   Fireworks can hurt you and should not be used for play.
   Injuries can happen when they first explode.
   Remember, remember, remember the firework code,
   Enjoy your fireworks and join in the fun.
   
   Not forgetting how they can be frightening for some:
   Infants and animals, old people too,
   Give them some thought in whatever you do.
   Have a good time but stay well aware,
   Think what you do, and show that you care.
3. Points for discussion can be taken from the poem: How can we make sure our pets are not frightened? Why are organized bonfires better than having one in our own garden? Why should we leave it to a grown up to let off any fireworks?
4. If time allows, you might like to say this firework poem with the children. They enjoy the alliteration and doing appropriate actions.
   
   Whish, whoosh up to the sky,
   Sparkling and spluttering,
   Fireworks fly.
   Whish, whoosh, ever so high,
   Up in the air, then fall down and die.

Time for reflection

Reflection

Think about what you have heard today.
We can still enjoy ourselves but we should think about the fact that what is enjoyable to us may be frightening or annoying to some.
Think about people you know who may be worried by fireworks.
Think about pets that may be upset by fireworks.
Think about keeping yourself safe around fireworks.

Prayer

Dear God,

Keep us safe and help us to be sensible and thoughtful in all that we do.

Help us to remember that safety and care for others is our responsibility.

Amen.

Song/music

‘When I needed a neighbour’ (Come and Praise, 65)