English / Year 4 / Language / Expressing and developing ideas

• TLF-IDM019896

Did you know that libraries have been around for over 4000 years? For a very long time, you could only borrow books from libraries, but in recent years this has changed. You can now borrow magazines, DVDs, CDs and even download ebooks! How does Sarah, the reporter, feel about this? How does Debra, the librarian, feel about ...

• TLF-IDM020969

As a writer, what are some of the things you have to consider when writing a picture book as opposed to a novel? Think of the differences in format, layout and work processes. Why does Lili Wilkinson think it is harder, in some ways, to write a picture book? What makes it easier in other ways?

• TLF-IDM016280

A web page resource with information, teacher guides and activities on types of sentences to support the Australian Curriculum in English K–10. It has detailed activities, links to resources and quizzes.

• TLF-IDM021455

Are you interested in creating comics or graphic novels for a living? Listen as graphic novelist Mariko Tamaki shares her tips. Why not take her advice: read widely and start creating and sharing!

• TLF-IDM017892

Animation is a relatively recent art form. Some might see it as strange to use animations to tell ancient stories, while others feel that this is a unique way to share such stories with a new generation. Watch this animation of 'Namorrodor' and explore your response to an old story told in a new way. Be aware that this ...

• TLF-IDM017484

Books by the Australian children's author Bob Graham have a very individual and recognisable style. Find out why his work is featured in the Lu Rees Australian Children's Literature Archive housed in Canberra. Identify some of the features that characterise his work.

• TLF-IDM020927

Andrew Joyner is an illustrator (and sometimes author) of children’s books. Watch this clip and find out why he loves drawing elephants so much. What techniques does he use to build his drawings? What materials and tools does he use to create his illustrations? Andrew describes the way he works with a designer and publisher ...

• TLF-IDM019933

Is it important to like characters in a book you're reading? If so, why? If not, why not? Watch as Leigh Hobbs explains why he thinks people like the character of Old Tom in his book, The Big Book of Old Tom.

• TLF-IDM021458

Dougal MacPherson is the illustrator of Introducing Teddy, a story about being yourself. Watch as Dougal describes the way his illustrations help tell the story of a teddy called Thomas, who realises he's much happier being Tilly. How and why do Dougal's illustrations change as Teddy's story is told? Choose a picture book ...

• TLF-IDM017240

Have you ever had a sudden burst of inspiration and wondered where it came from? That was the case for Michael Leunig, well-known Australian cartoonist, writer, artist and philosopher. Sometimes ideas come to us in abstract ways, as symbols. In this audio clip, Leunig explains the symbolism behind his now famous 'direction-finding ...