Margaret Mahy Playground — Teacher Answers
A2 · 50–60 minutes
The picture is an imagined playground scene, not a photograph of the real site. Learners can plan a visit without making one. Read the listening script from the teacher answers twice.
1–2. Goals and reading
Gather ideas from the illustration. Read once for the main idea and again for details. Clarify new words through examples.
3. Vocabulary
1–D; 2–F; 3–B; 4–A; 5–E; 6–C. Original sentences vary.
4. Reading comprehension
- In central Christchurch, beside the Ōtākaro Avon River.
- A well-known New Zealand writer of children’s books.
- Any two: slides, swings, tunnels or a climbing tower.
- Water cannons and sprinklers.
- Taking turns, sharing or encouraging one another.
- People have different interests, abilities and needs.
- Where to meet and what to bring.
5. Grammar
1. lower; 2. quieter; 3. easier; 4. more exciting. These are language-practice examples, not factual comparisons about the real playground.
6. Listening and speaking
Read this script twice at a clear, natural pace. Allow learners to read the questions first.
Our class is planning an outing to Margaret Mahy Playground. We will meet outside the school at ten o’clock on Friday. We will walk together to the playground. Please bring a water bottle and a sunhat. First, we will look around and choose some activities. Then we will sit together and talk about our favourite part. We will return to school before lunch.
Listening answers: 1. Outside the school. 2. Ten o’clock / 10 am on Friday. 3. A water bottle and a sunhat. The script describes an imaginary class outing, not a booked event.
Speaking responses vary. Look for relevant answers, reasons and turn-taking. Model one response and offer sentence frames as needed.
7. Writing
Check the requested length or number of steps, relevant details, connected ideas and the requested language. Accept other sensible responses.
Possible model: Our family is going to visit the playground on Saturday. We will meet our cousins at the entrance at ten o’clock. First, we want to try the swings. Then we will explore the water-play area. My younger cousin likes quieter activities, so we will also find a place for a simple game. We will bring water bottles and sunhats. I think this outing will be more exciting than staying at home.
8. Something New
1–C; 2–A; 3–D; 4–B. Original sentences vary.
9–10. Reflection and final challenge
Answers vary. Check the response against the final challenge on the student page. Ask learners to explain one choice and identify one improvement.
Suggested timing
Goals and warmer: 5 minutes; reading: 8; vocabulary: 6; comprehension: 7; grammar: 6; listening and speaking: 10; writing: 10; game and reflection: 5. Use the final challenge as an extension or homework.