Wednesday, 1 January 2025

New year

 



What do you see in the picture? What's the story?

People around the world celebrated New Year last week with huge gatherings and firework displays in major cities.
 

 celebrations in Damascus, Syria

celebrations in Baghdad, Iraq.

This photo shows people celebrating in Moscow, Russia.

Why do so many people celebrate new year?

What is the famous song that many people sing as new year begins?

Should old acquaintance be forgot 
And never bought to mind?
Should old acquaintance be forgot 
And old lang syne

For auld lang syne, my dear
For auld lang syne,
We'll take a cup of kindness yet
For auld lang syne

What do you think these words mean, what are they saying, why sing these words as a new year begins?

The song is credited to Robert Burns who wrote his version in 1788, and was based on an old folk song. The words encourage you, on the last day of the year, to look back and remember friends fondly.

The top photo shows an image from the firework display in London.

During the London firework display, a holographic Paddington appeared and said this:

"As we enter the new year, I always remember what Mrs Brown says; "In London, everyone is different. But that means anyone can fit in. I think she must be right because although I don't look like anyone else, I really do feel at home. Happy new year, love from Paddington."

(there is a link to watch the clip in the Sky news link above)

What do you think about this little speech, why do you think the organisers chose those words to bring in the new year?

If you were to extend this speech, what could you say next?

What do we say at our school about being different and fitting in?
Why is this about no outsiders?
Which British value is this about?

No Outsiders: We belong here by Andrew Moffat  (scheme of work for primary schools)