Exploring Jack and the Beanstalk Through Playful Learning

Jack and The Beanstalk in my Grade 1 Classroom

This week, we focused on the classic tale Jack and the Beanstalk. We read several different versions of the story and spent time comparing and contrasting the characters, settings, and key events. We also watched a few video versions, giving students another way to explore the similarities and differences between each version.

Retelling Practice

To support story retelling, I set up several play invitations. These gave students the chance to act out the story in their own way. One of the most exciting moments came when a group of students chose to use magna-tiles to build the giant’s castle. This idea didn’t come from me—it came from them! The castle I had provided in the retelling area was too small for how they wanted to tell the story, so they created their own version using materials that met their needs.

When we give children choice during play, we open the door for deeper learning. Play allows them to revisit and build on ideas in ways that make sense to them. The magna-tile castle wasn’t part of my original plan, but it turned out to be a powerful way for students to take ownership of their learning and show their understanding of the story.

This series of lessons followed a week of lessons focused on the Needs and Characteristics of Plants. Here is the link to that post if you would like to read more.