Introduction
Mary Poppins, a classic tale created by P.L. Travers in 1934, has been captivating the hearts and minds of children and adults alike for generations. This magical story introduces us to an extraordinary nanny who uses her unique abilities to teach valuable lessons to the Banks family. As educators, we can use the story of Mary Poppins to engage our students’ imagination while teaching essential life skills and fostering an appreciation for the world of literature.
Rediscovering the Original Story
Before diving into teaching Mary Poppins, it’s essential to differentiate between various adaptations available. While most students will likely be familiar with Disney’s 1964 and 2018 movies, we should encourage them to explore the original books. By examining P.L. Travers’ work directly, students can gain an appreciation for the source material and understand that adaptations can sometimes differ significantly from their original stories.
Introducing Fantasy and Imagination
One of the central themes in Mary Poppins is the blurring line between fantasy and reality. By incorporating playful elements such as talking animals, magical objects, and whimsical characters, Travers encourages readers to embrace their imagination. Educators can use this aspect of the story to foster creativity within their students by having them write their imaginative stories or engage in role-playing activities inspired by Mary Poppins.
Lessons in Kindness and Empathy
Through her interactions with the Banks family, particularly Jane and Michael, Mary Poppins teaches lessons on kindness, empathy, and seeing people for who they truly are. Encourage your students to discuss morally challenging situations presented within the book or movie adaptations and ask them how they might have reacted if put in those same positions.
Exploring Edwardian England
Mary Poppins provides readers with a glimpse into early 20th century English culture during the Edwardian period. Use this opportunity to discuss the setting and historical context of the story with your students. Topics for discussion can include the class system, societal expectations, and daily life in London during that time.
Creative Activities and Assignments
To further engage your students in the world of Mary Poppins, consider incorporating various creative activities into your lesson plan:
- Create Mary Poppins-inspired artwork or illustrations.
- Write a new adventure for Mary Poppins and the Banks children.
- Craft chalk drawings inspired by the infamous sidewalk scenes.
- Learn and sing some of the iconic songs from Disney’s film adaptations.
- Host a Mary Poppins-themed tea party as a reward for successful completion of assignments.
Conclusion
Teaching students about the story of Mary Poppins presents an opportunity to indulge their imagination while reinforcing essential values such as kindness, empathy, and understanding beyond surface appearances. By engaging students in discussions, creative assignments, and learning about the historical context, we create a lasting impression that carries on through their lives beyond the classroom walls.
