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Video summary

Presenter and comedian Ed Petrie reads extracts from 'Cosmic' by Frank Cottrell Boyce and illustrated by Steven Lenton.

He explains why he loves the book and shares how it captured his imagination.

Ed shares the story of how Liam, an extraordinarily tall boy, is launched into space in an ice cream van.

Which, even if you're completely doomed, is still pretty impressive, he thinks.

As he reads, Ed himself is sucked into the adventure. But what will happen to him beyond Earth's orbit, and will he make it home?

This clip is from the series Bringing Books to Life 2.

Cosmic Teacher Notes

KS1 and KS2 English Discussion Questions

Before watching the video:

• What do you know about space? Can you name any planets, moons, stars or galaxies in our solar system?
• Have you read any other books about space adventures? If so, which ones would you recommend?
• What's your favourite thing about space and why?

While watching the video:

• Pause at 01:09 - Where was Liam supposed to have gone on his school trip?
• Pause at 02:12 - Why is Liam on the rocket? What lie did he tell about himself this time?
• Pause at 03:50 - Who was the fourth man to walk on the moon?

After watching the video:

• What do you think Liam missed the most about Earth while he was in space?
• If you were going into outer space, what three things would you bring with you and why?
• Is it always wrong to tell a lie or are there situations where it might be okay?

KS1 and KS2 English Activity Suggestions

1. Truthful Tales: Write a short story about a character who faces a tough choice between telling the truth and telling a lie. What decision does the character make and what happens as a result? Do they get themselves into trouble?
2. Astronaut Adventures: Imagine being an astronaut and learn about the challenges they face in space. Understand what it takes to live and work in a weightless environment and how they prepare for their extraordinary missions.
3. Planet Postcards: Choose a planet from our solar system and create a postcard from your imaginary trip there. Draw the planet and write a message about your interplanetary adventure!

Take a look at our 500 Words resources for further inspiration around story writing.

These videos contribute to the current national curriculum requirements in:

• England - KS1/KS2 English: Develop positive attitudes to reading and understanding of what they read.
• Northern, Ireland - KS1/KS2 Language and Literacy: Extend the range of their reading and develop their own preferences.
• Scotland - 1st and 2nd Level Literacy and English: Reading - Enjoyment and choice.
• Wales - Progression Step 2/3 Languages, Literacy and Communication: Literature fires imagination and inspires creativity.

These discussion questions and activity suggestions provide opportunities to develop english and science knowledge and skills in meaningful contexts across all UK curricula.

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