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Video summary

Actress and comedian Nina Wadia reads extracts from 'Lizzie Zipmouth' by Jacqueline Wilson (illustrated by Nick Sharrat) and explains why she loves the book.

As Nina Wadia drives Lizzie Zipmouth around, she introduces the story of a young girl facing enormous change as she and her mum move in with a new step-dad and step-brothers.

Nina explores the themes of loneliness, bullying and friendship, as well as how people solve problems in their lives.

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

Lizzie Zipmouth Teacher Notes

KS1 and KS2 English Discussion Questions

Before watching the video:

• Do you know any other books by Jacqueline Wilson?
• Have you ever been in a situation where you felt like not speaking? How did it make you feel?
• What do you think are some reasons why a person might choose not to talk or remain silent?

While watching the video:

• Pause at 01:46 - Who calls Lizzie 'Lizzie Zipmouth' in an unkind way?
• Pause at 03:36 - Why does Nadia say she likes the book?
• Pause at 05:18 - Can you guess whose eyes are all on Lizzie at Great-Gran’s house?

After watching the video:

• Do you think Lizzie decides to talk? Why or why not?
• Imagine you're a character in the story. What would you say to Lizzie to encourage her to speak again?
• What lessons might we learn about understanding and helping others during difficult times from this story?

KS1 and KS2 English Activity Suggestions

1. Design Lizzie's Diary: Imagine you are Lizzie and create a diary entry using drawings or written words to express how you feel about the move and the challenges you face in your new home.
2. Support Squads: Form small groups and discuss how you can support a friend who is going through a challenging time, just like Lizzie. Share your ideas with the class and create a support pledge together.
3. Family Portraits: Have each child create a family portrait by drawing or labelling a photo, including their names. Encourage sharing through a group discussion to develop respect for diverse family structures.

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 personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education knowledge and skills in meaningful contexts across all UK curricula.

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