Here are some writing ideas based on the popular children’s novel The Iron Man by Ted Hughes.

Chapter One

1. Write a diary entry from the point of view of a witness to the Iron Man’s fall onto the beach, such as a fisherman or swimmer.

2. Write an internal monologue from the point of view of one of the seagulls as it watches the Iron Man put himself back together.

Chapter Two

1. Write a diary entry from Hogarth’s point of view, describing how he felt when he first saw the Iron Man.

2. Write a dialogue between Hogarth and his parents when he tells them about the Iron Man. This is a great opportunity for role play in the planning process.

3. Create a newspaper report about the discovery of the Iron Man and the distruction he has caused.

4. Write recounts from different perspectives about the Iron Man being discovered.

Chapter Three

1. Create a set of instructions describing how to capture the Iron Man.

2. Write an apology letter from Hogarth to the Iron Man for his role in capturing the giant.

Chapter Four

1. Wrtie an interview article of one of the characters in the story such as Hogarth.

Chapter Five

1. Create a character profile for the Iron Man, Hogarth or the Dragon.

2. Write a non-chronological report about the Iron Man or Dragon.

3. Write an apology letter from the Dragon about his behaviour towards the people of the world.

4. Create a playscript about the events in the final two chapters of the book.