Behind the Scenes & Shooting for the Stars Lvl 31

This engaging paired text offers two perspectives on the world of acting-one fictional and one factual. Behind the Scenes follows Carla, a student who lands a role in a blockbuster film, only to discover that fame can bring unexpected challenges at school. Through a first-person narrative, readers are invited into Carla's world, where friendship, jealousy, and resilience collide. The companion non-fiction text, Shooting for the Stars, presents a factual report on the history of acting, the skills required for the profession, and the real-life experiences of a young actor, Deanna Lake. Rich in specialised vocabulary and visual features, this paired reader builds a bridge between imagination and real-world understanding. It encourages students to draw connections between texts and supports critical thinking through comparisons of theme, purpose, and form.

Educational Benefits:

• Builds inferencing and character analysis skills through realistic fiction.
• Teaches the structure and features of factual reports.
• Enhances vocabulary related to drama and performing arts.
• Promotes media literacy and understanding of careers in the arts.

Classroom Ideas:

• Compare Carla's fictional experience with Deanna's real-life story in a Venn diagram.
• Explore persuasive writing by creating œaudition speeches or biographies.
• Invite a local performer to speak to students or conduct a drama workshop.
• Have students script and perform a short scene inspired by the text.

Safety & Information:

• Suitable for ages: 9+
• Book size: 215mm x 225mm
• Reading Level: 31+
• Safe for independent or guided group reading