Spring and Port Wine
Heinemann Plays For 14-16+ Series
on Goodreads (57)
What’s inside...
The 'Heinemann Plays' series offers contemporary drama and classic plays in durable classroom editions. Many have large casts and an equal mix of boy and girl parts. In this play, the whole Crompton family becomes entangled in a row in which a good many uncomfortable truths are told.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
14-17
Length
123 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Rafe Crompton
Hilda Crompton
Florence Crompton
Daisy Crompton
Arthur Gasket
Wilfred Crompton
Harold Crompton
Discussion points
What do you think the main message of the story is and why?
How do the different characters in the book show love to one another?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to a character in the story? What happened and how did you feel?
What lessons do the characters learn by the end of the book? Do you agree with these lessons?
If you could change one thing in the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child what they liked about the story and why, to warm up the conversation.
Allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story freely, without interrupting them.
Reflect back what you hear from your child, showing that you understand and validating their perspective.
Discuss the actions and decisions of the characters to help your child develop empathy and understanding of different viewpoints.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to foster creative thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family unity
Explanation: In 'Spring and Port Wine,' the Crompton family navigates various conflicts which ultimately shows that despite differences, family unity is crucial.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value their family members, understand differences, and work toward resolving conflicts to maintain harmony at home.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and honesty
Explanation: The story emphasizes the consequences of dishonesty and the importance of being responsible through the conflicts arising from hidden truths within the Crompton family.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to practice honesty in their dealings and understand the importance of taking responsibility for their actions.
Example Lesson: Understanding and empathy
Explanation: As the characters in the play attempt to understand each other's perspectives, it demonstrates the importance of empathy in resolving misunderstandings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more empathetic and considerate, helping them to build stronger relationships with others around them.
Example Lesson: Value of communication
Explanation: The book highlights how open communication can prevent misunderstandings and resolve conflicts, as seen in the interactions within the Crompton family.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the importance of expressing themselves clearly and listening to others, skills that are essential in every aspect of life.