Resource Pack: Power of the Pen (Primary)
Engage pupils in literacy across the curriculum as they discover the power of writing letters for people whose rights and lives are at risk. Our Power of the Pen resource pack is a compelling way for pupils to explore global issues and build skills in literacy, persuasive writing and self-expression by writing for a real purpose.
Every year we inspire thousands of people to write letters to help stop human rights abuses. These letters hold governments to account, protect lives, and show support to people around the world. This resource will enable pupils to discover the impact their words can have as they write letters in support of real people in real danger now. Updates on these cases will be available here.
- Pupils aged 9-11 use images and a case study to discover new vocabulary and explore human rights.
- This free resource is developed by literacy specialists, and can be taught as two one-hour lessons or extended to three one-hour lessons. All resources are available to download at the bottom of this page.
- Supports key curricular requirements in Literacy, English, Geography, Citizenship, PSE, RME, Social Studies, Health and Well Being. Promotes global learning and understanding of human rights, and supports spiritual, moral and cultural development.
Success: Moses freed
A huge thank you to everyone who sent solidarity letters and appeals for Moses Akatugba through Power of the Pen. Moses was facing execution in Nigeria after being charged with stealing mobile phones as a teenager.
Thanks to pressure from tens of thousands of people all over the world, the Nigerian authorities couldn't ignore the injustice dealt to Moses. Emmanuel Uduaghan, the Governor of Delta State, pardoned Moses in June 2015.
Thank you to all who supported Moses - your actions really do affect lives around the world.
Success: Eskinder freed
A huge thank you to everyone who sent solidarity letters and appeals for Eskinder Nega through Power of the Pen. Eskinder is an Ethiopian journalist and blogger who was sentenced 18 years in prison after criticising the government.
On Thursday 8 February 2018 Amnesty International received the news that Eskinder is to be released.
Sarah Jackson, Amnesty International’s East Africa Deputy Regional Director, said:
“It is wonderful news that this brave journalist will soon walk to freedom after seven years spent in jail simply for doing his job.
“He should not have spent a single day behind bars”