Divided City

Product Information

Breslin’s book is broad-minded and bold in the way it refuses to dodge the issues while at the same time trying to give as balanced a view as a writer can of the prejudice that divides friends, families and neighbours. Breslin’s book will grab a few headlines, and if it gets people thinking, especially young people, but just as importantly, adults, then it’s done some good. The fact that it’s also a great wee story is a bonus.

Graham took his hands from his head. He stepped from the doorway onto the street. Went slowly forward to look at the huddled body lying on the ground. Beside the paper ball of his chip bag there was a puddle of liquid. Under the light of the street lamp it reflected dull red. It was seeping from below the body of the boy. Moving out towards Graham’s feet.The six workshops cover an exploration of discrimination, the history of sectarianism and the impact of sectarianism on friendships and on individuals. Ultimately, these activities are designed to encourage young people to form their own points of view and feel able to respectfully challenge those with whom they disagree. Divided City is a novel written by Theresa Breslin and published on 5 May 2005 by Doubleday. The novel is written for teenagers and adults concerning the problems of sectarianism in Glasgow and racism against asylum seekers. [1]

The resource includes a variety of items such as letter templates for communication with parents and worksheets. The modular style of the resource allows practitioners to shape the project to meet the needs of their own learners within their own community environment, making the experience as relevant as possible. What age group is the resource aimed at? Graham’s eyes widened in terror. He couldn’t speak, couldn’t take his gaze from the knife. The boy raised his knife. ‘Speak, ya wee—’ At the end of Reglan Street nearest the playing fields, huge shadows danced. The outline of the hunters – distorted and elongated against the bright floodlights used for night games on the football pitches. Graham saw them gather together, become one monstrous creature, then break apart. Their twisted shapes thrown out ahead of them as they came. Seeking. Searching.

How to use this resource

How does this work link with the range of protected characteristics that are defined by the Equality Act (2010)? The activities included in this resource create a space for pupils to explore the themes of prejudice, discrimination and bigotry; there is an opportunity for teachers to deliver the session within a wider inclusion-focused project.

The novel study prepares P7 children for wider influences across the community which they may experience in their move to secondary education. The book is very easy to read. It has a good plot which moves along at a good pace. The book is well constructed and well written. The author uses language which is easy to understand without making the book simple and boring. A 'must read' for all teenagers and adults! The resource has been specifically designed for Primary 6 and Primary 7. However, in the majority of schools, P7 has been identified as the ideal stage for a number of reasons, including: Graham pressed himself against the door, glad of his skinny frame. The remainder of the gang came down the street, veering onto the pavement as they spotted him. The main characters are young boys called Graham, a Protestant supporting Rangers. Joe, a Catholic supporting Celtic, and a young asylum seeker named Kyoul.

Explore this resource

If he began to run the gang of boys would think he was running from them – might mistake him for the one they were after. His heart was hammering. He didn’t want involved in this. A variety of activities are utilised with many drama activities incorporated which support young learners to walk in the shoes of people with different viewpoints and beliefs.