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Overview of Y2 Spring Term Part 1
TALES FROM OTHER CULTURES - ‘PETER AND THE DYKE’

An alternative story to ‘Who Made Me?’ is ‘Peter and the Dyke’

Truth to Teach (Source)

Heart concept: Wisdom

 We have an inheritance of old, old stories or folk tales from other cultures, among
which are gems of wisdom for the discerning.

Way to Work (Means)

1. Explain that we have been considering old, old stories this term, and looking out for
‘diamonds in the dust’. Review some of the previous lessons.

2. Talk about folk tales coming from other countries for us to enjoy. Explain that
today’s story is from Holland. Locate Holland on a map. Explain about the flatness of
the land, how much of it is below sea-level, how the resourceful people have built

dykes to keep the sea water out, etc. Then tell the story of the little Dutch boy, who
put his hand in the hole in the dyke and saved his country from being flooded. It is
quite authentic to tell this without pictures, with the children gathered around.

Peter – with his parents - grandmother in a neighbouring village – he went to see her
every week and would stay the night.

In school – v. windy and rainy – storm coming on. After school – what to do? –

home?/ grandmother? - decided to visit her. Set off along the side of the dyke.

Few people about – skies very dark – sees water on the path – it’s coming from the
dyke – what to do? – back?/on?/nobody near to call/ - does all he can think of –
puts his hand in the dyke – somebody is bound to come along soon – getting colder –

mustn’t give up – falls asleep, with hand in the dyke.

Next morning storm has passed – Three men on their way to work – come upon
someone slumped by the dyke – a boy – instantly realise the situation – one lifts

Peter - one blocks the hole – one gets help to fix the hole. Peter stirs enough to tell
them who he is – big man carries him home – parents surprised – they thought he was
with his grandmother (she thought he was with his parents!) – taken inside and put to
bed – very proud of their courageous boy, who saved so many Dutch people and their

homes by his brave act.

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