'The Return of the Moon Man' is a short story by English writer Eric Malpass, and is almost impossible to classify. Part folk tale, part science fiction it is set in Wales in a future that looks remarkably like the present - or the past!

Techno-phobic Mortimer Griffiths is furious to find that the very first attempt to reach the moon by space craft ends up with a slightly dented space ship in his field, together with a 'moon man' who cried off hurt because he's bitten his tongue. Or is Grandfather Griffiths as angry as he appeared? Where does he disappear to, and why does Gran keep looking at the moon?

The BritLit materials for this engaging little story introduce the reader to the characters, especially Grandfather and Gran, and to the place - Wales. A whole range of issues linked to the context of the story are explored, from alternative technology, to folk tales to space exploration to the Welsh language. In addition, some of the interesting language used in the story ("Then she said 'Shrinking it is' and came home again") is explored, as well as more conventional language challenges presented by the story.

The material has been put together by a group of teachers over some months, and is growing all the time. You are advised to check back regularly to see what has been added!

Downloads

• Short story 1.1mb pdf complete text of 'The Return of the Moon Man'

• Introduction for teachers 373k pdf

• Characterisation 551k pdf Character based activities

• Context 2.25mb pdf background information and exercises

• Word Work 413k pdf language activities

• After reading exercises 296k pdf follow-up and consolidation

• Answer key 210k pdf teacher's notes for activities.