The Grand Patch-Up: A Story of Friendship, Forgiveness, and Building Bridges

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PARENT TEACHER GUIDE

The Grand Patch Up

Average Rating: 5.0

Country: India

Author: Karthika G

Illustrator: Tasneem Amiruddin

Ages: 5-8

Publisher: Pratham books

Story Source: StoryWeaver

About The Story

Mary and Josana are neighbors and best friends. But when Mary says something unkind, Josana is hurt. Mary regrets it and decides to make amends—not just with words, but by building a real bridge between their homes! This sweet, metaphorical gesture reconnects the two friends and teaches children the power of apologies and creative thinking.

Themes

Family & Friends

Social & Emotional Learning

STEAM

Sub Themes

Parent-Teacher Guide

Learning Outcome

Understand the value of friendship, empathy, and apologies.
Explore basic concepts of bridge construction (beam bridges).
Recognize the symbolic and emotional act of “building bridges” in relationships.
Learn about real-world bridges including the living root bridges of Meghalaya.

Lesson Plan

This story introduces the emotional ups and downs of friendship and the importance of making amends.
The STEAM component allows students to channel this theme into action by building bridges—literally!

Activities

Using ice cream sticks or cardboard, build a simple beam bridge between two chairs/books.
Test what the bridge can hold—coins, erasers, or paper clips.
Compare with photos different kinds of bridges
Discuss: Explore the innovative root bridges of Meghalaya. How do these bridges form over time? Who builds them?
Act out a situation where someone says something unkind and then finds a way to apologize.
On each “plank, ” write an act of kindness that helps keep friendships strong

Story Discussion Guide

Before reading

Have you ever had a disagreement with a friend? What helped you feel better?
What does it mean to “build a bridge” between people?

During reading

Have you ever had a disagreement with a friend? What helped you feel better?
What does it mean to “build a bridge” between people?

After reading

Why is saying “I’m sorry” important?
What are other ways we can show someone we care?

Applicable Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 4 – Quality Education

Encourages creativity, problem-solving, and applied learning through the STEAM activity of building a bridge.

SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Promotes peaceful conflict resolution, empathy, and rebuilding relationships after misunderstandings.

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