David Walliams visits Auckland School

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Children’s author and comedian David Walliams made a surprise visit to Sylvia Park School in Auckland.

The students in Room 6 had written dozens of letters persuading him to come after learning persuasive writing techniques. Walliams, who is currently on tour in New Zealand, decided to stop by after being touched by their efforts.

Teacher Sarah Gatland said her class was thrilled when they heard the news. During his visit, Walliams shared stories from his career, read from his books like The World’s Worst Children, and even gave away signed copies of his latest novel, Super Sleuth. Walliams thanked the students for their enthusiasm, saying they help inspire his writing.

The visit ended with a heartfelt school-wide haka, and the students were excited to meet “the best author” they’d ever seen.

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SMART Prep | Quick Question 211169

The community garden had been neglected for months, but the neighbours decided to restore it together. They removed weeds, repaired broken fence panels, and planted seedlings in raised beds. One student said the project felt worthwhile because the garden would provide fresh vegetables for the local food bank. Another volunteer noticed that the old strawberry patch looked barren at first, yet after the soil was improved, new plants began to thrive. By the end of the weekend, the garden was not perfect, but it was healthy, productive, and full of energy again.

In the passage, what does the word "barren" mean?

  

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Click on the words in the article. See if you can find them all.

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