A big bug: (Red Squirrel Phonics Level 2)
Red Squirrel Phonics Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Red Squirrel Phonics is a series of decodable readers designed to teach children phonics skills in a systematic way. The series uses real stories with words that children can read, allowing them to practice and apply their knowledge through engaging, decodable texts. Level 2 of the series follows the adventure of a big, friendly bug exploring the forest, facing challenges, and making new friends, while also hopping around a kitchen and eventually being propelled out the window by a fan.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the big bug was important in the story?
What would you do if you met a big bug like in the book?
How did the characters in the book feel about the big bug?
What can we learn from how the characters interacted with the big bug?
If you could write another adventure for the big bug, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves within the story, asking how they would react in similar situations.
Discuss the emotions of the characters and relate them to real-life scenarios your child might encounter.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book to deepen their connection with the story.
Use the story as a starting point to discuss broader topics like the importance of understanding and respecting nature.
Praise your child’s responses to foster a positive reading environment and encourage deeper thinking about the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The protagonist, a red squirrel, encounters various obstacles and must figure out solutions to move past them.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving techniques in their daily interactions and challenges, learning to think critically and devise solutions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the story, the red squirrel works together with other characters to overcome challenges, demonstrating the importance of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the value of working together with peers or family members to achieve common goals, enhancing their social skills and ability to cooperate.
Example Lesson: Importance of Literacy
Explanation: The book uses phonics-based text which helps children in decoding and pronunciation, illustrating the practical use of reading skills.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to practice reading at home, strengthening their literacy skills and building a foundation for academic success.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: The red squirrel continuously tries and does not give up despite setbacks, teaching persistence.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to keep trying in the face of difficulties, whether in learning new skills or dealing with everyday problems.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The curious nature of the red squirrel leads it to explore its surroundings extensively, uncovering new paths and solutions.
Real-World Application: Fosters a sense of exploration and curiosity in children, encouraging them to learn more about the world around them and to seek out new experiences.