At the Zoo: Independent Reading Red 2
Collins Big Cat Sets Series
What’s inside...
Follow a group of children as they enjoy a day at the zoo and learn about the different animals they see. This early reader helps young children develop their reading skills while they explore the animal kingdom. Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practise and reinforce their developing reading skills. Fantastic, original stories are accompanied by engaging artwork and a reading activity. Each book has been carefully graded so that it can be matched to a child's reading ability, encouraging reading for pleasure. Independent Reading Red 2 stories are perfect for children aged 4-5 who are reading at book band 2 (Red) in classroom reading lessons. In this story, Mum and Fin take a picnic to the zoo, but by the time they look for their food, it's all gone!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-5
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite animal at the zoo, and why?
How do you think the animals feel living in the zoo compared to the wild?
If you could ask any animal in the zoo a question, which animal would you choose and what would you ask?
What are some ways we can help take care of animals in the zoo?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the animals and their habitats. Listen actively to their responses.
Use the illustrations in the book to engage your child further, pointing out specific details and asking them what they notice.
Make connections between the zoo animals and any pets you may have at home or animals you see in nature, to make the conversation more relatable.
After discussing the book, consider planning a visit to a local zoo or animal sanctuary to bring the discussion to life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for animals
Explanation: The story of 'At the Zoo' introduces children to various animals, emphasizing their natural habitats and behaviors, nurturing respect toward wildlife.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being gentle and considerate towards animals they encounter, whether pets at home or wildlife during outdoor activities.
Example Lesson: Learning about diversity
Explanation: The book showcases different animals from different parts of the world, teaching children about biodiversity and the importance of ecological systems.
Real-World Application: This understanding helps children appreciate and celebrate differences, fostering a sense of global citizenship from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of conservation
Explanation: Through the narrative about animals in the zoo, the book subtly introduces the concept of animal conservation and the role zoos play in protecting species.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of supporting conservation efforts, such as participating in local clean-up events or learning more about endangered species.