Colin the Cart Horse
#1 of 15 in Collins International Primary English Series
What’s inside...
Colin is a cart horse with a smelly problem - he can't stop farting! This book, part of Gavin Puckett's hilarious series about horses, is filled with fun, nonsense, and nasty smells. Alongside this story, Collins International Primary English provides a comprehensive course covering the Cambridge Primary English curriculum framework from 2020. The six-level, multi-component course is designed for international students and teachers, including activities in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, as well as support for Cambridge Global Perspectives™.
Discussion points
What do you think makes Colin different from the other horses in the story?
How do you feel about Colin's journey? What parts made you happy or sad?
What would you have done if you were in Colin’s shoes when he faced challenges?
How did Colin's friends help him throughout the story? Can you think of ways your friends help you?
What did you learn from Colin's adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Set aside a dedicated reading time where both you and your child can focus on the story without distractions.
Ask your child to describe their favorite character in the book, and explore why that character stood out to them.
Encourage your child to draw a scene from the book. This can help them visualize the story and discuss the themes more deeply.
Relate the challenges faced by Colin to real-life scenarios your child might encounter, enhancing their empathy and problem-solving skills.
Praise your child for their insights and thoughts. This reinforces their engagement and confidence in expressing their opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance pays off
Explanation: In 'Colin the Cart Horse', Colin faces numerous challenges but continues to try his best regardless of the obstacles. His resilience is rewarded in the end.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of not giving up, even when tasks or situations become difficult. This lesson is particularly applicable in their academics and personal pursuits.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, Colin learns to work with others in his community to achieve common goals, illustrating how cooperation can lead to great results.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to participate effectively in group activities at school or in sports, understanding that collaboration can lead to success more than individual efforts alone.
Example Lesson: Embracing uniqueness
Explanation: Colin is different from the other horses, but he learns to use his unique qualities to his advantage. This teaches children that being different is not only okay, it can be a strength.
Real-World Application: This can help children feel more confident about their unique traits and abilities, promoting self-acceptance and resilience in social settings.
Example Lesson: Kindness and compassion
Explanation: Colin is consistently kind to others throughout the book, even when he faces tough times himself, which endears him to others and enriches his own life.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of treating others with respect and kindness, fostering a supportive and friendly environment at home and school.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Colin encounters various problems that he needs to solve. By thinking creatively and not giving up, he overcomes these challenges.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to tackle their problems through innovative thinking and perseverance, skills that are essential throughout life.