Dog Diary (1.0 Very First Reading)
Usborne Very First Reading Series
on Goodreads (111)
What’s inside...
A delightful story to inspire very beginner readers, based on the principles of synthetic phonics and supports the 'Letters and Sounds' programme used in thousands of UK primary schools. The fourth title in the 'Usborne Very First Reading' series, designed for younger children to introduce them to reading together with their parents. Both adult and child take turns to read, with the text clearly marked for each reader. The series progresses with adults reading less and the child reading more. Fun puzzles test understanding, provide opportunities for discussion, and further reading practice, along with guidance notes for parents and beautiful illustrations to motivate beginner readers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the dog feels when it goes on its adventures?
What was your favorite part of the dog's day and why?
If you could ask the dog one question, what would it be?
How do you think the dog's day is different from yours?
Can you imagine what tomorrow’s diary entry would look like?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the storytelling lively and engaging.
Ask your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene. It's a great way for them to express their understanding and feelings about the story.
Relate the dog’s adventures to your child’s daily activities to enhance connection with the book’s content.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next in the dog’s diary, building anticipation and involvement in the storytelling.
After reading, ask your child to recap the story in their own words, reinforcing comprehension and narrative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story delicately showcases how the dog perceives and reacts to the emotions of others around it, teaching children the importance of understanding others' feelings.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize emotions in others, fostering more considerate interactions with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Through the daily routines and tasks the dog performs, children observe the values of responsibility and routine.
Real-World Application: This can translate to children taking care of their own belongings, or helping out with chores at home.
Example Lesson: The joy of reading
Explanation: This book, designed for very first readers, emphasizes the excitement and fun that comes with reading. The dog in the story often finds happiness in small moments which can be related to reading.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to find pleasure in reading and learning which can become a lifelong habit.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The dog encounters various challenges that it needs to navigate, showcasing basic problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to think critically and come up with solutions when facing obstacles, whether in play or homework.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: The interactions between the dog and other characters highlight the importance of friendship and collaboration.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of working together and supporting each other in group activities or school projects.