How to Teach a Slug to Read
What’s inside...
Provides simple, step-by-step instructions for teaching a slug how to read, including using Mother Slug rhymes, helping your slug sound out words, and making vocabulary lists. A little boy explains to Mama Slug how to teach Little Slug to read, listing important reading rules: attach labels to Little Slug’s favorite things, read out loud to him, point out repetitive words, sound out words, create a vocabulary list, and exercise patience. Additionally, it's beneficial to ensure Little Slug can see the book by propping it up and setting him on a rock. David Slonim’s humorous illustrations and Susan Pearson’s clever text demonstrate that reading can be enjoyable.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the main steps were that helped the little boy teach the slug to read?
How do you feel when you learn something new, like reading?
Why do you think the slug wanted to learn to read, and how did it change him?
Can you think of other animals or characters who might want to learn something new? What would they want to learn?
How would you teach someone to read? What steps would you include?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their own learning experiences to the slug’s journey in the story, discussing challenges and achievements.
Ask open-ended questions to help your child think deeply about the value of education and patience in learning new skills.
Connect the story to your child’s life by discussing the importance of helping others and sharing knowledge.
After reading, engage your child in an activity where they pretend to teach reading to their favorite toy or pet, reinforcing the theme of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Patience in Learning
Explanation: The book demonstrates patience through the slug’s slow process of learning to read, emphasizing that learning happens at one's own pace.
Real-World Application: Children learn to understand and accept that everyone, including themselves, learns new skills at different rates, promoting patience and perseverance in daily tasks.
Example Lesson: Importance of Reading
Explanation: The narrative centers around teaching a slug how to read, highlighting the value and joy of reading.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to develop a love for reading, which can enhance their literacy skills and lifelong learning.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Teaching
Explanation: The character uses various creative methods to engage the slug in reading, illustrating the effectiveness of innovative teaching techniques.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively in solving problems and learning new concepts, applicable both in academic settings and everyday life.
Example Lesson: Encouragement and Support
Explanation: The book portrays how encouragement and support from friends can positively impact learning outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of supporting others in their learning journey, fostering a supportive environment at school or home.