Jake Bakes a Cake
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Jake bakes a cake with his friends to celebrate his grandmother's birthday, discovering the joy of teamwork and the pleasure of baking.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Jake felt when his cake didn't turn out as he expected? Have you felt that way before?
Why is it important to keep trying even when things get tough?
What would you have added to Jake’s cake to make it special?
How did Jake’s friends help him and why is teamwork important?
If you were to bake a cake, what occasion would it be for and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive tones and voices for different characters to make the story come alive for your child.
Pause after reading key moments in the story to ask your child how they think a character is feeling, promoting empathy and understanding.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences, such as a time when they tried to create something or when something didn’t go as planned.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or different scenarios in the story, boosting their creativity and critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Following Instructions
Explanation: Jake learns the importance of following step-by-step instructions as he bakes a cake, highlighting how each component is crucial for the desired outcome.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the value of following directions at school, during sports, or in other activities which require attention to detail.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Experimentation
Explanation: Throughout the baking process, Jake experiments with different ingredients and decorations, showcasing his creative side.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their creativity in everyday tasks and problem-solving, not just in artistic pursuits but also in thinking outside the box.
Example Lesson: Patience and Perseverance
Explanation: Jake faces challenges like a cake that doesn't rise and icing mishaps, but he remains patient and keeps trying until he succeeds.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of patience and perseverance when facing difficulties, underlining that not everything may be perfect on the first try but effort is key.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: After successfully baking the cake, Jake shares it with friends and family, enjoying the pleasure of giving.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in encouraging children to share their belongings or accomplishments with others, fostering a sense of community and generosity.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Jake takes on the responsibility of baking a cake by himself, learning about the responsibilities involved in completing a task independently.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of taking responsibility for their assignments and chores, promoting self-reliance.