Mud run
What’s inside...
Mud run is an exhilarating story of a group of animal friends who participate in a thrilling mud race. Through exciting twists and turns, they navigate challenges that help each character grow and learn about their strengths. Red Squirrel Phonics is a new series of decodable readers from Raintree, packed with real stories using words that children can read. The programme teaches children phonics skills in a sequential and systematic way so that they can learn the sounds (phonemes) and the letters that represent them (graphemes) and then practise and apply this knowledge through reading appealing, decodable texts that make sense. This ensures that every beginner reader will experience success in their reading from their very first book! In this Level 2 book Nat and Dan make a mud run. Pam runs too but then she runs inside onto the rug, and Dad is not happy.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-8
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the 'Mud Run' adventure and why?
How did the characters work together to overcome challenges? Can you think of a time when you worked with someone to solve a problem?
What do you think the mud symbolizes in the story? How do you feel about getting messy?
If you were to participate in a mud run, what would you do to prepare?
How do you think the characters felt at the end of the mud run? Have you ever felt similar after finishing something challenging?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story to deepen their understanding and connection. Use the questions to guide a reflective conversation, fostering critical thinking. Relate the story's themes to real-life situations your child may encounter to make the book more relatable and meaningful. Celebrate the fun and adventurous spirit of the 'Mud Run,' maybe even planning a playful outdoor activity that mirrors the book's theme.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Mud Run,' characters must work together to complete a challenging obstacle course, showcasing the importance of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities or team sports, learning to cooperate with others to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters face various setbacks during the mud run but continue to push forward, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to not give up when facing difficulties in tasks like homework or learning new skills, but instead persevere.
Example Lesson: Healthy Competition
Explanation: The book portrays competition in a positive light, emphasizing personal improvement over winning, which teaches fair play.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to focus on self-improvement in competitive situations, such as sports or academic contests, rather than just the outcome.
Example Lesson: Importance of Physical Activity
Explanation: The story revolves around a physically demanding event, highlighting the fun and benefits of staying active.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to engage in regular physical activities, promoting a healthy lifestyle from an early age.
Example Lesson: Friendship and Support
Explanation: Characters encourage and support each other during the race, underscoring the value of friendship.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be supportive friends in their own lives, helping peers through challenges and celebrating their successes.