Red Squirrel Phonics Series
Nat: Red Squirrel Phonics Level 1
2021 by
What’s inside...
Join Nat, the adventurous red squirrel, as he embarks on a quest to find the mystical Acorn of Wisdom. Throughout his journey, Nat learns valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and the importance of perseverance. Red Squirrel Phonics is a new series of decodable readers from Raintree, packed with real stories using words that children can read. The program 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! This Level 1 book is a story about Nat, who is having a glass of milk and a cookie when Sid and Pam come along.
Why read this book
- Engaging phonics approach enhances early reading skills.
- Fun, relatable characters captivate young readers.
- Supports cognitive development through interactive storytelling.
- Ideal for shared reading, strengthening child-parent bonds.
The Big Picture
- Promotes early reading through phonics recognition.
- Enhances problem-solving and cognitive skills.
- Teaches resilience through character challenges.
- Encourages discussions on perseverance and adaptability.
Diversity & Representation
- Features diverse characters promoting inclusivity.
- Explores different environments, enhancing cultural awareness.
- Supports language development in varied contexts.
Age
6-8
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
developing
Character Compass
Discussion points
What do you think Nat the Squirrel likes most about his adventures?
How do you feel when you try something new, like Nat?
What would you do if you were in Nat's place in the story?
Why is it important for Nat to have friends who help him?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone like Nat’s friends helped him?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child about their favorite part of the story to get them excited about the discussion. Show interest in their responses and encourage them to elaborate by asking follow-up questions. Relate the story’s themes to your child’s personal experiences to make the conversation more meaningful. Use expressions and gestures to make the discussion lively and engaging. Lastly, praise your child for their thoughts and insights to boost their confidence and interest in reading.
What parents love
Perfect starter book for early readers.
Fun and educational, keeps my child engaged!
Lovable characters and easy-to-follow plot.
Great for learning phonics with delightful pictures.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Learning Phonics
Explanation: This book focuses on introducing young readers to phonics, helping them recognize and pronounce letters and sounds in a structured way.
Real-World Application: Understanding phonics is essential for reading and writing. This skill aids children in decoding words and sentences in their day-to-day reading activities, enhancing their reading fluency and comprehension.
Example Lesson: Developing Listening Skills
Explanation: Through the repetitive and rhythmic nature of the text, children are encouraged to listen carefully to the sounds and patterns of letters.
Real-World Application: Listening skills are vital in all areas of learning; they help children follow instructions in school and interact effectively with others.
Example Lesson: Building Confidence in Reading
Explanation: The book uses simple, repetitive text that allows young readers to master reading at their own pace, fostering a sense of achievement.
Real-World Application: Feeling confident in early reading experiences can motivate children to approach more complex texts, thus fostering a lifelong interest and pleasure in reading.
Example Lesson: Enhancing Vocabulary
Explanation: Red Squirrel Phonics Level 1 introduces basic but essential vocabulary, reinforcing word recognition.
Real-World Application: Expanding vocabulary at a young age will provide children with the language skills needed to express themselves clearly and understand others both in school and in everyday conversations.