Oxford Reading Tree: Stage 1: First Words: Big Books: Teaching Notes
Oxford reading tree. Stage 2, Decode and develop Series
What’s inside...
Stage 1+ First Words Big Books are large format versions of the new edition Stage 1+ First Words storybooks, designed for whole class teaching and group work. The pack includes titles such as Who Is It?, Six in a Bed, The Pancake, Fun at the Beach, A Good Trick, and Floppy Floppy. It also comes with an A4 sized Teaching Notes booklet that provides a Curriculum Coverage Chart with activities for Speaking and Listening, Reading, and Writing at Reception level. Each title has an extended story with the exact words and sentences from the storybook to help children understand the storyline and prepare them for reading. Additionally, each extended story is followed by ideas and suggestions for shared activities in speaking and listening, reading, and writing.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-5
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the characters are feeling in this story?
Can you imagine a different ending to the story? What would it be?
Which word in the book was your favorite and why?
How would you help the characters solve their problem?
What would you like to ask the characters if you could?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts by pausing at different points and asking how they feel about the situation in the story.
Use expressions and gestures to make the reading session interactive and lively, mirroring the emotions of the characters in the story.
After finishing the book, ask your child to draw a scene or a character from the story, discussing what they drew and why.
Relate the book’s themes or situations to your child's real-life experiences to deepen their understanding and connection to the story.
Invite your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the story to engage their critical thinking and imagination.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Building Vocabulary
Explanation: This book introduces basic, frequently used words, helping children recognize and name everyday objects and actions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge in their day-to-day conversations, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively and clearly.
Example Lesson: Developing Reading Confidence
Explanation: With simple sentences and repetition, the book encourages young readers to attempt reading on their own, fostering a sense of achievement.
Real-World Application: This confidence can motivate children to explore more reading materials, boosting their literacy and learning independence.
Example Lesson: Understanding Context
Explanation: The usage of words in varied contexts throughout the book aids children in grasping the meaning and usage of the language.
Real-World Application: This skill helps children in interpreting instructions, stories, and information more accurately in school settings and everyday interactions.