Oxford Reading Tree: Stage 4: Fireflies: Grandad and Me
#1 in Oxford Reading Tree: Fireflies Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
These Teaching Notes offer comprehensive guidance for each story in Sparrows Level 3, detailing activities for different modes of learning such as group and independent reading, speaking, listening, and writing, all in alignment with NLS Objectives. The notes provide story response prompts, opportunities for personal connections, cross-curricular links, and role play, along with tracking tips for student progress. Oxford Reading Tree Fireflies has 60 titles across 10 stages, each connected to the curriculum and color-coded for ease of use, including teaching notes, guided reading cards, and take-home cards. Additionally, children can enjoy a playful learning experience with a 4-title sticker book series focusing on colors and themes like school, farm animals, house and wild animals, which includes 16 pages of illustrations and 280 re-usable stickers, enhancing observation and manual skills through a fun and educational activity.
Discussion points
How do you think the character felt when spending time with Grandad? Can you relate to any of their feelings?
What are some activities you would enjoy doing with your grandparents or an older friend?
What lessons do you think the character learned from their experiences with Grandad in the story?
Can you think of a special memory you have with someone older? What makes that memory special to you?
How do you think the story would change if it was set somewhere else or in another time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions of the characters, making the story more relatable and engaging for your child.
Encourage your child to share personal anecdotes that the story might remind them of, deepening their connection to the narrative.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or different scenarios within the book to foster creativity and critical thinking.
Discuss the illustrations and ask your child what they notice about the relationship between the characters, enhancing their observational and interpretative skills.
Reinforce the values conveyed in the book, such as the importance of family and making memories, to help instill these values in your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family bonds.
Explanation: Through the shared experiences between the grandchild and Grandad, the book highlights the unique relationship and memories that can be built within a family.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to spend quality time with their grandparents or elderly family members, building strong, loving relationships and learning from their experiences.
Example Lesson: Valuing the past and traditions.
Explanation: The story showcases Grandad sharing stories and traditions from his past, emphasizing the transmission of cultural and family heritage.
Real-World Application: Children can develop an appreciation for their own family histories and traditions by engaging in conversations with older family members, thereby preserving valuable heritage.
Example Lesson: Learning through storytelling.
Explanation: The book demonstrates how Grandad uses stories to teach lessons and share insights, showcasing the educational power of storytelling.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to listen to stories from family members or participate in storytelling, enhancing their listening skills and imagination.
Example Lesson: The power of interpersonal communication.
Explanation: The interactions in the book illustrate effective communication between generations, strengthening understanding and empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can be urged to communicate openly with people of different ages, developing their empathy and emotional intelligence.