Oxford Reading Tree
Biff, Chip and Kipper storybooks, Magic Key Series
on Goodreads (143)
What’s inside...
This set of lively playscript adaptations, based on the original six Magpies storybooks at Stage 8, is designed for consolidation and reading practice suitable for groups or individuals. The plays teach drama conventions and enhance skills in reading aloud and shared reading. Each script features a cast of 4-6 characters, including narrators, six lines of text per page, and sound effect suggestions. The artwork is re-drawn to parallel scenes from the original storybooks. Additionally, the Oxford Reading Tree scheme has been refreshed with new artwork, covers, and a simplified structure. This includes new teaching materials and support to better meet the needs of today's teachers and students.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-9
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the story and why?
How did the characters feel when they faced a challenge? Can you relate to any of their feelings?
What do you think the main message of the story is? How can we apply it to our lives?
If you could be friends with any character from the book, who would it be and why?
What would you have done differently if you were in the same situation as the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe the characters and setting before diving into the plot. This helps build their comprehension skills.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the story. Discuss their predictions as you read along.
After reading, connect the story to your child's experiences by discussing similar situations they might have faced and how they felt.
Encourage your child to draw a scene from the book. This stimulates creativity and helps them visualize the story and characters.
As you discuss the book’s themes, share your own thoughts and encourage your child to ask questions. This promotes critical thinking and makes the reading experience interactive.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Characters in Oxford Reading Tree often work together to solve problems, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn to collaborate with peers in school projects or playground activities, fostering a sense of community.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The stories encourage characters to explore their environment and ask questions, highlighting the importance of curiosity.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to engage in learning, ask questions in class, and explore new hobbies or interests.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Challenges
Explanation: Characters face various obstacles and learn to overcome them, teaching resilience.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own challenges, whether it's learning a new skill or navigating social situations.
Example Lesson: Respect for Diversity
Explanation: The series includes characters from diverse backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and respect for others.
Real-World Application: This helps children appreciate diversity in their community, enhancing social harmony and understanding.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Reading
Explanation: Through engaging narratives and captivating illustrations, the series fosters a love for reading.
Real-World Application: Cultivating an early love for reading can lead to improved literacy and ongoing personal development.