Read with Oxford: Stage 2: Phonics: Dick Whittington and Other Tales
Read with Oxford: Stage 2 Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This collection of short stories, including the tale of Dick Whittington, is designed to engage young readers and help them build their phonics skills. The book introduces various characters and adventures, each with its moral and educational lesson. The Read with Oxford Stage 2 story collection contains four traditional tales: Dick Whittington, The Three Billy Goats Gruff, Chicken Licken, and Goldilocks and the Three Bears. This beautifully-illustrated book with clear phonics progression is ideal for children who are developing early reading skills. These well-loved traditional tales from around the world have been rewritten so that children can read them for themselves. They are expertly levelled and in line with children's phonics learning at school. In addition to the stories, the collection offers tips for reading the stories together, extended story texts that parents can read aloud to their child and story maps that children can use to help retell the story in their own words. Featuring much-loved characters, great authors, engaging storylines and fun activities, Read with Oxford offers an exciting range of carefully levelled reading books to build your child's reading confidence. Find practical advice, free eBooks and fun activities to help your child progress on oxfordowl.co.uk. Let's get them flying!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dick Whittington
Dick’S Cat
Discussion points
How do you think Dick Whittington felt when he decided to go to London? Have you ever felt like that?
What would you do if you were in Dick Whittington’s shoes and met a talking cat?
Why do you think the cat was important in the story?
If you could change one part of any tale in the book, what would you change and why?
What lesson do you think each story in the book teaches us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading each tale, ask your child to predict what the story might be about based on the title.
Pause at exciting moments in the story and ask your child what they think will happen next.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite character in the book and ask why that character appeals to them.
After finishing the stories, relate them to real-life situations or decisions your child might face, reinforcing the moral lessons.
Encourage your child to draw or describe their own tale, inspired by the ones in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Determination
Explanation: The protagonist in 'Dick Whittington and Other Tales' exhibits unwavering determination as he overcomes numerous challenges on his journey to becoming the Mayor of London. This story emphasizes the value of setting goals and working hard to achieve them.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by staying committed to their tasks, whether it's completing homework, learning a new skill, or participating in sports. It teaches them the importance of not giving up despite difficulties.
Example Lesson: Honesty
Explanation: The tales often highlight the positive outcomes that result from being truthful. Characters who practice honesty are typically rewarded, reinforcing the message that honesty is the best policy.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be truthful in their daily interactions and understand that honesty builds trust and respect in relationships.
Example Lesson: Kindness and Compassion
Explanation: Characters in the stories who exhibit kindness and compassion often find themselves receiving help in return when they most need it, suggesting that good deeds are reciprocated.
Real-World Application: Children learn that their acts of kindness, such as sharing toys or helping a friend in need, can lead to positive social interactions and friendships.
Example Lesson: Importance of Education
Explanation: The book highlights how knowledge and education can profoundly impact one's future, much like Dick Whittington's ability to read and write, which played a crucial role in his success.
Real-World Application: This lesson can motivate children to value their educational opportunities, attend school regularly, and engage in learning activities.