Read with Oxford: Stage 3: Julia Donaldson's Songbirds: Usman's Books and Other Stories
Julia Donaldson’S Songbirds Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
This collection of five stories illustrated by Julia Donaldson emphasizes phonics skills and reading confidence. Usman discovers the magic of books, while other tales explore childhood adventures and friendships. The collection, part of the Songbirds programme, offers tips on letter patterns and tricky words, aiming to foster a love for reading in children. It includes free eBooks, practical advice, and fun activities designed to help children progress in their reading journey.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
136 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Usman felt when he discovered the books? How would you feel?
Which story in the book was your favorite and why?
How do the different characters in the stories help each other? Can you think of a time you helped someone or someone helped you?
What did you learn from Usman's adventures? Is there something new you would like to try?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate the stories to your child’s experiences to make it more relatable. For example, compare Usman's actions in the story to a situation your child might have faced.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This helps them connect visually and emotionally with the story.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next in the stories or how different decisions could lead to different outcomes. This enhances critical thinking.
After reading, ask your child if there was anything they didn’t understand or were curious about in the story, and discuss these elements together. This promotes inquisitiveness and comprehension.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of sharing
Explanation: In 'Usman's Books', Usman learns the joy of sharing his books with his friends.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their own belongings, such as toys or books, with their peers to foster cooperation and friendships.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: The stories encourage exploration and learning new things through the characters' adventures.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to ask questions and seek out learning opportunities in their daily activities, whether at school or during play.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Characters in the stories often encounter problems but find creative ways to overcome them.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach their own obstacles with determination and creativity, building resilience for real-life challenges.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters demonstrate how working together and helping each other strengthens friendships.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being a good friend in their interactions with peers at school and in their community.
Example Lesson: Encouragement of imagination
Explanation: The vibrant and engaging stories stimulate the imagination through diverse scenarios and characters.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to use their imagination in play and storytelling, enhancing their cognitive and creative skills.