Reading Champion: A New Boy: Independent Reading Non-fiction Red 2
Reading champion Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Follow the journey of a new student, Tom, as he navigates his first day at school. This intriguing narrative not only captivates young readers but also supports their early reading development. Designed for independent reading, this book aligns with Red 2 level, making it perfect for reinforcing literacy skills in young learners. Addressing common concerns, the story sensitively explores themes of friendship and belonging, ensuring parents feel confident about the benefits this book offers their child's social and emotional growth. The book is part of the Reading Champion series, developed with the UCL Institute of Education (IOE), which encourages independent reading skills through carefully graded books. 'A New Boy' is a non-fiction text reporting on welcoming a new child into the school, with repeated sentence structures and supportive illustrations, ideal for first independent reading experiences. The series offers a plethora of books that allow children to practice and reinforce their developing reading skills, complemented by engaging artwork and reading activities.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-6
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the new boy felt on his first day at school?
What are some ways the other children could make the new boy feel welcome?
Can you think of a time when you were new to a place or group? How did you feel?
What would you do if you were the new boy to make new friends?
What do you think is the best part of making new friends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Relate personal experiences about being new to a group or environment to help your child connect with the story.
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about making new friends and explore the emotions involved.
Discuss the importance of empathy and kindness when meeting new people or when someone new joins their environment.
Ask your child to think about what actions they can take to welcome new people they meet at school or other activities.
Promote a deeper understanding by asking your child to think of ways the book's situation could relate to their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: The story revolves around a new boy's experience in school, highlighting how he adapts to a new environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn to accept and adapt to new situations such as moving to a new school or meeting new friends.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Inclusion
Explanation: The narrative encourages understanding and empathetic behavior towards the new boy by fellow students.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be inclusive and empathetic towards newcomers in their own classrooms and playgrounds.
Example Lesson: Building Friendship
Explanation: Through shared activities and interactions, the new boy starts forming friendships, illustrating the importance of social connections.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to make new friends and understand the value of building and maintaining relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: The new boy overcomes his initial fear of the unknown, showing bravery in unfamiliar situations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by tackling their own fears, whether it's trying out a new activity or speaking up in class.