Reading Champion: Dragon Painter
Reading champion Series
What’s inside...
In this enchanting tale, a young dragon with a unique talent for painting embarks on an adventure to discover the importance of friendship and creativity. Along the way, he meets various mythical creatures and faces numerous challenges that help him grow and embrace his gifts. This story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE). This traditional tale tells the story behind the Chinese proverb 'Draw the dragons, dot the eyes' and the eye-dotting ceremony. A painter refuses to draw in the eyes of the dragons, but the Emperor will not listen. Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practise and reinforce their developing reading skills. Fantastic, original stories are accompanied by engaging artwork and a reading activity. Each book has been carefully graded so that it can be matched to a child's reading ability, encouraging reading for pleasure.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What feelings do you think the Dragon Painter had while creating his art?
How did the villagers react to the Dragon Painter's artworks? Why do you think they felt that way?
If you were in the story, what would you paint if you were the Dragon Painter?
Can you think of a time when you created something and it affected others around you?
What do you think is the most important message of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story without interrupting them, showing that their viewpoints are valued.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to delve deeper into their understanding and interpretation of the book.
Relate the story to your child's personal experiences, such as a time they engaged in painting or another form of art.
Discuss the emotions and themes in the book and connect them to real-life scenarios, enhancing empathy and understanding.
Praise your child’s responses and insights, reinforcing their confidence in expressing their thoughts and opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: In 'Reading Champion: Dragon Painter', the protagonist explores his imagination through painting, showing that creativity is a valuable form of self-expression.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in artistic activities like drawing or painting, helping them express their emotions and ideas.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Challenges
Explanation: The main character faces obstacles while trying to complete his masterpiece, teaching resilience and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Kids learn that difficulties can be approached with determination and creative thinking, applicable in tasks like school projects or interpersonal conflicts.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Art
Explanation: Through the story, the beauty and importance of art are highlighted, fostering a respect and appreciation for different forms of artistic expression.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to visit art galleries or participate in art classes, enhancing their educational and cultural development.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The dragon painter works with others in the story to achieve his goals, underscoring the value of cooperative effort.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to collaborate on group projects or team sports, learning the importance of working together to achieve a common goal.