Reading Champion: The Ugly Duckling: Independent Reading Orange 6
Reading champion Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
A reimagining of the classic tale, this book follows the journey of a young duckling who feels out of place amongst his peers. Through various challenges and encounters, he ultimately discovers his true identity and transforms into a beautiful swan, learning important life lessons along the way.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ugly Duckling
Discussion points
How do you think the duckling felt when he was treated differently? Can you relate to any of his feelings?
What does this story teach us about how we should treat others who look different from us?
Why do you think the other animals didn't recognize the duckling's beauty at first?
How did the duckling change throughout the story, and what caused those changes?
What do you think is the most important message of 'The Ugly Duckling'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressions and voice modulation to depict different characters, making the storytelling session more lively and engaging.
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in the duckling’s situation, relating the story to their own experiences.
Highlight the transformation of the duckling not just in appearance but also in confidence and self-acceptance, emphasizing the value of inner growth.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This helps in reflecting on the story and understanding it deeply.
Discuss the reactions of other characters to the duckling’s changes and ask your child what qualities they value in their friends.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance and personal growth
Explanation: The story of 'The Ugly Duckling' illustrates the journey of a duckling who feels out of place and unaccepted, only to grow into a beautiful swan, symbolizing personal transformation and self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of embracing their unique qualities and understand that growth and change are part of life, helping them to build self-esteem and resilience in facing challenges.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As the duckling is ridiculed and excluded by others, the story highlights the effects of judgement and teaches the value of empathy towards those who are different.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to be more considerate and understanding towards their peers who may not look or act the same, fostering a more inclusive environment at school and in social settings.
Example Lesson: Patience and perseverance
Explanation: The ugly duckling's journey is filled with periods of waiting and enduring hardships, demonstrating that patience and perseverance eventually lead to positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: This imparts the value of staying patient and persistent when facing difficulties, encouraging children to keep trying and to wait for their efforts to fruitfully manifest.
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: Throughout the duckling’s ordeals, moments of kindness from others provide relief and support, teaching the impact of compassionate actions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to act kindly and supportively, understanding that their actions can significantly affect the well-being of others around them.