The Three Billy Goats and the Broken Bridge
What’s inside...
The Three Billy Goats and the Broken Bridge is a retelling of the classic folktale about three goats who want to cross a bridge to reach the lush grass on the other side. However, they must first outsmart a fearsome troll who guards the bridge. With the help of their wits and bravery, the goats manage to outsmart the troll and reach their destination safely. This charming and beautifully illustrated tale teaches children about teamwork, courage, and problem-solving.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the bridge was important for the Billy Goats?
How did the goats solve their problem when they encountered the broken bridge?
What might have happened if the goats didn't work together?
Can you think of a time when you had to work with others to solve a problem? How did it feel?
What would you do if you were in the place of the smallest goat?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the importance of teamwork and problem-solving by relating the goats’ situation to real-life scenarios they might face.
Facilitate a discussion about emotions by asking how the goats might have felt during different parts of the story and how your child might feel in similar situations.
Emphasize the story’s message of perseverance and creativity in overcoming obstacles by asking your child to think of alternative solutions to the broken bridge.
Use expressive voices for each of the goats when discussing the story to make the conversation lively and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: In 'The Three Billy Goats and the Broken Bridge', the goats encounter a bridge that is unusable. They brainstorm and work together to devise a plan to cross the river safely.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of thinking through problems and collaborating to find solutions, a skill that can be applied in school projects or everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: Courage in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Despite the risks, the youngest goat shows courage by being the first to attempt crossing the broken bridge, encouraging its siblings.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of bravery when confronting obstacles, whether it's trying out for a sports team or standing up for what's right.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness
Explanation: The goats use available materials around them to repair the bridge temporarily, showcasing their capability to utilize their surroundings effectively.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use the resources at their disposal to solve problems, promoting innovative thinking and adaptability.
Example Lesson: Cooperation
Explanation: The three goats must work in harmony to fix the bridge and cross it together, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This can be applied to participating in group activities at school or collaborating with siblings at home to achieve common goals.