Hansel and Gretel: Independent Reading Turquoise 7
Reading corner. Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
A captivating retelling of the classic fairy tale 'Hansel and Gretel' where two siblings find themselves lost in a dark, enchanting forest. As they seek a way home, they encounter a witch with less than friendly intentions. The story is a testament to their bravery and quick thinking. 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). Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practice and reinforce their developing reading skills. Fantastic 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
5-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Hansel
Gretel
Father
Witch
Stepmother
Discussion points
What do you think Hansel and Gretel were feeling when they were lost in the woods?
Why do you think the witch wanted to trick Hansel and Gretel?
How did Hansel and Gretel work together to solve their problem?
What would you have done if you were in Hansel and Gretel's situation?
How do you think the story would change if Hansel and Gretel made different choices?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Hansel and Gretel’s shoes, fostering empathy and critical thinking.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at pivotal points, enhancing their analytical skills.
Discuss the moral of the story with your child to deepen their understanding of the themes.
Use expressive reading techniques, such as different voices for each character, to make the reading experience lively and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of caution and awareness in unfamiliar situations
Explanation: Hansel and Gretel find themselves lost in a forest and stumble upon a candy-covered house. Their initial excitement turns into peril when they encounter a witch. This part of the story highlights the need for caution and awareness when in unfamiliar or too-good-to-be-true situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more cautious and aware of their surroundings, particularly in new or unknown environments. This lesson encourages them to think critically about situations and seek guidance when needed.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness and problem-solving
Explanation: Hansel and Gretel use their wits to escape from the witch. Hansel uses pebbles and breadcrumbs to mark their path and later, they work together to outsmart the witch.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their creativity and resourcefulness to solve problems. It teaches them the value of quick thinking and ingenuity in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: Throughout their ordeal, Hansel and Gretel rely on each other for support and collaboration. Their teamwork is crucial in overcoming the challenges they face.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working together and supporting each other. This can be applied in team activities at school, during sports, and in family chores, reinforcing the value of cooperative spirit.
Example Lesson: Consequences of deceit and dishonesty
Explanation: The witch's deceptive nature and her ultimate downfall serve as a cautionary tale about the consequences of deceit and dishonesty.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children that dishonest behaviors can lead to negative outcomes and reinforces the value of honesty and integrity in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Despite being young and frightened, Hansel and Gretel muster the courage to face the witch and eventually find their way back home.
Real-World Application: This highlights the importance of bravery and perseverance. Children learn that facing difficult situations bravely can lead to overcoming obstacles, which is applicable in overcoming personal challenges or standing up for what's right.