Reading Champion: Gerda's Journey: Independent Reading Gold 9
Reading corner. Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Follow the enthralling adventures of Gerda as she embarks on a perilous quest to rescue her friend from the clutches of an evil enchantress. Through a series of challenges and encounters with magical beings, Gerda discovers the power of perseverance, friendship, and courage.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Gerda learned during her journey?
How did Gerda's feelings change throughout the story?
What would you have done if you were in Gerda's place?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone like Gerda did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Gerda’s shoes, fostering empathy and understanding. Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of perseverance and helping others. Highlight moments in the story where Gerda makes important decisions, prompting your child to think about how choices can affect outcomes. Ask about feelings and reactions to different parts of the story to gauge emotional comprehension.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Gerda's persistent efforts in her journey, despite obstacles, illustrate the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persist through challenges in schoolwork or personal tasks, understanding that effort leads to achievement.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout her journey, Gerda encounters various challenges and uses critical thinking to solve them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach obstacles creatively in their daily interactions and learning activities.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Gerda's interactions with characters she meets on her journey teach her to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to practice empathy with peers and family, fostering stronger relationships and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Gerda faces her fears during her adventurous journey, showing bravery in uncertain situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to take on new challenges without fear, whether trying out for a team or making a new friend.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: The support and help Gerda receives from friends she makes along the way highlight the importance of building and maintaining friendships.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of nurturing friendships and being supportive friends in their own lives.