Stones
Survey Series
on Goodreads (16)
What’s inside...
Part of the highly successful early intervention programme Reading Recovery for children experiencing reading and writing difficulties, this colourful reader has an extensive range of test materials to support the Concepts About Print task and develop children's reading readiness. The aim is at the end of the sessions, most of the struggling pupils will have caught up with their classmates and will read and write at a level appropriate for their age.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
20 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the stones in the story symbolize?
How did the characters' interactions with the stones affect their relationships?
What emotions did you feel when reading about the stones' journey?
How would you use a stone if you found one like in the book?
Can you think of a time when something small, like a stone, made a big difference in your life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the stones, both in the story and in their own experiences.
Ask your child to draw or find a stone and imagine its backstory, similar to the narrative explored in the book.
Use expressive reading to convey the varying emotions attached to the stones in the story, enhancing the emotional connection.
Relate the story's themes to your child’s everyday life, discussing how seemingly ordinary objects can have significant meanings.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next after the book ends, focusing on the stones’ future journeys.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: In 'Stones,' the characters encounter various obstacles that they must overcome. Their determination to solve problems despite difficulties demonstrates the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to keep trying in the face of challenges, whether it's solving a difficult puzzle or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of working together as the characters must collaborate to accomplish their goals.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in group activities at school or during play, teaching children to cooperate and value each other’s input.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Characters in the book interact with their natural environment, showing care and consideration for the stones and landscapes.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore and respect their own environment, learning about conservation and the importance of preserving natural resources.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Through the narrative, characters are faced with puzzles that require critical thinking and creativity to resolve.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply these problem-solving skills in academic settings or in everyday situations that require innovative thinking.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: The book portrays strong bonds between characters, highlighting how friends can support and help each other through tough times.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of building and maintaining friendships, and how being a supportive friend can have a positive impact on others’ lives.