The Monster Under the Bed
Collins big cat. Topaz, band 13 Series
What’s inside...
Build your child's reading confidence at home with books at the right level. Ben's feeling sick, or at least that's what he says. Really, he doesn't want to see his friend Vince. But when he finds a monster under his bed he has an idea - the two swap identities for the day, with hilarious results! This play, by Kevin Dyer, in partnership with Polka Theatre, explores familiar issues and will work wonderfully in performance. Lime/Band 11 books have longer sentence structures and a greater use of literary language. Text type: A playscript. A feelings mountain on pages 30 and 31 charts the rise and fall of emotions that the two main characters feel throughout the play, providing a wealth of speaking and listening opportunities. Curriculum links: Citizenship: Taking part - developing skills of communication and participation; Art and Design: Portraying relationships. This book has been quizzed for Accelerated Reader.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the monster under the bed looks like? Can you describe it?
How do you feel when you hear about the monster in the story? Are there moments you feel scared too?
Why do you think the monster is hiding under the bed? What do you think he's feeling?
What would you do if you were the main character? How would you make friends with the monster?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the monster and any fears they might relate to from the story.
Use expressive reading to make the storytelling session lively and engaging, modulating your voice during suspenseful or emotional moments.
Invite your child to draw their version of the monster under the bed, which can lead to a deeper understanding and discussion of the story’s themes.
After reading, revisit your child's earlier descriptions and feelings about the monster to see if their perceptions have evolved.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Facing Fears
Explanation: The story portrays the main character confronting and ultimately befriending the monster under the bed, showing that facing fears can lead to unexpected positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to tackle their own fears, whether it's fear of the dark, starting a new school, or making new friends, understanding that facing fears is a part of growth.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Friendship
Explanation: As the protagonist gets to know the monster, they develop a friendship, teaching the value of understanding someone different from oneself.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open to making friends who might look or act differently, promoting inclusivity and empathy in social interactions.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: The adventures that the child and the monster embark on highlight the power of imagination in creating exciting and engaging experiences.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their creativity in play and problem solving, expanding their cognitive abilities and enhancing their capacity for innovative thinking.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Misconceptions
Explanation: Initially, the monster is misunderstood and feared, but as the story unfolds, the character learns the true, kind nature of the monster.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to question and explore beyond stereotypes or first impressions, fostering a more thoughtful and considerate approach to new experiences and individuals.