The Three Billy Goats: (English Readers Starter Level)
Usborne better English Series
What’s inside...
In 'The Three Billy Goats: English Readers Starter Level' by Mairi Mackinnon, young readers are introduced to a delightful retelling of the classic Norwegian folktale. The story features the three brother goats, Benny, Bert, and Boris, on their quest for fresh grass across the bridge, where they must outsmart a hungry troll. This beginner level book is designed to help early readers improve their literacy skills through a simple and engaging narrative, accompanied by fun activities and online audio in both British and American English. An excellent addition to any child’s library, this book fosters development and a love for reading while teaching values of cleverness and bravery.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Big Billy Goat
Little Billy Goat
Middle Billy Goat
Troll
Discussion points
Why do you think the smallest billy goat decided to cross the bridge first?
What are some ways the billy goats could have solved their problem without confronting the troll?
How do you think the troll felt when he saw each billy goat crossing the bridge?
Can you think of a time when you overcame a scary or challenging situation like the billy goats?
What would you do if you were the biggest billy goat?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in each character’s shoes, fostering empathy and deeper understanding of the story.
Use expressive voices for each character to make the reading experience more dynamic and engaging.
Discuss the moral of the story and ask your child what lesson they think the billy goats learned.
After reading, consider role-playing a favorite scene together to bring the story to life and enhance comprehension.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book, giving them a creative outlet to express their interpretation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The Three Billy Goats Gruff use clever thinking to outsmart the troll and safely cross the bridge.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think creatively to solve problems they face, whether in schoolwork or in social situations.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Despite the threat posed by the troll, the goats bravely confront and overcome their obstacle.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of facing fears and challenges head-on, helping to build their confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The goats work together to strategize and defeat the troll, illustrating the power of cooperation and collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children learn that working together with others can help them achieve goals that may seem impossible to accomplish alone.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: The goats assess their situation, make a plan, and execute it to avoid danger.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to analyse situations and consider multiple solutions, enhancing their decision-making skills.