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Boost reading test confidence with this fun, strategic starter pack!

Includes presentation slides and bookmarks for introducing three Key Stage 2 friendly reading strategies: Fox, Owl and Tortoise.

The Primarily Practical Strategy Squad is here to help! From March to May, these strategies took my class from thirty percent meeting the expected standard, to seventy percent!

This Key Stage 2 Reading Starter Pack introduces three engaging reading test strategies designed to empower all pupils (especially those who struggle with stamina, focus or test anxiety) to show their true reading ability during the end-of-key-stage reading test.

Perfect for Year 6 test prep but equally useful in Year 5, this pack helps pupils reflect on how they tackle questions and choose a strategy that works best for them.

What’s Included:

3 presentations to introduce each Strategy Sidekick:

• Fox - Triage, Scan, Solve (test-smart approach)
• Owl - Read, Reflect, Respond (calm, thoughtful approach)
• Tortoise - Nibble, Question, Respond (slow and steady approach)

Printable bookmarks for each strategy (pupil reference tools)

Who’s Your Strategy Sidekick? slide to support class discussion and pupil choice

How to Use:

Launch with a whole-class discussion using the teaching slides.

Encourage pupils to choose a sidekick that matches their reading style - or switch between them depending on the text!

Use bookmarks during guided or independent practice as subtle scaffolds.

Refer back to strategies during test prep and intervention work.

Why It Works:

Pupils are more likely to succeed when they know how to approach a task.

By framing strategies as characters, children take ownership over how they read and respond.

Especially helpful for SEND learners or pupils who freeze under pressure.

Target Year Group:

Year 6 (core focus)
Year 5 (preparation and introduction)