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The perfect place for all your EYFS, KS1 and KS2 resources, Explore Education aims to provide you with amazing, outstanding lessons that help you to shine. Each lesson often has detailed planning, PowerPoints and differentiated resources. So whether you are looking for a maths lesson to get you through your next interview, an English lesson that will help you impress OFSTED or a history, science, RE, PSHE or PE unit to wow your class, this is the shop for you!

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The perfect place for all your EYFS, KS1 and KS2 resources, Explore Education aims to provide you with amazing, outstanding lessons that help you to shine. Each lesson often has detailed planning, PowerPoints and differentiated resources. So whether you are looking for a maths lesson to get you through your next interview, an English lesson that will help you impress OFSTED or a history, science, RE, PSHE or PE unit to wow your class, this is the shop for you!
Kensuke’s Kingdom Diary Writing Unit – 4 Outstanding English Lessons for KS2
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Kensuke’s Kingdom Diary Writing Unit – 4 Outstanding English Lessons for KS2

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Ideal for KS2 diary writing | Based on the first 3 chapters of Kensuke’s Kingdom | Fully resourced and adaptable for Y4–Y6 Bring Michael Morpurgo’s Kensuke’s Kingdom to life with this engaging four-lesson writing unit, designed to develop diary writing skills through powerful sentence structures and rich language features. Perfect for developing cohesive narrative writing and used successfully for lesson observations in UKS2. What’s included: ✔ 4 detailed lesson plans (starter, main input, activity, plenary) ✔ PowerPoints with prompts and modelled examples ✔ Word mats for vocabulary and grammar support ✔ Scaffolded planning pages ✔ Grammar activities to build sentence fluency ✔ Diary writing checklist and editing support Lesson Overview: Lesson 1 – Writing with Adverbials Focus: summarising events, using adverbial openers, exploring character thoughts and feelings. Lesson 2 – Using Cohesive Devices in a Recount Focus: recount structure, personal reflection, descriptive language including similes and metaphors. Lesson 3 – Writing Dialogue Between Characters Focus: speech punctuation, layout of dialogue, developing voice and perspective. Lesson 4 (or 4 & 5) – Using Clause Structures to Create Flow Focus: combining sentence types, dialogue for action, atmosphere, vocabulary for impact, and grammatical precision. Grammar and Writing Skills Covered: Adverbials, conjunctions, prepositional phrases Subordinate and relative clauses Dialogue layout and speech punctuation Similes, metaphors, and vivid description Passive and modal verbs Sentence variety and cohesion Why teachers love this resource: ✔ Adaptable across KS2 ✔ Rated Outstanding by SLT during observations ✔ Strong links to grammar and reading objectives ✔ Promotes creativity, empathy, and deep understanding of the text Perfect for: Upper KS2 writing lessons English units based on novels Diary or recount writing Interview and observation lessons Tags: UKS2, KS2, Y5, Y6, Y4, diary writing, Kensuke’s Kingdom, Michael Morpurgo, novel unit, observation lesson, literacy, English, narrative, cohesion, grammar, outstanding teaching
The Sheep Pig - Differentiated Reading Comprehensions (for Each Chapter)
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The Sheep Pig - Differentiated Reading Comprehensions (for Each Chapter)

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This resource offers a set of differentiated reading comprehension worksheets for each chapter of The Sheep-Pig by Dick King-Smith, designed to support students in developing their reading skills. Suitable for KS1 and KS2 pupils, the pack provides questions at three levels of difficulty (1, 2, and 3), allowing for progression and differentiation based on student ability. What’s included: ✔ Reading comprehension worksheets for each chapter ✔ Answer sheets for each chapter ✔ Three levels of challenge: Level 1 (beginner), Level 2 (intermediate), Level 3 (advanced) ✔ Vocabulary study activities for key terms and phrases from the text Lesson overview / structure: ★ Level 1 (Challenge 1) – Basic comprehension questions to introduce students to key themes, characters, and events in the book. ★ Level 2 (Challenge 2) – Intermediate questions that encourage deeper understanding, focusing on character motivations and story development. ★ Level 3 (Challenge 3) – Advanced comprehension tasks that challenge students to analyse the text more critically, exploring themes, character relationships, and key events. ★ Vocabulary Studies – Activities integrated with the comprehension questions to explore important vocabulary from the text. Why it’s useful: ✔ Differentiated for a range of abilities, ensuring all students can engage with the text at their own level ✔ Ideal for supporting remote learning or in-person lessons ✔ Encourages vocabulary development alongside reading comprehension skills ✔ Suitable for independent reading practice or guided reading sessions ✔ Provides teachers with a structured and easy-to-use resource for tracking progress Suggested use cases: Perfect for KS1 and KS2 teachers, particularly for guided reading sessions, independent reading tasks, or remote learning. Ideal for building comprehension, vocabulary, and understanding of The Sheep-Pig. Search tags: guided reading | KS1 reading comprehension | KS2 reading comprehension | The Sheep Pig | chapter comprehension | reading skills | VIPERS | vocabulary development | inference prediction | reciprocal reading | comprehension questions
Story Starters PowerPoint – Fiction Writing Prompts for KS1 & KS2 (Y1–Y6)
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Story Starters PowerPoint – Fiction Writing Prompts for KS1 & KS2 (Y1–Y6)

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This 11-page PowerPoint is packed with engaging writing prompts to support creative story writing across KS1 and KS2. With a mix of sentence starters, character prompts, and descriptive scenes, it’s perfect for time fillers, supply cover, or sparking ideas during English lessons. No preparation needed – simply open the PowerPoint and get started. What’s Included: A range of story starters to suit different styles – including action scenes, dialogue, description, and one-sentence openers Character development prompts to help children create believable, well-rounded characters Setting prompts to support vivid and immersive story settings Opportunities to practise building tension and using exciting action vocabulary Descriptive tasks that encourage children to use sensory language and varied sentence structures Ideal for English, morning work, early finishers, or writing centres Why This Resource Works Well: Encourages a wide variety of writing techniques Builds confidence and creativity in fiction writing Differentiated and suitable for a range of abilities Easy to use for teachers and cover staff – no prep needed PowerPoint Contents: ✓ Characterisation through direct speech (x2) ✓ Characterisation through description (x2) ✓ 10 character picture prompts ✓ Action scenes (x2) ✓ Description tasks (x2) ✓ One-sentence story starters (x6) Search terms: english writing fiction ks1 ks2 lks2 uks2 y1 y2 y3 y4 y5 y6 story starters narrative prompts supply plenary assessment creative writing activities
SEN Key Word Table Mat
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SEN Key Word Table Mat

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This resource provides a practical word bank designed for SEN pupils, particularly those with dyslexia or additional learning needs. Ideal for use in KS1, KS2, EYFS, LKS2, and UKS2, the word mat is laminated for repeated use and includes space for daily words, making it easily adaptable to different topics or English vocabulary. What’s included: ✔ Laminated key word table mat ✔ Customisable section for daily words ✔ Designed for repeated use Lesson overview / structure: ★ Key Word Bank – A section featuring essential words that can be referenced during lessons. ★ Daily Word Section – A space where teachers can write in topic-specific or vocabulary-related words that need to be focused on each day. Why it’s useful: ✔ Ideal for SEN students, including those with dyslexia ✔ Provides a consistent reference tool throughout the school day ✔ Easily adapted to suit different subjects or lessons ✔ Supports vocabulary building and word recognition Suggested use cases: Perfect for use in KS1, KS2, EYFS, LKS2, and UKS2 settings. Can be used as a support tool in daily lessons or as part of individual learning plans for SEN students. Search tags: ks1 | ks2 | eyfs | lks2 | uks2 | send | dyslexia | vocabulary support | key word mat | special education | daily words
PHONICS Assessment Record Booklet
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PHONICS Assessment Record Booklet

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This phonics assessment booklet is designed for use in EYFS, Reception, Year 1, and KS1 to track pupil progress in phonics from Phase 2 to Phase 6. Created by experienced KS1 specialists, it provides an easy and efficient way for teachers and teaching assistants (TAs) to assess and record pupils’ phonics skills. What’s included: ✔ Phonics assessment booklet covering Phase 2 to Phase 6 ✔ Clear sections for teachers to check off each sound and word as children read them ✔ Simple format for easy communication between staff ✔ Useful for tracking pupil progress over time Lesson overview / structure: ★ Phonics Assessment – Teachers point at each sound and word, and children read them aloud. If correct, the sound or word is checked off. ★ Tracking Progress – The booklet helps teachers monitor each pupil’s development and identify areas for improvement. Why it’s useful: ✔ Ideal for EYFS, Reception, Year 1, and KS1 pupils ✔ Supports clear communication of pupil progress between staff ✔ Easy to use for interventions or as part of early morning work ✔ Helps teachers quickly show progression during pupil progress meetings Suggested use cases: Perfect for assessing phonics skills throughout the year, particularly in EYFS, Reception, Year 1, and KS1. This resource can also be used by TAs for targeted interventions and support. Search tags: eyfs | reception | fs1 | fs2 | year 1 | ks1 | phonics assessment | Jolly Phonics | Read Write Inc | Phase 2 | Phase 6 | Letters and Sounds
Reading Parents Evening PowerPoint – Informative Slides for Parent Engagement
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Reading Parents Evening PowerPoint – Informative Slides for Parent Engagement

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This editable PowerPoint presentation helps you engage parents during a parents’ evening, offering them practical insights into supporting their child’s reading development. With 18 slides, it’s designed for primary school use and covers key areas such as phonics, word strategies, book exchanges, and reading mornings. What’s included: ✔ 18 editable PowerPoint slides ✔ Information on phonics to support reading ✔ Practical strategies for helping children with difficult words ✔ Explanation of book exchange procedures ✔ Details on the importance of reading mornings ✔ Customisable content for your school’s needs Lesson overview / structure: ★ Phonics Insight – Equip parents with an understanding of phonics to support their child’s reading journey. ★ Word Strategies – Provide practical tips for tackling challenging words and supporting children at home. ★ Book Exchange – Explain the school’s book swapping system and its benefits. ★ Reading Mornings – Highlight how reading mornings can boost literacy development. ★ Editable Content – Adapt the presentation to suit your school’s specific reading initiatives and needs. Why it’s useful: ✔ Clear, easy-to-understand presentation for parents ✔ Editable to fit your school’s programmes ✔ Covers key aspects of reading support at home ✔ Helps foster a positive relationship between home and school Suggested use cases: Ideal for use during parents’ evenings, new starter orientations, or reading boost initiatives. Can be used in primary schools, especially for parents supporting children with reading at home. Search tags: Reading parents evening | phonics presentation | primary school reading | book exchange | reading mornings | parents evening PowerPoint | reading support
BONFIRE NIGHT Writing Unit – 5 Outstanding Lessons (KS1 | Year 1)
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BONFIRE NIGHT Writing Unit – 5 Outstanding Lessons (KS1 | Year 1)

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Fully resourced poetry unit exploring senses, fireworks, and onomatopoeia | Ideal for October and November lessons This fully planned writing unit is ideal for Year 1 pupils in the run-up to Bonfire Night. Across five engaging lessons, children will explore senses, onomatopoeia, and descriptive language to build up to a final senses poem. Starting with a cold write and culminating in a polished piece of poetry, this unit is packed with opportunities for performance, expression, and creative language development. What’s included: ✔ 5 easy-to-follow PowerPoints ✔ 5 detailed lesson plans with clear learning objectives ✔ Senses worksheet for vocabulary development ✔ High-ability poetry writing frame to support differentiation Lesson sequence: Write a Poem (Cold Write) – Children write an initial Bonfire Night poem using sensory phrases and sentence-level skills Perform a Poem – Learn lines, use expression, and explore onomatopoeia through poetry performance Group Performance – Build fluency and confidence by performing poems with expression, intonation, and clear voices Plan a Senses Poem – Use expanded noun phrases and sensory vocabulary to plan a descriptive Bonfire Night poem Write a Final Poem – Children write their final piece, applying their learning from the week to create a ‘banger’ of a poem Why this unit stands out: ✔ Ideal for exploring poetry, performance, and seasonal themes ✔ Created by an experienced English subject lead ✔ Tried and tested in real Year 1 classrooms ✔ Fully resourced for easy, low-prep teaching Perfect for: October or November literacy sessions KS1 poetry and performance lessons Creative writing and sensory language development Whole-class, group, or guided writing sessions Search terms: KS1 poetry | Year 1 Bonfire Night writing | senses poem | fireworks writing unit | onomatopoeia Year 1 | Bonfire Night literacy | outstanding writing lesson | KS1 English planning | firework safety poem | Key Stage 1 poem writing
Year 1 Assessment Checklists for Writing, Maths, Reading and Science
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Year 1 Assessment Checklists for Writing, Maths, Reading and Science

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These assessment checklists are designed for Year 1 pupils to track their progress in writing, maths, reading, and science. They align with the KS1 frameworks and provide an easy-to-use system to monitor students’ attainment in key areas. What’s Included: ✔ Assessment checklists for writing, maths, reading, and science ✔ One page per child for personalised tracking ✔ Clear and simple tick-box system to assess emerging, secure, and exceeding levels ✔ Summary section to track overall progress ✔ Printable format for ease of use in the classroom or at home Lesson Overview / Structure: ★ Individual Progress Tracking – Each child has their own page for tracking achievements. ★ Clear Assessment Criteria – Skills and objectives for each subject are broken down into three levels: emerging, secure, and exceeding. ★ Quick Review – The tick-box system enables teachers to assess pupils quickly and effectively. Why it’s Useful: ✔ Helps track Year 1 pupils’ progress in core subjects ✔ Simplifies assessment with an easy-to-understand format ✔ Ideal for use in planning, feedback, and reporting ✔ Identifies areas for improvement and celebrates progress Suggested Use Cases: Perfect for Year 1 teachers and teaching assistants to assess progress in writing, maths, reading, and science. Ideal for tracking attainment towards expected standards and beyond, and can also be used by parents for home learning support. Search Tags: Year 1 assessment checklists | KS1 writing assessment | Year 1 maths assessment | Year 1 reading progress | Year 1 science assessment | KS1 assessment tools
Splendid Skies Homework Pack – 51 Creative Tasks
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Splendid Skies Homework Pack – 51 Creative Tasks

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This homework pack features 51 engaging tasks for pupils aged 5-7, based on the Splendid Skies theme. It spans various subjects, including geography, science, art, maths, writing, and reading. Pupils can choose tasks that interest them and work at their own pace, encouraging creativity and independent learning. What’s Included: ✔ 51 homework tasks related to the Splendid Skies theme ✔ Homework choice board with tasks across different subjects ✔ Parent letter explaining the homework choice board ✔ Record sheet for students to track completed tasks ✔ Book recommendations suitable for children aged 5-7 Lesson Overview / Structure: ★ Choice Board – Pupils choose from 51 tasks, allowing for differentiation and independent learning. ★ Creative Tasks – Includes activities such as writing a diary entry about weather impacts, creating weather-themed songs, and designing bar graphs. ★ Tracking Progress – Record sheet helps pupils monitor their progress and stay organised. ★ Parent Involvement – Parent letter explains the task structure and provides guidance. Why it’s Useful: ✔ Encourages creativity and independent learning ✔ Provides a wide range of tasks across multiple subjects ✔ Allows for differentiation based on pupils’ interests ✔ Ideal for making homework engaging and meaningful Suggested Use Cases: Perfect for Year 1 or Year 2 pupils, especially when studying weather, seasons, or the environment. This resource is ideal for use as a fun, cross-curricular homework project or differentiated task option. Search Tags: Splendid Skies homework | Year 1 homework tasks | Year 2 creative homework | weather-themed homework | cross-curricular homework tasks | KS1 homework activities
Outstanding Diary Entry Interview Lesson – KS2 Writing | Mount Everest Theme
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Outstanding Diary Entry Interview Lesson – KS2 Writing | Mount Everest Theme

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Fully resourced English lesson with a geography link – ideal for Year 4 or LKS2 This flexible and engaging interview or observation lesson guides pupils through writing a diary entry from the perspective of someone who has climbed Mount Everest. Rated Outstanding by an OFSTED inspector, the lesson combines strong writing outcomes with cross-curricular links to geography. Designed for 20 minutes to 1 hour, it’s suitable for interviews, formal observations, or high-quality classroom teaching. What’s included: ✔ Detailed lesson plan with built-in differentiation ✔ PowerPoint presentation to guide the lesson and introduce Everest ✔ Starter activity to prompt imaginative thinking and build vocabulary ✔ Differentiated tasks for SEN, LA, MA and HA pupils ✔ Reflection prompt to support editing and improvement Bonus freebie: A set of fact sheets and visuals about world mountain ranges and rivers, which you could reference during your interview to show forward-thinking and curriculum planning (e.g. what the next lesson in the sequence could look like). Why it works well: ✔ Clear links to geography topics such as Mountains and Extreme Earth ✔ Encourages high-quality writing through a vivid, real-world context ✔ Structured support for SEN and lower-attaining pupils ✔ Flexibility for timed interviews or observation slots ✔ Supports grammar objectives and descriptive writing skills Perfect for: KS2 English and geography cross-curricular lessons Year 4 interview or observation lessons LKS2 diary writing units SPaG, grammar and descriptive writing development Topic hooks for Mountains, Earth and space, or Around the World Search terms: KS2 diary writing | Mount Everest lesson | English interview lesson | Ofsted observation | Year 4 diary entry | LKS2 mountains | geography and English cross-curricular | SEN writing task | extreme earth | English writing KS2 | grammar and description
40-Session Reciprocal Guided Reading Unit for Year 3 / Year 4
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40-Session Reciprocal Guided Reading Unit for Year 3 / Year 4

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This 40-session unit is designed to develop reading comprehension skills for mixed Year 3 and Year 4 classes. It provides a clear structure for teaching reciprocal reading strategies such as clarifying, predicting, questioning, and summarising. The unit includes detailed lesson planning, text extracts, worksheets, and additional resources like toolkits to support learning. What’s Included: ✔ 40 detailed lesson plans for reciprocal guided reading ✔ Text extracts for analysis ✔ Worksheets and activities to support comprehension ✔ Additional resources, including toolkits for guided reading ✔ Focus on a variety of text types: character descriptions, diary entries, setting descriptions, balanced arguments, persuasive texts, newspaper reports Lesson Overview / Structure: ★ Starter Activity – Introduce key strategies such as prediction and clarification. ★ Main Activity – Engage with text extracts, focusing on comprehension tasks like questioning and summarising. ★ Plenary – Review learning, ensuring understanding of strategies and text analysis. Why it’s Useful: ✔ Provides clear structure for reciprocal reading sessions ✔ Focuses on a wide range of text types for varied comprehension practice ✔ Supports independent learning with differentiated tasks ✔ Helps improve key literacy skills, ideal for Ofsted standards Suggested Use Cases: Ideal for Year 3 and Year 4 mixed ability classes working on developing comprehension skills. Suitable for reciprocal reading sessions, guided reading, and independent literacy work. Search Tags: Year 3 reading | Year 4 reading | reciprocal guided reading | LKS2 literacy | reading comprehension strategies | Ofsted literacy | character descriptions | persuasive writing | newspaper report | guided reading worksheets
Newspaper Report – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions
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Newspaper Report – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions

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Ideal for whole-class or small group reading | No prior knowledge of Kensuke’s Kingdom needed This five-session guided reading unit focuses on a newspaper report inspired by Kensuke’s Kingdom, but the sessions are fully accessible without any background knowledge of the text. Designed for lower KS2, this resource supports children in building key reading skills while exploring the structure and language of newspaper writing. Each session includes a clear learning objective, reading focus, vocabulary tasks, and opportunities for prediction, inference and discussion. What’s included: ✓ 5 fully planned guided reading sessions ✓ Engaging newspaper-style text ✓ Vocabulary and inference tasks ✓ Discussion and evaluation questions ✓ Learning objectives clearly outlined for each session Why this unit stands out: Encourages close reading and group discussion Supports children to identify and explain newspaper features Builds confidence with unfamiliar vocabulary and inference Easy to deliver – no additional resources or preparation required Works well across one week or can be spread over a half term Learning Objectives Covered: Identify and explain the features of a newspaper report Analyse and evaluate the language and structure Infer and deduce information Evaluate and respond to the text Compare the features of newspaper reports Ideal for: Y3, Y4 Whole-class or small group guided reading KS2 reading lessons or literacy intervention sessions Search terms: ks2 guided reading newspaper report y3 y4 reciprocal reading lower key stage 2 group reading comprehension fiction kensuke’s kingdom newspaper writing vocabulary inference fluency
Persuasive Leaflet – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions
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Persuasive Leaflet – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions

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Ideal for whole-class or small group reading | Fictional leaflet about a theme park – Adventure Land This five-session guided reading unit focuses on a persuasive leaflet advertising a fictional theme park. Designed for lower KS2, these sessions help pupils explore the purpose, language and structure of persuasive writing. The sessions are structured around shared reading, discussion, vocabulary clarification, and targeted comprehension tasks, making it ideal for building confidence with persuasive texts. What’s included: ✓ 5 fully planned guided reading sessions ✓ Persuasive leaflet (fictional theme park) ✓ Vocabulary focus and prediction tasks ✓ Comprehension questions to develop inference and evaluation ✓ Clear learning objectives for each session Why this unit stands out: Supports pupils in identifying persuasive features and techniques Encourages rich discussion and critical thinking Accessible and engaging text – no extra knowledge needed Works well as a week-long unit or over a half term Ready to use with no prep – ideal for classroom or intervention groups Learning Objectives Covered: Identify and explain the features of a persuasive leaflet 2–4. Analyse and evaluate the language and structure Identify and compare persuasive features across texts Ideal for: Y3, Y4 Whole-class or group guided reading KS2 literacy lessons or reciprocal reading sessions Search terms: ks2 guided reading persuasive leaflet y3 y4 reciprocal reading lks2 lower key stage 2 reading comprehension ofsted writing features vocabulary adventure park theme park advertising persuasive writing fluency
Informal Letters – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 10 Fully Planned Sessions
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Informal Letters – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 10 Fully Planned Sessions

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Ideal for whole-class or small group reading | Casual letters with everyday life themes This 10-lesson guided reading unit explores informal letters. With three varied texts focused on casual, everyday topics, students will delve into the features and language of informal letters, helping them develop their understanding of letter structure and tone. These sessions are designed for whole-class or group reading, with a focus on predicting, clarifying vocabulary, and exploring the content of the letters in detail. What’s included: ✓ 10 fully planned guided reading sessions ✓ 3 informal letter texts based on casual, everyday themes ✓ Vocabulary clarification and prediction tasks ✓ Comprehension questions to explore features, tone, and purpose ✓ Clear learning objectives for each session Why this unit stands out: Focuses on real-world, relatable informal writing Encourages students to explore tone, feelings, and purpose Accessible texts with everyday vocabulary for Y3 and Y4 learners Ideal for building writing and reading comprehension skills Ready to use with no prep – perfect for classroom or intervention groups Learning Objectives Covered: Analyse and compare the features and structure of a letter Infer and explain the writer’s feelings and opinions Understand and summarise the main points of a letter Summarise the main points and write a question based on the text 5–6. Identify and describe the features and content of an informal letter Analyse and compare the tone and purpose of an informal letter Understand and summarise the introduction of an informal letter Infer and explain the writer’s feelings from the body and conclusion of the letter Evaluate and improve the organisation and structure of an informal letter Ideal for: Y3, Y4 Whole-class or group guided reading KS2 literacy lessons or reciprocal reading sessions Search terms: ks2 guided reading informal letters y3 y4 lower key stage 2 reading comprehension writing features tone feelings organisation structure of letter casual letters of everyday life writing evaluation
Balanced Argument – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions
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Balanced Argument – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions

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Ideal for whole-class or small group reading | Focus on school uniform debate This 5-session guided reading unit focuses on the balanced argument structure, with a text centred around the debate on school uniforms. Students will learn how to analyse and evaluate both sides of the argument, using critical thinking and reasoning skills to form their own opinions on the topic. The unit is perfect for exploring persuasive language and argument techniques, and each session is designed to guide students through understanding the features of a balanced argument. What’s included: ✓ 5 fully planned guided reading sessions ✓ A text focusing on reasons for and against school uniforms ✓ Vocabulary clarification and prediction tasks ✓ Comprehension questions focused on structure, language, and argument evaluation ✓ Clear learning objectives for each session Why this unit stands out: Helps students engage with a relevant, real-world issue Focuses on evaluating arguments and forming evidence-based opinions Encourages critical thinking and understanding of persuasive techniques Ideal for building skills in both reading and writing persuasive texts Ready to use with no prep – perfect for classroom or intervention groups Learning Objectives Covered: Identify and explain the features and structure of a balanced argument and express their own opinion on the topic Compare and contrast different points of view on school uniforms and use conjunctions to link ideas Analyse the language and techniques used to present the negative aspects of school uniforms and evaluate the strength of the arguments Evaluate the validity and reliability of the statements in a balanced argument and justify their own opinion Summarise the main points of a balanced argument and write a conclusion that states the writer’s opinion and the reasons for it Ideal for: Y3, Y4 Whole-class or group guided reading KS2 literacy lessons or reciprocal reading sessions Search terms: ks2 guided reading balanced argument school uniforms y3 y4 lower key stage 2 writing comprehension opinion persuasive language evaluating arguments
Setting Descriptions – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions
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Setting Descriptions – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions

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Ideal for whole-class or small group reading | Focus on fairground setting This 5-session guided reading unit explores setting descriptions, with a focus on a vibrant fairground scene. Students will deepen their understanding of how authors use descriptive language to bring settings to life, analysing and evaluating the language and structure of the text. The unit is perfect for teaching students how to describe settings effectively, using rich vocabulary and sensory details. What’s included: ✓ 5 fully planned guided reading sessions ✓ A text focusing on a descriptive fairground setting ✓ Vocabulary clarification and prediction tasks ✓ Comprehension questions focused on description, language, and setting ✓ Clear learning objectives for each session Why this unit stands out: Helps students understand how to use sensory details in descriptive writing Encourages the exploration of vivid and imaginative language Ideal for building students’ descriptive writing skills and understanding text structure Ready-to-use with no prep – great for whole-class or guided reading groups Learning Objectives Covered: Identify and explain the features of a setting description Analyse and evaluate the language and structure of a setting description Identify and explain the key elements that make up an effective setting description Understand how the author uses language to create a vivid description of the fairground Respond to a descriptive text about a fairground, reflecting on the sensory experience Ideal for: Y3, Y4 Whole-class or group guided reading KS2 literacy lessons or reciprocal reading sessions Search terms: ks2 guided reading setting description fairground y3 y4 lower key stage 2 writing comprehension descriptive language imagery
Diary Entries – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions
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Diary Entries – Guided Reading Unit (Y3/Y4 | KS2) | 5 Fully Planned Sessions

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Ideal for whole-class or small group reading | Focus on a diary entry written by a ghost This 5-session guided reading unit focuses on the structure and features of a diary entry, using an engaging text based on the diary of a ghost. The unit challenges students to infer the writer’s identity from clues in the text, making it a fun and engaging way to explore diary entries. Students will learn how to analyse language, make inferences about the writer’s emotions, and understand the structure of a diary entry. What’s included: ✓ 5 fully planned guided reading sessions ✓ A diary entry text with descriptive language and a twist ✓ Tasks to predict, clarify vocabulary, and explore meaning ✓ Comprehension questions to assess inference, mood, and language use ✓ Clear learning objectives for each session Why this unit stands out: Encourages students to infer emotions and identity through reading Stimulates critical thinking through an unexpected twist (the writer is a ghost) Helps build students’ understanding of diary writing and narrative voice Ideal for fostering creativity as students write their own diary entries from a different perspective Learning Objectives Covered: Understand the features and structure of a diary entry and infer the feelings and motives of the writer Infer the meaning and mood of a diary entry and make predictions based on the text and illustrations Analyse the language and imagery of a diary entry and write a comprehension question based on the text Evaluate the writer’s perspective and feelings in a diary entry and compare it with other diary entries Synthesize the information and ideas from a diary entry and write a creative diary entry from a different perspective Ideal for: Y3, Y4 Whole-class or group guided reading KS2 literacy lessons or reciprocal reading sessions Search terms: ks2 guided reading diary entry ghost y3 y4 lower key stage 2 creative writing comprehension inference mood
Character Descriptions Guided Reading – 5 Sessions (Y3/Y4 | LKS2)
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Character Descriptions Guided Reading – 5 Sessions (Y3/Y4 | LKS2)

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Fully resourced for reading, vocabulary building, and character analysis | Ideal for 30–60 minute sessions. This 5-session guided reading unit focuses on character descriptions, using a fairy character as the basis for introducing descriptive vocabulary. Students will read the text together as a class (or in groups), predicting, clarifying vocabulary, and exploring the text’s structure. The unit helps children understand the features of a character description, including how language and punctuation are used to create suspense. It includes a Character Description Toolkit, providing key features for students to apply when writing their own character descriptions at the end of the unit. What’s included: x5 lesson plans x5 PowerPoints Character Description Toolkit Text for group reading Vocabulary clarification activities Writing templates for students Why this unit stands out: Supports students in building descriptive writing skills Engages children in identifying and using key language features in character descriptions Offers a clear structure with differentiated tasks to support all learners Ideal for reciprocal reading sessions and group activities Perfect for: Y3, Y4, LKS2, guided reading sessions, character analysis, descriptive writing Search terms: guided reading, character description, LKS2, Y3, Y4, reciprocal reading, vocabulary, reading comprehension, Ofsted, KS2
LKS2 Non-Fiction & Poetry Reading Comprehension Assessment
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LKS2 Non-Fiction & Poetry Reading Comprehension Assessment

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This free reading comprehension assessment is ideal for Year 3 or Year 4 students. It includes a mix of non-fiction and poetry texts with SATs-style questions, designed to assess key reading skills such as understanding, analysis, and retrieval. The resource features a non-chronological report on animal life cycles and a poem about spiders, followed by relevant comprehension questions. What’s Included: ✔ Non-chronological report on animal life cycles ✔ Poem about spiders ✔ SATs-style reading comprehension questions ✔ Mark scheme for easy assessment Lesson Overview / Structure: ★ Non-chronological Report – Read a report on animal life cycles and answer questions about the key details. ★ Poem – Read a poem about spiders, followed by comprehension questions to assess understanding and interpretation. ★ Comprehension Questions – Test understanding with a series of SATs-style questions, focusing on key reading skills such as retrieval, inference, and explanation. ★ Mark Scheme – Use the provided mark scheme to assess student responses accurately. Why It’s Useful: ✔ Ideal for assessing reading comprehension at LKS2 ✔ Covers both non-fiction and poetry, offering a broad range of reading skills ✔ Provides SATs-style questions for a familiar test format ✔ Includes a detailed mark scheme for quick and effective assessment Suggested Use Cases: Perfect for Year 3 and Year 4 reading assessments, revision for SATs-style tests, or as part of guided reading sessions. You may also be interested in… ☆ 36 Writing Genre Checklists for KS1 and KS2 (Editable) ☆ ‘I must remember to…’ Writing Prompts for all year groups ☆ Y3/4 Guided Reading - Term Unit - 32 sessions Search Tags: assessment | lower KS2 | Year 3 reading | Year 4 reading | poetry | non-fiction | SATs questions | comprehension | reading test | animal life cycles
The Magic of Mushkil Gusha Reciprocal Reading Unit (KS2)
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The Magic of Mushkil Gusha Reciprocal Reading Unit (KS2)

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This reciprocal reading unit, based on the traditional Iranian story The Magic of Mushkil Gusha, is suitable for Year 3 to Year 6 students. It can be used over a week or across five lessons. The resource provides a unique opportunity to introduce students to Iranian culture through an engaging and thought-provoking text. Ideal for guided reading or home learning, the text and activities are designed to develop key reading skills. What’s Included: ✔ Detailed lesson plans for 5 lessons ✔ PowerPoint presentations for visual support ✔ Text for The Magic of Mushkil Gusha ✔ Activities and comprehension questions for guided reading ✔ Marking and assessment tools Lesson Overview / Structure: ★ Starter – Introduce the story and explore the context of Iranian culture. ★ Main Activity – Use reciprocal reading strategies to read the text together, focusing on comprehension, inference, and prediction skills. ★ Plenary – Review the main ideas of the story, discuss the moral lessons, and assess understanding through guided discussion and activities. ★ Home Learning Option – The text and activities are suitable for remote learning or independent study. Why It’s Useful: ✔ Introduces students to a new culture through literature ✔ Builds key reading skills such as comprehension, inference, and prediction ✔ Suitable for both classroom and home learning environments ✔ Teacher-friendly format with all resources provided Suggested Use Cases: Perfect for KS2 guided reading, cultural studies, and remote learning activities. Search Tags: KS2 reading | reciprocal reading | Iranian culture | guided reading | home learning | Year 3 lesson plan | Year 4 reading | Year 5 | Year 6 | cultural education