The Explorer - Session 5 - Reading Comprehension

In "The Explorer" session focused on Reading Comprehension, students delve into the chapter titled "Food (almost)", which prompts curiosity about the characters' precarious food situation. The comprehension exercise comprises a series of questions that encourage students to think critically about the text. For instance, question one asks why the chapter is named "Food (almost)", hinting at the theme of survival and the challenges faced by the characters in sourcing food. The questions progress to explore the suggestions made by Fred for alternative food sources and Con's concern about the safety of berries, reflecting the characters' struggle for sustenance in an uncertain environment.

The exercise also delves into the language used in the text, with one question asking students to interpret the phrase 'breathless and eye-stretched', which likely describes a moment of intense emotion or action. Further questions probe into the characters' backgrounds and experiences, such as the reason behind Lila's near expulsion from school, adding depth to the readers' understanding of the characters. Students are also asked about the taste of grubs, a detail that adds realism to the survival theme. Additionally, they explore the reasons behind Max's nervousness, which could relate to the group's dire circumstances. The final task challenges students to condense the essence of "Food (almost)" into a brief summary, honing their ability to distil information and capture the chapter's main points in a concise manner.