Week 32, Guided Reading "The Praying Mantis" - Phonics Phase 5 - Worksheet

The "All Aboard Phonics" guided reading manual for Week 32 introduces young learners to the fascinating world of the praying mantis through a variety of engaging comprehension questions and activities. The worksheet begins by prompting students to consider the title of the book, encouraging them to think critically about the information presented on the cover and the blurb on the back. These questions serve as a gateway to exploring the content of the book, asking students to categorize it as fiction or non-fiction, and to share their personal experiences and knowledge about the praying mantis.

Delving deeper, the questions aim to enhance understanding of the text and the author's perspectives, such as what makes the praying mantis an amusing insect to observe, and the significance of finding large groups, or 'armies', of them in September. The students are also asked to consider the praying mantis' natural predators and its remarkable ability to camouflage. The worksheet encourages interactive learning by asking students to physically imitate a male praying mantis and to express their opinions about the book, fostering a habit of critical thinking and articulation. Bonus questions stimulate the imagination, asking students to ponder having the same adaptive skills as the praying mantis and to choose between two extraordinary powers. To consolidate their learning, students are tasked with writing a fact file about the praying mantis, including a unique 'Boogie Rating' for the insect's 'dance skills', blending factual learning with creative expression.