In the Dark Forest Level 3-5

In the Dark Forest invites early readers into a magical night-time forest filled with mysterious creatures and unexpected surprises. Written with a repetitive structure, simple high-frequency words such as "it", "is", and "in", and phonics-based double vowels like œoo and œee, this title is ideal for developing foundational reading skills. The clear two-line text blocks support return sweep and print tracking, while the change in text placement on page 7 adds an element of excitement and supports visual engagement. The story's use of clay-modelling illustration captures the whimsical atmosphere and encourages creative responses from students. With a structured beginning, middle, and end, In the Dark Forest offers a safe introduction to story sequencing, phonics, and imaginative narrative exploration.

Educational Benefits:

• Builds early reading fluency using high-frequency words.
• Develops phonemic awareness through vowel patterns.
• Supports print tracking and visual scanning.
• Fosters imaginative thinking and story sequencing.

Classroom Ideas:

• Use clay to recreate forest creatures from the story.
• Identify and sort high-frequency words from the text.
• Innovate on the story by changing the forest animals.
• Read the story with sound effects to enhance engagement.

Safety & Information:

• Suitable for ages 4+
• Dimensions: 16.5 cm x 14.5 cm
• Text-only; softcover
• Use modelling clay under supervision to avoid ingestion