In the Car - Levels 1-2

In the Car tells the humorous story of a family that isn't very excited to get into the car-until Mum surprises them with ice cream! This fun and relatable narrative uses repetition and predictable language to support beginning readers in developing fluency and comprehension. Key vocabulary includes family names and feelings, supported by the recurring phrase œis not happy. Through expressive illustrations and simple phonics cues (e.g., /d/ for Dad, Dino), children learn to make predictions and use visual cues to aid understanding. The text encourages children to engage in creative retelling and explore family dynamics and problem-solving in everyday situations.

Educational Benefits:

• Develops reading fluency through repetition and predictable sentence structures.
• Supports phonemic awareness with initial consonants and simple CVC words.
• Encourages emotional literacy through character reactions and storyline.
• Builds sequencing skills through narrative events and outcomes.

Classroom Ideas:

• Role-play the story using props and masks for each character.
• Make a class chart of different ways to feel better when sad.
• Create alternative endings where different events cheer the family up.
• Use letter cards to practise building and blending CVC words from the story.

Safety & Information:

• Suitable for ages 4+
• Book dimensions: 14.5 cm x 16.5 cm
• 16 pages; staple-bound
• Ensure safe use of small craft items (e.g. paper circles, glue) during extension activities.