Comprehension Caterpillar Craft is a hands-on and visually engaging resource designed to help students summarise the key elements of a story. Using a simple, structured template, students respond to comprehension prompts and then assemble their writing into a colourful caterpillar – perfect for turning literacy learning into a vibrant classroom display!

This creative activity encourages students to think critically about the stories they read, while reinforcing key comprehension skills such as identifying characters, setting, plot and message. With both guided and blank templates provided, the Comprehension Caterpillar can be easily differentiated to suit different year levels, abilities or focus texts.

Ideal for whole-class novel studies, guided reading responses or Book Week celebrations, this low-prep craft makes comprehension feel creative, purposeful, and fun. Whether mounted on the included backing or displayed freely, these caterpillars are sure to add colour and literacy to your learning space!

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Summarise key narrative elements including setting, characters, problem and resolution
• ✅ Sequence story events from beginning to end
• ✅ Reflect on story message or moral
• ✅ Express ideas clearly through writing and drawing
• ✅ Engage with comprehension in a creative, hands-on way

What’s Included:

• Comprehension Caterpillar writing templates (9 standard prompts + blank options)
• 18mm and 24mm line spacing for differentiation
• Backing strip template and display banner
• Completed example and teacher instructions

Materials Needed:

• Printed caterpillar templates
• Scissors, glue, pencils or markers
• Optional: pipe cleaners, googly eyes, pom poms for decoration
• Backing card or wall space for display

How to Use:

1. Choose a focus book or allow students to select their own text.
2. Print the required templates – select from pre-filled prompts or use blank versions for customisation.
3. Students respond to each prompt using writing and/or drawing, then cut out and assemble their caterpillar segments in order.
4. Decorate the caterpillar with optional extras such as pipe cleaner antennae or googly eyes.
5. Display finished caterpillars on a bulletin board or reading wall using the included banner.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use after guided reading sessions to consolidate story comprehension
• 💡 Assign as a creative book report project during Book Week or literature units
• 💡 Display caterpillars under your classroom’s “We’re Hungry for Reading!” wall
• 💡 Pair with buddy reading – younger students create the craft with help from older peers

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Enlarge to A3 size for younger students to provide more space for writing and drawing
• 💛 Assign specific prompts for each segment if working with early writers or EAL/D students
• 💛 Store spare templates in a folder labelled by line type for easy access year-round
• 💛 Laminate finished caterpillars for longer-lasting displays or literacy portfolios

Comprehension Caterpillar Craft offers a delightful blend of creativity and literacy, helping students develop comprehension skills while making something they can proudly share. It’s the perfect way to bring stories to life through thoughtful reflection and hands-on fun!