This oral language text is perfect for supporting student comprehension of plot, setting and vocabulary, while encouraging discussion that makes connections to students’ own experience. The Miserable Magpie tells the story of Millie, a lonely magpie who dreams of having a friend to spend time with. Is she brave enough to leave her home and chase her dream? Find out in this simple text, designed to be read aloud to your students. The Miserable Magpie is aligned with Science of Reading and can also be easily used as a model text in Talk 4 Writing contexts. Included with this text are several resources to expand on student learning:

• The Miserable Magpie Worksheets to cover elements of text structure, plot, characters, making connections and challenging vocabulary. These activities are easily differentiated for learners of various abilities. Use as many or as few as you like!
• Magpie Wall Display to discover and highlight big vocabulary words heard during the text. We’ve included word wall cards for every bolded vocabulary word in the text, but you can also use the blank word wall cards in this display to include additional words or even words from other texts read throughout the year! Use the provided image pieces to construct a tree and branch display or create your own with your students as a craftivity.
• Comprehension Discussion Prompt Cards to use with your class as a mat activity. Use these cards to ask questions about the text and initiate discussion. They’re also reusable for any other text in your classroom!
• Top Down Topic Web Templates targeted to the text. Print these templates for your students to complete individually or use them as a whole class modelled graphic organiser on your interactive whiteboard. We’ve provided a template specific to The Miserable Magpie as well as a blank template you can use for future texts.

Print prompt cards and displays on thick card for re-use. Why not try putting worksheets and graphic organisers into plastic sleeves to be re-used with whiteboard markers in a small group rotation?