
Headwork Reading is a new series of 18 fiction books for 11-14 year olds with reading ages of 6-9 years. The storybooks are carefully graded into four levels, using the Fry reading scale, and range from 400-3000 words in length with varying numbers of stories in each book. Built-in progression, through story length, language level, and conceptual loading, allows reluctant readers to increase their reading skills and stamina gradually. The stories range across the genres that interest the target readers, e.g. mystery, fantasy, romance, true stories, crime and horror. The strong lines and accurate but intriguing illustrations motivate reluctant readers to read on. The four levels are supported by one Teacher's Book and three cassettes.
Two distinct narratives challenge the protagonists to navigate high-stakes situations involving criminal activity and personal discovery. These stories follow characters placed in immediate, pressure-filled scenarios that require quick thinking and decisive action. The narrative framework utilizes accessible language and structured pacing to accommodate readers developing their literacy skills. Each story presents a contained conflict that forces the protagonist to confront external obstacles within a realistic, contemporary setting.
Readers and educators frequently highlight the effectiveness of this series in supporting reluctant readers who require accessible material. The balance between simple language and engaging genre-based plots allows for steady progress in reading confidence. Discussion often centers on the utility of the Fry reading scale in ensuring that the conceptual loading remains appropriate for the intended age range. The inclusion of diverse genres ensures that readers maintain interest while developing their reading stamina over time.
Page Count:
32
Publication Date:
1995-01-01
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0198334931
ISBN-13:
9780198334934
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