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      Building comprehension of 'Crazy about Cats' through rich discussion

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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can answer a range of comprehension questions on ‘Crazy about Cats'.

      Key learning points

      1. Readers can use layout features of a non-fiction text to navigate sections quickly.
      2. Skimming and scanning is a strategy readers can use to retrieve the information they are looking for rapidly.
      3. The structure and features of a text can help identify keywords or key information.

      Keywords

      • Retrieval - Retrieval is finding key details or information in the text and extracting them.

      • Skimming - Skimming is quickly glancing over text for main ideas and key points.

      • Scanning - Scanning is rapidly searching text for specific information or keywords.

      • Layout - The layout of a text refers to the way the information is organised on the page.

      Common misconception

      When retrieving answers to a question, pupils may re-read the entire text each time.

      Emphasise through modelling that pupils can use skimming and scanning strategies to quickly locate the information they require.

      Teacher tip

      You can model examples of skimming and scanning with the class using a visualiser, or working with smaller groups to clearly exemplify the strategy.

      Equipment

      You will need access to a copy of the text 'Crazy About Cats', by Owen Davy, published by Flying Eye Books 2017.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

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