The Big Surprise Level 12-14

In The Big Surprise, readers are invited into the lives of two young girls who are eagerly awaiting the arrival of a new baby sibling. Their anticipation builds throughout the story, which takes an unexpected and delightful turn when they discover that their mother has given birth to not one, but two babies-twins! This heart-warming narrative captures the excitement and wonder of growing families, with engaging features such as direct speech, bold type for emphasis, and italicised words to express emotion and emphasis. Photographs enrich the story visually, adding realism and supporting comprehension. The text includes examples of the final œ-y consonant in words like lovely and baby, and various contractions such as I'm, I'll, and she's, making it an excellent tool for exploring grammar and punctuation. The book encourages students to think critically, make predictions, and discuss how family dynamics can change in surprising and joyful ways.

Educational Benefits:

• Enhances understanding of contractions and expressive punctuation.
• Expands vocabulary related to family and emotions.
• Develops sequencing and narrative prediction skills.
• Supports exploration of grammar through suffixes and word endings.

Classroom Ideas:

• Have students write or draw their own "big surprise" story.
• Discuss the roles and responsibilities of siblings in families.
• Create a word wall using contractions found in the text.
• Role-play different characters' reactions to the twin surprise.

Safety & Information:

• Suitable for ages 5+
• Dimensions: 150 x 200 mm
• Paperback format; includes real-life photographs
• No small parts; safe for classroom and home use