The Red Balloon: Level 6 (Collins Big Cat Arabic Reading Programme), Paperback Book, By: Sue Graves

Collins Arabic Big Cat is a guided reading series for ages 3 to 11. The series is structured with reference to the learning progression of Arabic at nursery and primary schools researched especially for Collins. This carefully graded approach allows children to build up their reading knowledge of Arabic step by step. Level 6 books provide an advance on level 5. Sentences are still highly repetitive but slightly longer, with simple story development supported by illustrations. Double spacing is used between words to ensure children see where each new word in a sentence begins and ends. Although the focus at level 6 remains on reading the core words, the concept of reading hamzat al-wasl and sun letters correctly is introduced in non-verbal sentences of up to 4-5 words. The red balloon flies up, up and away! Follow the balloon's journey over the captivating landscape of the rooftops, river, mountains and the sea in this simple non-fiction recount. The flow chart on pages 14 and 15 allows children to discuss and recap the balloon's journey.