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 7 books include story lines with
more episodes in time sequence, and may include imaginary happenings in
the context of familiar experiences. There is still repetition, but more
variation in pattern and more new words are introduced than in lower
levels. Nonfiction titles bring in simple nonfiction tools, such as
diagrams, labels, and captions. Additional vowel marks that encourage
the flow of pronunciation are introduced at this level. Verbal sentences
of up to 8-10 words with repeating and accessible actions appear at this
level. Double spacing is used between words to ensure children see where
each new word in a sentence begins and ends. When a hungry boy wishes
for an egg he gets a surprise a magic egg that makes everything he
wishes for come true, with hilarious consequences. But in the end does
he ever really get what he wants? This traditional tale is beautifully
illustrated by Karen Donnelly to set the scene and encourage discussion.
A circular story map on pages 14-15 shows the boys journey and the
consequence of each of his wishes, providing a wealth of speaking and
listening opportunities."