The Legend of Nian – Differentiated Reading Comprehension
Bring the Legend of Nian to life in your classroom with this engaging and differentiated reading pack. Perfect for exploring the themes of Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year, this resource offers two levels of text to suit a range of abilities:
Lower Level (450L–650L, suitable for Years 3–5): Simplified language and clear sentence structure for younger or emerging readers, introducing key themes and traditions.
Higher Level (850L–950L, suitable for Years 5–7): More complex language and depth, offering a greater challenge while exploring cultural traditions and folklore.
Both texts provide a captivating retelling of the Legend of Nian and introduce traditions like firecrackers, red decorations, and dragon dances, helping pupils understand their cultural significance.
What’s Included:
At each reading level, students will find a variety of activities designed to deepen understanding and reinforce key concepts:
Mixed-Style Question Sheets: Vocabulary matching, sequencing, cloze passages, true/false activities, and written response questions to foster critical thinking.
True or False Activities: Evaluates understanding of cultural and story elements.
Multiple Choice Quizzes: Includes two versions for the higher level and one for the lower level to assess comprehension in an interactive way.
Cloze Summary Activity: Enhances vocabulary retention while reinforcing the main ideas of the story.
2 Crossword Puzzles: Fun and engaging activities to expand word knowledge and comprehension.
Traditional Written Comprehension Sheets: Double-sided for reflective practice, offering opportunities for deeper engagement with the text.
Answer Keys included for all activities, making this resource easy to implement and use.
Perfect for promoting cultural literacy, critical thinking, and differentiation in Years 3–7 classrooms.
For another Lunar New Year resource, check out CNY Zodiac Race: A Lunar New Year Story.
Chinese New Year – Differentiated Reading Comprehension for Key Stages 2–3
Introduce your pupils to the rich cultural traditions of Chinese New Year with this engaging and educational reading comprehension resource. Designed to celebrate and explore the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, this pack includes two differentiated texts and a variety of activities to support learners at different reading levels.
Lower Level (Lexile 700–900; Key Stage 2, Years 3–5): A simplified version featuring clear, accessible language and straightforward sentence structures. This text introduces the origins and traditions of Chinese New Year, including the significance of zodiac animals, festive foods, and customs. Ideal for younger or less confident readers, it helps build comprehension skills while exploring this vibrant celebration.
Higher Level (Lexile 900–1100; Key Stage 2–3, Years 5–8): A more detailed and advanced text for older or more capable readers. This version explores cultural and historical aspects of Chinese New Year in greater depth, with sections such as “Origins and Legend,” “Preparation,” “Calendar,” and “Festival Period.” Perfect for pupils ready to engage with more complex ideas and language.
Both texts provide valuable insights into Chinese New Year customs, including the story of the Legend of Nian, the symbolism of red decorations, the spectacle of lion and dragon dances, and traditional foods that represent luck and prosperity.
What’s Included:
At each reading level, students will engage with activities designed to deepen understanding and reinforce learning:
Mixed-Style Question Sheets: Includes vocabulary matching, sequencing, cloze passages, true/false activities, and written response questions to foster critical thinking.
True or False Activities: Assesses understanding of the key cultural and story elements.
Multiple Choice Quizzes: Two versions for the higher level and one for the lower level to effectively assess comprehension.
Cloze Summary Activity: Strengthens vocabulary retention while reinforcing the text’s main ideas.
2 Crossword Puzzles: Fun, engaging activities that expand vocabulary and comprehension.
Traditional Written Comprehension Sheets: Double-sided for reflective practice, providing opportunities for deeper engagement with the text.
Answer Keys: Included for all activities.
Looking for more Lunar New Year resources? Check out
Chinese Zodiac Race: Reading Activities for Lunar New Year
Legend of Nian - CNY Story: Differentiated Reading
Includes:
Chinese New Year Reading Comprehension
Legend of Nian: Differentiated Chinese Folktale Reading Resource
Chinese Zodiac Race: Reading Activities for Lunar New Year
Description:
Celebrate the Chinese New Year with this all-in-one literacy bundle! Perfect for fostering cultural awareness and building reading comprehension skills, this bundle includes differentiated reading texts, activities, and engaging resources exploring the traditions, folklore, and history of Lunar New Year. Ideal for Key Stages 2–3 or Grades 3–8 classrooms.
Includes:
Chinese New Year Reading Comprehension
Legend of Nian: Differentiated Chinese Folktale Reading Resource
Description:
Explore the cultural significance of Chinese New Year with this reading and folklore bundle! Featuring differentiated reading texts and activities, this pack covers both the customs of the Spring Festival and the Legend of Nian, offering a deep dive into this global celebration.
Includes:
Legend of Nian: Differentiated Chinese Folktale Reading Resource
Chinese Zodiac Race: Reading Activities for Lunar New Year
Description:
Dive into the stories and symbols of Lunar New Year with this folklore-focused bundle. This set covers the Legend of Nian and the Chinese Zodiac, engaging learners with differentiated texts, activities, and cultural exploration. Ideal for teaching about Chinese traditions while developing literacy skills.