CNY Zodiac Race: A Lunar New Year Story

The Great Zodiac Race - Chinese New Year Legend Reading Comprehension

Differentiated for Key Stage 2 & 3
Capture your pupils’ imagination with the captivating legend of the Chinese zodiac, delving into the traits and tales behind each animal in this iconic race. Perfect for exploring the traditions of Lunar New Year and Chinese New Year, this beautifully illustrated reading comprehension resource features two differentiated texts, making it ideal for a variety of learning needs:

• Lower Level (400L–600L, suitable for Years 3–4): A simplified version with clear, concise language and larger, reader-friendly text, designed for younger or less confident readers. It focuses on the key events and character interactions in an accessible, age-appropriate way.
• Higher Level (600L–800L, suitable for Years 5–8): A more advanced version offering greater detail and vocabulary to challenge fluent or older readers while enhancing their understanding of the story’s themes.

Both versions bring the zodiac’s origin story to life, showcasing themes of cleverness, teamwork, kindness, and perseverance in a memorable cultural narrative.

What’s Included:
Each level comes with engaging, differentiated activities designed to support comprehension and vocabulary building:

• Mixed-Style Question Sheets: Vocabulary matching, sequencing, cloze passages, true/false activities, and written responses to encourage critical thinking.
• True or False Activities: Evaluate understanding of key details and main ideas.
• Multiple Choice Quizzes: One version for the lower level and two for the higher level to assess comprehension interactively.
• Cloze Summary Activity: Strengthens vocabulary while reinforcing the story’s key elements.
• 2 Crossword Puzzles: Fun, interactive practice to solidify understanding of key terms and ideas.
• Traditional Written Comprehension Sheets: Double-sided for reflective practice and written responses.
• Answer Keys

For another Lunar New Year resource, check out Legend of Nian: Differentiated Reading