Fun at the Farm, Book 4B

Key Words with Peter and Jane #4b

by W. Murray

"Key Words with Peter and Jane" uses the most frequently met words in the English language as a starting point for learning to read successfully and confidently. The Key Words reading scheme is scientifically researched and world renowned. In book "4b", Peter and Jane meet the animals at a farm in 41 new words including, 'work', 'thanks', 'stop' and 'horses'. Once this book has been completed, the child moves on to book "4c". "The Key Words with Peter and Jane" books work because each of the key words is introduced gradually and repeated frequently. This builds confidence in children when they recognise these key words on sight (also known as the 'look and say' method of learning). Examples of key words the, one, two, he. There are 12 levels, each with 3 a, b, and c. "Series a": gradually introduces new words. "Series b": provides further practise of words featured in the 'a' series. "Series c": links reading with writing and phonics. All the words that have been introduced in each 'a' and 'b' book are also reinforced in the 'c' books.

56 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1965

About the author

William Murray was an educational adviser at a borstal and later headmaster of a "school for the educationally subnormal" in Cheltenham. From research undertaken in the 1950s by Murray with Professor Joe McNally, an educational psychologist at Manchester University, Murray realised that only 12 words account for ¼, 100 words account for ½, and 300 words account for ¾ of the words used in normal speaking, reading and writing in the English language.

He developed 'The Key Words Reading Scheme,' a series of 36 English language early readers children's books, published by the British publishing company, Ladybird Books.

Starting with book 1a, a budding reader of primary school age, from 3 to 5 year old, is introduced to brother and sister Peter and Jane, their dog Pat, their Mummy and Daddy, and their home, toys, playground, the beach, shops, buses and trains, and so on. (wiki)

Reviews

[Dane Cobain · Rating 4 out of 5]

This might sound like the title of a blue movie, but it’s actually a cute little Ladybird book that’s designed to help children to learn to read. Cute and fun!

[Alex Sarll]

You can see why this book has been relegated to holding bills at a cocktail bar. Given all the ominous situations the kids skirt, there's a complete failure to obey the dramatic rules of Chekhov via Casualty.

[Kylie Abecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember learning to read with these books when I was little. I remember how much effort and concentration I put into it. It’s quite fun watching the kids learning to read with the same books.