Retelling Using Key Details Activity
This retelling using key details activity helps kindergarten to 3rd grade students sort key events, put them in order, and retell a story, with an answer key included.
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About this resource
Description
A good retell tells what happened in order, using only the details that matter. This retelling using key details activity helps young readers practice exactly that. Students read or listen to an original story about a muddy puppy named Floppy, sort picture cards into key events and details that are not needed, and retell the story in order with first, next, then, and last.
The pack starts with the story Floppy Gets a Bath and a colorful picture of the bath. Eight picture cards show four key events and four small details, such as a bluebird singing or a red collar. Students choose the key events, place them on the Retell Mat in order with the four word cards, and set the other cards aside. Then they retell the whole story aloud. The cards are mixed so the order never follows a pattern, and the key shows the right order, the details that are not needed, and a sample retell. A 1st grade practice worksheet has a new short story, and students number four events from 1 to 4. It has its own answer key.
What’s Included
- A colorful cover page
- A How to Use page with materials, prep tips, and simple steps
- An original story with a full-color picture
- 8 picture cards: 4 key events and 4 details
- 4 word cards: First, Next, Then, Last
- A Retell Mat
- A practice worksheet: number the events in order
- A retell card answer key and a practice answer key
Why This Activity Helps
First, sorting key events from small details teaches students what belongs in a retell and what does not. Second, the sequence words give children a simple frame for telling events in order. Third, retelling aloud builds comprehension, vocabulary, and speaking skills at the same time.
Ideas for Teachers and Parents
Read the story aloud to kindergarten students and let them sort the pictures with a partner. First and second graders can read on their own and write their retell. Third graders can explain why each detail card is not needed. This kindergarten retelling activity also works with any favorite book, using the word cards and the mat. Pair the retelling using key details activity with the resources below.
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