Bug Hunt Clipboards: Non-Fiction Reading Activity for Reception

Non-fiction reading is all about discovering that print carries meaning for learning about the real world. This outdoor bug hunt encourages children to use simple spotter guides and information books to identify mini-beasts, blending literacy with nature exploration.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Introduce the Mission

Show the children the non-fiction books. Explain that these aren't storybooks, but 'fact books' to help us learn. Hand out the clipboards and explain they are going to be nature detectives.

2. Head Outdoors

Take the group to an outdoor area. Lay the non-fiction books out on a dry table or picnic blanket as a 'research station'. Let the children spread out to gently look under logs and leaves.

3. Spot and Tick

When a child finds a mini-beast, encourage them to use their phonic knowledge to read the simple labels on their spotter guide and tick off what they have found.

4. Research the Findings

Direct children back to the research station. Help them look through the non-fiction books to find a photograph or drawing that matches the bug they just spotted.

5. Share One Fact

Gather the group together at the end. Ask: "Did anyone find out a fact from the books?" Discuss how useful the information books were for their outdoor mission.

Classroom Adaptations

Large class?

Divide the outdoor space into specific 'search zones' and rotate groups to manage movement.

Limited resources?

Provide one large shared clipboard per small group and let them take turns being the 'ticker'.

Mixed ages?

Have older children read the spotter captions aloud for their younger peers.

High ability?

Ask them to use the book's contents page to locate a specific insect quickly.