The ‘kits' are divided into different sections and teachers are encouraged to pick and choose the materials they want to use. However, there is one section that we strongly advise teachers to use, even if they use no other. This is the ‘Pre-reading' section. In this section students are not only prepared for the story they will be reading, but will begin the transformation from being a student to being a reader. We believe that reading is a creative act and that reading literary fiction - however long - touches on the multitude of stories already within us. Without the ´Pre-reading' activities, the exercise will just be another classroom activity and lose much of its value.

The texts are accompanied by an audio version, often of the author reading the story. Reading (or listening to) the story can then be followed by post-reading activities: ‘Context' (which explores areas related to topics raised in the story) and ‘Word Work' (which examines some of the lexical and grammatical features used). Some kits also contain a short ‘After Reading' section which suggests related reading or project work that can lead the interested student in new directions.

Each kit contains a Teacher's Key, which gives some suggestions about using the material as well as providing the answers to certain exercises. However, you should be aware that many of the activities are designed to explore subjective reasoning, or simply do not have cut and dried answers. Literary texts do not usually have simple answers, and many of the activities in the kits explore this aspect of individual mental positioning, asking students for opinions rather than factual ‘right or wrong' answers.

Finally, be aware that all the materials presented are constantly in a state of flux and are being edited, added to or substituted as teachers use them and make new suggestions. If you have some suggestions you want to make, or have some activities you have tried which you think should be included, let us know.