The Little Mermaid Reading Activity | Read & Sequence | Story Retelling

Suggested ages: 5–9. Suitability depends on reading confidence; younger children may need adult support to read the passages and sequence the story.

Bring The Little Mermaid into your reading lessons with this illustrated read-and-sequence activity based on Hans Christian Andersen’s traditional tale.

Children read eight illustrated story events, cut out and mix the story cards, then arrange them in the correct order. The completed sequence provides a visual prompt for discussing characters, recalling key events and retelling the story aloud.

This pack focuses on reading, sequencing and oral retelling, with no written responses required.

What’s included:

• Four illustrated reading pages, with two large story panels per page

• Eight illustrated cut-out story cards

• A numbered cut-and-paste sequencing mat

• A suggested book-making activity with an illustrated folding guide

• A clickable book-making video link

• Teacher notes with discussion prompts, support and extension ideas

• Terms of use

Skills practised:

• Reading comprehension

• Sequencing events

• Understanding story structure

• Discussing characters’ feelings and choices

• Oral storytelling and retelling

Use for shared reading, guided reading, partner activities or literacy centres. Children can also turn their sequenced cards into a little book to colour, read and share.

Please note:

This resource follows Andersen’s traditional story, including its darker themes and ending. It includes the mermaid losing her voice, a threat to kill the prince, and her transformation into sea foam and a spirit of the air. Teachers should review the story before use.

10-page PDF. A4 landscape format. Student activity pages are black and white for easy printing.

For one teacher’s classroom or personal home use. Additional teachers require their own licence.

Which pack should I choose?

Read & Sequence — this pack

Choose this for reading practice: read illustrated story sections, match text to pictures and put the events in order. An optional make-a-book activity provides further reading practice.

Reading & Comprehension

Choose this for understanding the story through questions, vocabulary work and other reading activities. See the individual listing for the reading and question levels included.

Retell, Sequence & Write

Choose this for picture sequencing, story mapping and retelling the original story aloud and in writing, with picture prompts and captions for support.

Story Innovation / Creative Writing

Choose this for changing characters, settings or events, then planning and writing a new version of the story.

Each pack is sold separately and can be used on its own. You do not need to buy all four. Check the shop for the packs currently available for your chosen story and read each listing for its exact contents.