Collins Arabic Big Cat is a guided reading series for ages 3 to 11. The series is structured with reference to the learning progression of Arabic at nursery and primary schools researched especially for Collins. This carefully graded approach allows children to build up their reading knowledge of Arabic step by step. Level 8 books are becoming more complex, although still strongly patterned but to a lesser extent than level 7. Although the focus remains on vowelling to aid the flow of reading with verbal sentences of up to 8-10 words, level 8 books have more events and episodes, fewer repeated patterns, and more complex vocabulary. Non-fiction titles use non-fiction tools – including signs, labels, captions and diagrams – where necessary. Double spacing is used between words to ensure children see where each new word in a sentence begins and ends. Marzooqa is a shy tortoise who hides away, especially when it’s time to tidy up! But what will happen when Marzooqa is forced out of the comfort of her own shell? This sweet story is written and illustrated by acclaimed author Charlotte Middleton. Children can follow the important stages of the story in the flow chart on pages 14–15.