Oxford Reading Tree Levels
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Overview of the Oxford Reading Tree Program

One of the most important things you can do for your child’s development is to encourage a love of reading. But with so many different reading levels and series available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. The Oxford Reading Tree is a popular series of books designed to help children develop their reading skills. With over 800 books across 30 levels, it’s important to know which level is right for your child.

The program is based around a series of characters, including Biff, Chip, and Kipper, who go on a series of adventures throughout the books. The stories are engaging and fun, and the characters are designed to be relatable to children of all ages.

The program is designed to be flexible, with teachers and parents able to adapt it to suit the needs of individual children. Whether your child is a confident reader or needs a bit of extra support, the Oxford Reading Tree program has something to offer. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at each of the levels in the program and help you to choose the right level for your child. Each level includes a set of books that are designed to help children master specific reading skills.

The Oxford Reading Tree program is a renowned literacy program designed to help young children develop their reading skills. The program is divided into several levels that are structured to help children progress as they learn.

The Oxford Reading Tree program has been proven to be effective in promoting literacy and helping children improve their reading skills. It is widely used in schools and homes around the world and has helped millions of children develop a love for reading and learning. So, Oxford Reading Tree is an excellent way to encourage children to read and develop a love for books.

Oxford Reading Trees Level Distribution – English Syllabus Guru

Oxford Reading Trees Level Distribution
English Syllabus Guru

Oxford Reading Tree Levels (Oxford Owl 🦉)

The Oxford Reading Tree (ORT) has 20 color-coded levels, starting with Book Biff at Level 1 and progressing to Level 20. Each level introduces specific phonics, grammar, and vocabulary concepts while gradually increasing text complexity. The levels roughly correspond to UK reading ages, with Level 1 catering to ages 4-5 years and Level 20 corresponding to ages 10-11 years.

Introduction to the Oxford Reading Tree Levels

The Oxford Reading Tree program is one of the most popular reading programs in the UK and is used in schools and homes across the country. The program is designed to help children learn to read through a series of carefully graded books that introduce new words and concepts in a systematic and progressive way.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the Oxford Reading Tree levels. We’ll explain how the levels work, what reading skills are required for each level, and offer tips for choosing the right level for your child. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this guide will help you navigate the world of children’s reading and set your child on the path to success.

The Oxford Reading Tree program is divided into levels, with each level introducing new words and concepts that build on the previous level. This means that children can progress at their own pace and build their confidence as they go.

As children progress through the levels, they are introduced to more complex vocabulary and storylines, which helps to develop their reading comprehension abilities. The program is designed to be fun and engaging, with colorful illustrations and relatable characters. It also includes interactive activities that help to reinforce the skills that children are learning.

The Oxford Reading Tree levels are designed to help parents, teachers, and caregivers find the appropriate books for children who are learning to read. The levels are based on a structured approach that helps children progress from simple picture books to more complex stories with longer sentences and more challenging vocabulary.

Stages of the Oxford Reading Tree

StagesReading Books
Stage 1First Words
Stage 1+First Sentences
Stage 2More First Sentences
Stage 3First Phonics
Stage 4More Phonics
Stage 5More Stories A
Stage 6More Stories B
Stage 7Stories and More Stories A
Stage 8Stories and More Stories B
Stage 9More Stories C
Stage 10More Stories D
Stage 11Treetops Stories A
Stage 12Treetops Stories B
Stage 13Treetops True Stories
Stage 14Treetops Fiction More A
Stage 15Treetops Fiction More B
Stage 16Treetops All Stars
Table of Stages

Graded Reading Levels and Stages

The Oxford Reading Tree program utilizes a graded reading system to help children develop their reading skills. Graded reading levels are designed to provide a systematic approach to reading instruction, with each level building upon the previous one. The levels are typically identified by a number or a letter, which indicates the difficulty of the reading material. In the Oxford Reading Tree program, the levels are identified by numbers.

In addition to the graded reading levels, the Oxford Reading Tree program also utilizes a staged approach to reading instruction. The stages are designed to help children develop their reading skills in a logical and sequential manner. The stages progress from simple picture books with a basic vocabulary to more complex stories with longer sentences and more advanced vocabulary.

How the Levels are Determined

The levels in the Oxford Reading Tree program are determined based on a number of factors, including the complexity of the vocabulary, the sentence structure, and the overall difficulty of the reading material. The levels are carefully designed to ensure that children are challenged while still being able to read with confidence and understanding.

How to determine your child’s reading level

Determining your child’s reading level is crucial in helping them progress and advance in their reading skills. There are several ways to determine your child’s reading level.

One method is to use a reading-level assessment tool. These tools are often available online or through your child’s school. They usually involve a series of reading comprehension questions that are designed to determine your child’s reading level. The results will give you a better idea of which level of reading material is appropriate for your child.

Another way to determine your child’s reading level is to observe their reading habits. Do they struggle with words, or do they read fluently? Are they able to comprehend what they are reading? These observations can help you gauge your child’s current reading level and assess whether they need additional support or can advance to a higher level.

Additionally, you can consult with your child’s teacher or school librarian. They are trained to assess children’s reading levels and can provide you with valuable insights and recommendations for age-appropriate reading material.

Overall, determining your child’s reading level is an essential first step in helping them develop strong reading skills. With the right level of reading material, your child can build confidence and a love for reading that will last a lifetime.

How to help your child progress to the next level

Helping your child progress to the next level of the Oxford Reading Tree can be an exciting challenge. The best way to do this is to build on the knowledge your child already has and help them practice with books at their current level.

Start by reading with your child every day and encourage them to read on their own as well. You can also help your child by asking questions about the story and discussing the characters and plot. This will not only help them develop their reading skills but also their comprehension and critical thinking abilities.
Another way to help your child progress is to introduce them to new vocabulary words and encourage them to use these words in their everyday conversations. This will help them build a stronger vocabulary and improve their reading skills.


It’s important to remember that progress takes time and practice. Don’t rush your child to move on to the next level before they are ready. Keep encouraging them and celebrate their progress along the way. With patience, practice, and guidance, your child will soon be ready to move up to the next level of the Oxford Reading Tree.

Word Counts and Difficulty – English Syllabus Guru

Word Counts and Difficulty – English Syllabus Guru

Book Bands 1-6 (Pink to Lime) have short sentences and simple vocabulary. As the levels progress, sentences become more complex, vocabulary expands, and word counts increase.

Sample Books for Each Level

When it comes to choosing a book for your child, it can be challenging to determine which level is suitable for their reading level. The Oxford Reading Tree series offers a variety of levels that cater to different reading abilities, making it easier for parents to choose the appropriate one. To give you an idea of the books offered at each level, we’ve compiled a list of sample books for each Oxford Reading Tree level.

The Oxford Reading Tree Level system is designed to help children improve their reading skills with a range of books that increase in difficulty as they progress through the levels.

Here is an overview of each Oxford Reading Tree level and what to expect:

LevelsLevel-appropriate Books
Level 1These books are designed for children who are just starting to read. They contain short, simple sentences and basic vocabulary.
First Words
At Home
Kipper’s Alphabet I-Spy

Level 2These books are slightly more challenging than level 1. They contain longer sentences and introduce new vocabulary.
The Tip Top Tip
Floppy Did This!
Cats
Level 3These books are for children who are starting to gain confidence in their reading ability. They contain longer stories and more complex sentence structures.
The Egg Hunt
At the Park
The Sing Song
Level 4These books are for children who are starting to read independently. They contain longer stories with more complex plots.
The Camcorder
Shopping with Mum
The Go-Kart
Level 5These books are for children who are becoming more confident readers. They contain longer, more complex stories with more challenging vocabulary.
Pack of Lies
The Outing
The Missing Necklace
Level 6These books are for children who are reading fluently. They contain longer stories with more complex plots and themes.
The Treasure Chest
The Broken Roof
The Flying Carpet
Level 7These books are for children who are reading confidently and independently. They contain longer, more complex stories with challenging vocabulary.
Dolphin Rescue
The Secret Shampoo
The Lost Voice
Level 8These books are for children who are reading fluently and with good understanding. They contain longer stories with more complex plots and themes.
The Rainbow Machine
The Motorbike
The Kidnappers
Level 9These books are for children who have built good reading comprehension and interpretation. They contain complex stories with more complex plots and themes.
The Big Breakfast
The Broken Bridge
The Broken Glasses
Level 10These books are for children who are reading vastly and with good background knowledge. They contain more extended stories with more difficult plots and themes.
The Dragon Tree
The Quest
The Shadow
Table of Levels-appropriate Books

By understanding the different levels of the Oxford Reading Tree system, parents can choose books that are appropriate for their child’s reading level and help them improve their reading skills.

Remember, these are only a few samples of the books available at each level. Depending on your child’s reading level, they may find some books easier or more difficult than others. The best way to determine which level is right for your child is to have them read a few pages of a book and see how well they comprehend the text.

Benefits of using Oxford Reading Tree for reading development

The Oxford Reading Tree series is a structured reading program specifically designed to help children learn how to read. This program has been developed by reading experts and is based on the latest research on how children learn to read, making it an effective tool for parents and educators alike.
One of the primary benefits of using the Oxford Reading Tree series is that it is organized into levels that are carefully designed to match a child’s reading ability. This means that children are able to progress at a pace that is appropriate for them, which can help to build their confidence and keep them motivated to continue reading.

Moreover, the series covers a wide range of topics and genres, which helps to keep children engaged and interested in their reading. The stories and characters are also carefully crafted to be relatable and engaging, which can help to foster a love of reading in children from an early age.

Another benefit of using the Oxford Reading Tree series is that it is widely used in schools and is a recognized tool for reading development. This means that children who use this program are more likely to be well-prepared for the reading demands of school, which can help to set them up for success in their academic careers.

Overall, the Oxford Reading Tree series is a highly effective tool for reading development that offers many benefits to children and parents alike. Whether you are a parent looking to support your child’s reading development at home or an educator looking for an effective reading program for your classroom, the Oxford Reading Tree series is an excellent choice.

Tips for parents to support their child’s reading progress

As a parent, supporting your child’s reading progress is crucial to their growth and development. Here are some tips to help:

  1. Read with your child daily: Reading with your child every day can make a big difference in their progress. Take turns reading aloud and ask questions about the story to encourage comprehension.
  2. Make reading fun: You can make reading fun by using silly voices, creating a cozy reading nook, or acting out the story. This will encourage your child to look forward to reading time.
  3. Provide a variety of reading materials: Give your child access to a variety of reading materials such as books, magazines, and newspapers. This will help broaden their interests and keep them engaged.
  4. Celebrate progress: Celebrate your child’s progress and achievements by praising their efforts and successes. This will boost their confidence and encourage them to keep reading.
  5. Set a routine: Setting a regular reading routine can help establish good reading habits. Choose a time and place for reading each day, and make it a part of your child’s daily routine.

Remember, every child learns at their own pace. Be patient and supportive, and your child will make progress with time and practice. With these tips, you can help your child become a confident and successful reader.

Additional resources for reading support

Popularity of Oxford Reading Tree – English Syllabus Guru

Popularity of Oxford Reading Tree – English Syllabus Guru

Over 100 million children worldwide have learned to read with the Oxford Reading Tree. Widely used in schools and libraries in the UK and other countries. (Education and Training Foundation)

There are many additional resources available to support your child’s reading at home. These resources can be used independently or in conjunction with the Oxford Reading Tree books. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Reading apps: There are many reading apps available that offer a variety of activities to help children with their reading skills. Some popular ones include Reading Eggs, Teach Your Monster to Read, and Starfall.
  2. Phonics games: Phonics is a key component of learning to read. There are many phonics games available online that can help reinforce phonics skills in a fun and engaging way. Some popular ones include Phonics Bloom, Topmarks, and Teach Your Monster to Read.
  3. Reading aloud: Reading aloud to your child is one of the most effective ways to help them develop their reading skills. It can help improve their vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency. It also provides an opportunity for bonding and shared experiences.
  4. Library resources: Your local library is a great resource for books, audiobooks, and other materials that can help support your child’s reading. Many libraries also offer reading programs and activities for children.
  5. Online reading resources: There are many websites that offer free online books and reading resources for children. Some popular ones include Oxford Owl, Reading Rockets, and Storyline Online.

By utilizing these additional resources, you can provide your child with the support and encouragement they need to become confident and successful readers.

Conclusion and final thoughts on using Oxford Reading Tree for your child’s reading development.

In conclusion, the Oxford Reading Tree program is a fantastic resource for parents and teachers alike who are looking to help their children develop strong reading skills. With over 800 books and 30 levels to choose from, there is a wide range of materials available to cater to every child’s reading level and interests.

One of the program’s strengths is that it is designed in a way that provides a gradual progression in reading difficulty, making it easier for children to build their confidence and reading skills. The books are also engaging, with colorful illustrations and relatable characters that make them fun and enjoyable to read.

Parents can use the Oxford Reading Tree program as a tool to help their children develop strong reading habits and a love for books. By reading with their child, asking questions, and providing feedback, parents can encourage their child to actively engage with the story and develop critical reading skills.

Overall, we highly recommend the Oxford Reading Tree program as a valuable resource for parents and teachers who are looking to support their child’s reading development. By using this program and taking a consistent approach to reading, parents can help their children build a strong foundation for a lifelong love of reading.

We hope you found our comprehensive guide to the Oxford Reading Tree levels helpful. We know it can be overwhelming to choose the right level for your child, and we wanted to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. Remember that every child is different, so it’s essential to keep their individual needs and abilities in mind when selecting a level. With the knowledge gained from this guide, you can now confidently choose the right level for your child and help them achieve their full reading potential. Happy reading!


Oxfor Reading Tree Levels FAQs

1. What are Oxford Reading Tree levels?

Oxford Reading Tree levels are a set of graded reading levels used to assess a child’s reading proficiency. They are widely used in the UK and other countries as a benchmark for evaluating a child’s reading ability.

2. How are Oxford Reading Tree levels determined?

Oxford Reading Tree levels are determined by a child’s ability to read and comprehend text at a specific level. The levels are graded from 1-20, with level 1 being the easiest and level 20 being the most difficult.

3. What are some benefits of using Oxford Reading Tree levels?

Using Oxford Reading Tree levels can help parents and teachers assess a child’s reading ability, monitor their progress, and provide appropriate reading materials to match their level. It can also help identify any areas of weakness that may need to be addressed.

4. How do I know what level my child is on?

To determine your child’s Oxford Reading Tree level, you can have them take a reading assessment, which can be administered by a teacher or reading specialist. Alternatively, you can use a leveled book set, which includes books at various levels and can help you gauge your child’s reading ability.

5. What types of books are available at each Oxford Reading Tree level?

There are a wide variety of books available at each Oxford Reading Tree level, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. The books are designed to gradually increase in difficulty as children progress through the levels.

6. Are Oxford Reading Tree levels used in all schools?

Oxford Reading Tree levels are widely used in the UK and other countries, but they may not be used in all schools. Some schools may use alternative reading level systems or assessments.

7. Can children progress through Oxford Reading Tree levels at different rates?

Yes, children can progress through Oxford Reading Tree levels at different rates. Some children may move quickly through the levels, while others may take longer. It’s important to focus on each child’s individual progress rather than comparing them to others.

8. What if my child is struggling to progress through the levels?

If your child is struggling to progress through the Oxford Reading Tree levels, it may be helpful to speak with their teacher or a reading specialist. They can provide additional support and resources to help your child improve their reading skills.

By Waqas Sharif

Mr. Waqas Sharif is an English Language Teaching (ELT) Professional, Trainer, and Course Instructor at a Public Sector Institute. He has more than ten years of Eng Language Teaching experience at the Graduate and Postgraduate level. His main interest is found in facilitating his students globally He wishes them to develop academic skills like Reading, Writing, and Communication mastery along with Basics of Functional Grammar, English Language, and Linguistics.

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