For Parents
5 Books • 10 Stories
Start from not reading at all to confident, fluent reading.
The Ella and Mark 5-book series helps children learn to read through a clear, step-by-step approach. Each story introduces a small number of new words while reinforcing familiar words from earlier books. This gradual progression builds confidence, reading fluency, and comprehension over time. The stories reflect everyday Canadian experiences like going to school, camp, a park, a hockey rink and a ski hill.
Across 10 stories, children are introduced to 124 high-frequency words, carefully repeated to support early reading success.
Series Highlights
- Clear progression from single words to short paragraphs.
- Short, engaging stories based on relatable, everyday experiences.
- Supports independent reading and read-aloud learning.
- Includes free online reading games and printable flashcards.
- Perfect for home and early-literacy practice.
How to Use the Series
The Ella and Mark books work well for shared reading with an adult or for independent practice. Children benefit most when stories are reread multiple times, helping familiar words become automatic while new words are introduced gradually. This repeated reading builds confidence and makes reading more enjoyable. To encourage progress, use the printable reading tracker. After your child can read a story, colour a star together and watch their progress grow.
Printable Flashcards
Flashcards are available to support additional practice. The cards can be printed on standard 8.5 × 11-inch paper or cardstock. Each page is designed to be cut into four flashcards (40 pages total). When printing, open the PDF and select Actual Size. Story numbers are colour-coded, but all pages print clearly in black and white.
High-Frequency Word Coverage
The Ella and Mark series aligns with several widely used high-frequency and sight word lists commonly taught in Kindergarten and Grade 1 classrooms.
- 28 of the 40 Dolch Pre-Primer sight words
- 35 words from the Fry First 100 list
- 40 words from the Children’s Picture Book (CPB) First 100 Sight Words
- 28 words from the Oxford English Corpus (OEC) First 100
Who This Series Is For
Ideal for beginning readers in Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 2, as well as older children who benefit from additional practice and confidence building. The simple structure also supports English language learners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this series replace phonics instruction?
No. The Ella and Mark series is designed to complement phonics instruction by supporting automatic recognition
of high-frequency words. Phonics and sight word learning work together to build strong early reading skills.
Why are words repeated across multiple books?
Repetition helps children develop automatic word recognition. Words introduced in earlier books continue
to appear in later stories so children can practice, review, and build confidence over time.
Are there online resources to support the books?
Yes. Free online games are available to complement the series, including interactive flashcards,
matching games, and spelling activities. These resources provide additional practice in an engaging format
for home or classroom use.
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