Halloween reading comprehension mystery for KS2, developing retrieval, vocabulary, inference and evidence skills through an engaging spooky investigation.

The Witch’s Missing Potion is a fun Halloween themed reading comprehension resource designed for Key Stage 2 pupils. Children read an illustrated story before working through six themed comprehension activities to gather clues and solve the mystery of the missing potion.

Cauldron 1 focuses on retrieval, encouraging pupils to locate information explicitly stated in the text.

Cauldron 2 develops vocabulary skills through context, synonyms, word meanings and appropriate word choices.

Cauldron 3 focuses on inference. Pupils consider characters’ thoughts, feelings and actions and support their ideas with evidence from the text.

Cauldron 4 asks pupils to decide whether statements are true, false or not stated, encouraging careful reading and evidence checking.

Cauldron 5 introduces the suspects. Pupils read character statements, retrieve key information and compare evidence to investigate what may have happened.

Cauldron 6 brings the investigation together. Pupils identify who took the potion, where they were, why it happened and which evidence supports their conclusion.

An additional challenge provides an opportunity for creative writing by asking pupils to predict what might happen next.

This resource is suitable for whole class guided reading, independent comprehension, paired work, small groups, literacy lessons, homework and Halloween activities.

Completed answer pages are included for easy marking, self assessment or whole class feedback.

Designed primarily for KS2 in England, the resource also supports relevant literacy skills within the Curriculum for Wales and Scotland’s Curriculum for Excellence.