November English Reading Challenge – 3 Short Autumn Stories to Improve Your English
Introduction
November is the perfect month to slow down, enjoy cosy indoor activities and read! Reading is a fantastic way to improve your vocabulary, understand sentence structures and learn natural English expressions.
In this challenge, you’ll find 3 short autumn-themed stories, each with:
- New vocabulary words
- Comprehension questions
- Discussion or writing prompts
By the end, you’ll not only practise reading but also writing and speaking about the season.
Story 1: “A Rainy November Morning”
Summary:
Sophie wakes up to a grey, rainy morning. She makes a cup of tea, looks out at the wet streets and notices the colourful autumn leaves. Despite the rain, she enjoys the calm and decides to take a short walk with her umbrella.
Vocabulary:
- drizzle – light rain
- gloomy – dark, sad, or depressing
- puddle – a small pool of water
- cosy – comfortable and warm
- umbrella – a tool to stay dry in the rain
Comprehension Questions:
- What was the weather like when Sophie woke up?
- How did she feel about the rainy morning?
- What did Sophie take with her on her walk?
Writing Prompt:
Write 3-4 sentences describing a rainy day in your town using at least 2 of the new vocabulary words.
Story 2: “The Cosy Evening”
Summary:
After a long day at work, James returns home. He lights a candle, puts on his favourite sweater and curls up with a book by the fireplace. Outside, the wind blows leaves across the street, but inside, James feels warm and happy.
Vocabulary:
- curl up – to sit or lie comfortably
- fireplace – a place where you can make a fire in a room
- sweater – a warm piece of clothing
- breeze – a gentle wind
- cosy up – make yourself comfortable and warm
Comprehension Questions:
- What does James do after coming home from work?
- What makes him feel cosy inside?
- What is happening outside while James reads?
Writing Prompt:
Describe your ideal cosy evening in November. Use at least 3 vocabulary words from this story.
Story 3: “A Walk in the Park”
Summary:
Lena takes her dog, Max, to the park. The leaves are golden and red, crunching under their feet. Birds fly above and the sun shines through the branches. They see a few other people enjoying the autumn day and Lena feels grateful for the simple pleasures of the season.
Vocabulary:
- golden leaves – leaves that have turned yellow or orange in autumn
- crunch – the sound leaves make when walked on
- branches – parts of a tree
- grateful – feeling thankful
- simple pleasures – small things that make you happy
Comprehension Questions:
- What season is it in the story?
- What sounds and sights does Lena notice in the park?
- How does Lena feel during the walk?
Writing Prompt:
Write a short paragraph describing your favourite outdoor activity in autumn. Use at least 2 new words from the vocabulary list.
Conclusion
Reading is a fun way to practise English and explore autumn imagery and expressions. By completing this challenge, you’ll:
- Learn new words for weather, feelings and activities
- Improve reading comprehension
- Practise writing and self-expression
Tip: Try reading the stories aloud to practise pronunciation and intonation.
