Scholars explore the animal kingdom with help from two texts, Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey and A Bed for the Winter by Karen Wallace. The literature and informational text set the learning stage for thoughtful discussion and hands-on activities. Pupils make a mask resembling their favorite wild animal, build a home for a toy or care for their babies, and observe animals at home, outside, or on a show.

Concepts

animals, reading, responding to reading, responding to literature, informational texts, children's literature

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Instructional Ideas

• Have bags ready for families who request work while away from school
• Conduct the lesson in class; go over whole-class portions, then finish in small group rotations during ELA

Classroom Considerations

• Requires two texts—Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey and A Bed for the Winter by Karen Wallace
• The lesson is written for teachers and librarians to create a learning opportunity designed for at-home use
• Copies look best in color

Pros

• Provides a variety of activities that boost engagement
• Builds a connection between reading literature, nonfiction, and science

Cons

• None

Common Core

RL.K.1 RI.K.1