Thursday, May 30, 2013

The Great Kapok Tree - Picture Book for Upper Elementary

Grades 4-5 


While trying to chop down a Kapok tree in the Amazon Rain Forest a young man naps , during his nap  various animals of the forest whisper why the Kapok tree is so important to them in hopes of convincing him to leave the Kapok tree alone. This story supports the Social Justice Element #5 Raising Awareness introducing children to the topic of deforestation and natural habitats as well as creates awareness about preserving trees and animals. I would use this book in my classroom with younger students as a read aloud interactively or as a shared reading activity to provide extended exposure to the content of the books and the vocabulary used. 

2 comments:

  1. Love this book! Especially important with raising awareness and to be mindful of what we have and that things don't just grow on trees. Sometimes we don't realize that our actions affect the plants and animals.

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  2. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this story. I have read it with children who have loved it even more. I love the predictable elements of it, as well as the art. It is a great story for understanding the rainforest and the impact we have on it. Great choice!

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