Picture Book Activities
Our picture book activities provide resources that specifically compliment trade book titles. If you need a copy of the book, click the Amazon link and follow instructions to purchase. I have also provided a link to a read aloud of each book. For the picture book activities, click the purchase button under the activities and you will be directed to my "Teachers Pay Teachers" pay to complete your transaction.
After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up A Dan Santat- Have you ever wondered what happened to Humpty after the he fell off the wall? Well this story tells us just that! It is also a great story for teaching kids about not giving up.
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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Included in this set (total of 8 pages):
*2 cover and copyright pages *1 cause and effect activity page plus 1 answer key page *2 character pages (one male/one female) to use as part of the overcoming fear activity *1 sequencing activity plus 1 answer key page This can be used whole group, small group or independently depending upon the purpose and student abilities. It can be used in its entirety or selected pieces can be used to fit your specific academic needs. |
Alphabet Adventure by Audrey and Bruce Wood - The alphabet is in order and ready to join Charley at school. That is until little i loses his dot! Oh no! Fun alphabet story. Book 1 in a 3 book series.
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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Alphabet Mystery by Audrey and Bruce Wood - In this fun story, little x gets upset because he hardly ever gets used. Because he is upset, little x leaves and the other letters take off to search for him. Book 2 in a 3 book series.
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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Alphabet Rescue by Audrey and Bruce Wood - The lower case letters save the day when they fix an old fire truck just in time to save the letter making factory. Book 3 in a 3 book series.
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst - Ever have a really bad day. Well, join Alexander as endures gum in his hair, sitting in the middle of the backseat, third-best-friend status, no dessert at lunch, lima beans, railroad pajamas, and kissing on TV—all in one day!
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman - While mom is away searching for food, baby bird hatches. He then sets out to find his mom and refuses to give up. Read this story to see if baby bird is reunited with his mom.
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Baby Bear, Baby Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin, Jr. is a story with out a plot. Each page shows a different animal including baby bear, red fox, flying squirrel, mountain goat, blue heron, prairie dog, striped skunk, mule deer, rattlesnake, and a screech owl.
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A Bad Case of the Stripes by David Shannon is a story about Camille Cream who is insecure, so much so she worries about what the other kids at school think about her. Will her insecurities cause her to come down with a "bad case of the stripes"?
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Believe Me, Goldilocks Rocks! by Nancy Loewen - This fractured fairy tell is told by Little Bear, Goldilocks' bestie. He tells you his side of the story and what really happened that day.
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The Big Test by Julie Danneberg - Taking that big test can cause great anxiety for students. Knowing her students are ready for the test, Mrs. Hartwell turns to teaching them the most important skill of test taking - relax.
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Big foot Cinderrrrrella by Tony Johnston - is a twist to a traditional fairy tale, Cinderella. However, in this story, Bigfoot Prince sets out to find Bigfoot Princess, but the ugly step-sisters get in the way.
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Compare and Contrast - Using a Venn Diagram, students will compare and contrast the two stories of Cinderella and Big Foot Cinderrrrellla.
This activity can be completed whole group, in centers, or independently depending upon the age of the students and/or their abilities.This is a one page download ready to print and use. |
The Boy Who Changed The World by Andy Andrews is a story about a boy, Norman, who grew up on the family cornfield farm. Using his knowledge about agriculture, Norman changed the world. As part of this book, the stories of people such as George Washington Carver, Vice President Henry Wallace, others is shared. This story shares the idea that our smallest actions can have a great impact on others.
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Bubba the Cowboy Prince by Helen Ketteman - is a fractured fairy tale based on the traditional Cinderella story. However, in this story, Miz Lurleen saves Bubba from his wicked stepdaddy and mean, nasty stepbrothers to make him her Cowboy Prince.
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Click on the image above to access a read aloud of the story.
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Caps For Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina - is a fun story about a peddler who stops to take a nap under a tree. While asleep, some mischievous monkeys steal his hats. What does the peddler have to do to get his hats back from the monkeys?
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A Chair For My Mother by Vera B. Williams - is a story that shows how hard work and saving can pay off. After the fire, mom, daughter, and grandma no longer have a comfortable chair. So they save money and are finally able to go out to buy a new chair.
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Chester's Way by Kevin Henkes is a story about two friends, Chester and Wilson, who did everything together and always in the same way, that is, until Lily moved to the neighborhood.
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In addition, use the Kevin Henkes link to reach his official website.
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Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin, Jr. and John Archambault is a fun alphabet rhyming story where "a told b, and b told c, I'll meet you at the top of the coconut tree". Not a bad idea, until too many letters climb the tree.
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Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes is a story about a perfect little mouse who loves her name, that is, until she starts school.
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In addition, use the Kevin Henkes link to reach his official website.
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Click, Clack, Boo!: A Tricky Treat! by Doreen Cronin Farmer Brown plans for a quiet Halloween night, but the animals and critters are ready to celebrate.
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Click, Clack, Ho! Ho! Ho! by Doreen Cronin Farmer Brown is preparing for Christmas while Duck is up to mischief again. Can anyone save Christmas now?
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Click,Clack, Moo Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin is a fun story about Mr. Brown's cows who find an old typewriter. The real trouble starts when they start sending Mr. Brown notes. What will Mr. Brown do?
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Click, Clack, Moo: I Love You! by Doreen Cronin It's Valentine's Day on the farm and the party is just getting started when an unexpected guest arrives
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Click, Clack, Peep! by Doreen Cronin There's trouble on the farm once again, but this time it isn't Duck causing the problem. Who is going to get baby Duck to finally fall asleep?
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Click, Clack, Quack to School by Doreen Cronin In this story, the animals of Mr. Brown's farm are ready for a new adventure when they join Mr. Brown at the elementary school on Farm Day.
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Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett A fun story about the unusual weather pattern in a tiny town. It came three times a day at breakfast, lunch, and dinner and kept getting bigger over time. What is the town to do?
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A Color of His Own by Leo Lionni is a story about a chameleon who wants to be just one color like all the other animals. He decides to be green like the leaves, which works out well for him until the leaves start changing colors.
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Corduroy by Don Freeman is a story about a teddy bear sitting on a department store shelf with a missing button. After his unsuccessful nighttime adventure to find a button, he is bought by a young girl who gives Corduroy a happy ending.
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The Day Jimmy's Boa Ate the Wash by Trinka Hakes Noble In this story, its an ordinary class trip to the farm, except that Jimmy takes his pet boa constrictor with him.
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The Diary of a Fly by Doreen Cronin In this story, Fly's diary tells all about his first year of school and the many challenges he faces, including his 327 siblings. However, in the midst of it all, Fly dreams of being a superhero.
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The Diary of a Spider by Doreen Cronin is a sequel to the Diary of a Fly. In this story, Spider's diary tells about his daily adventures including going to gym class and Grandparent's Day.
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The Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin In this story, Worm's diary tells about his life and the fact that he lives with his parents, plays with his friends, never takes a bath, and has no legs...so he can't do the hokey pokey.
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Dinosaurs Before Dark by Mary Pope Osborne is the first book in a series of over 40 stories about a brother and sister who find a mysterious tree house that takes them on miraculous adventures to different times and places in history. In book #1, Dinosaurs Before Dark Jack and Annie travel to prehistoric times and must find their way home before dark. (Series - Magic Tree House)
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Do Unto Otters by Laurie Keller is a story about Mr. Rabbit who suddenly has new neighbors, the Otters. He's not sure if they will get along or even be friends. Mr. Owl advises Mr. Rabbit to treat the Otters as he would want them to him. Great story for beginning of the year.
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Dooby Dooby Moo by Doreen Cronin Duck and his friends are working together to win a talent show to win a trampoline! But first, something has to be done about Farmer Brown.
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Duck For President by Doreen Cronin Duck is upset with all of Farmer Brown's rules on the farm so he holds and election to take over. What's next, mayor, governor, even president?
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Enemy Pie by Derek Munson It was the perfect summer, that is, until Jeremy moved in next door and became the enemy. Dad helps fix the problem by baking an enemy pie. The only problem, in order for the enemy pie to work, you have to spend a whole day with your enemy first. Great book talk about getting along with others.
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Fancy Nancy by Jane O'Connor In this fun story, Nancy is an extraordinary girl who is all about extravagant clothes, words, decorations and such. When Fancy decides her family is boring, she holds a class for them about fanciness.
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Fancy Nancy Vocabulary Picture Cards
Includes a total of 9 pages - 2 title and copyright pages, 1 suggested use of materials page, 1 definition page, and 11 picture card pages. Two sets of picture cards: 1 set includes includes two vocabulary picture cards per page and 1 set includes smaller pictures cards with 4 per page. All pages are 8 1/2" X 11". (Fancy Nancy Book is sold separately.) Printing Suggestion: Print in Color and on Card Stock; them laminate for durability. |
First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg Ever been nervous about the first day of school, about not knowing anyone? Sarah Jane Hartwell felt the same way, but the only difference is Mrs. Hartwell is the teacher. A fun story for the first day of school!
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Fly Away Home by Eve Bunting A homeless boy who lives in an airport with his father, moving from terminal to terminal trying not to be noticed, is given hope when a trapped bird finally finds its freedom. Fly Away Home deals with the issue of homelessness. The story ends with hope that they will be able to flee from their current situation.
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Frederick by Leo Lionni Frederick is a field mouse. While the other field mice are preparing for the winter by gathering up food, Frederick is gathering rays from the sun, a rainbow of colors, and marvelous words. The other mice think Frederick is lazy, but when the winter food runs out, Frederick has a special surprise for the other mice.
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Giggle, Giggle, Quack by Doreen Cronin When Farmer Brown goes on vacation, he asks his brother Bob to take care of the farm. But before leaving, he warns Bob to watch out for Duck, he's trouble. Fun story that follows Click, Clack Moo, Cows that can Type.
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Gingerbread Baby by Jan Brett When the oven opened, instead of the Gingerbread Boy, out jumped Gingerbread Baby. He is so fast that nobody can catch him. Will he ever meet his match? This is a great story for sequencing of events and clever ending.
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Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae Gerald, the Giraffe, wants nothing more than to dance, but with his crooked knees and thin legs, it's harder for him than one might think. When Gerald gets some encouraging words from an unlikely friend, he learns to dance to his own tune and amazes all his friends. (Character Building)
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The Girl Who Never Mistakes by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein Beatrice Bottomwell has never made a mistake...not even once. That is, until the day she makes a huge mistake in front of everyone. A great story for character building and helping students understand it is okay to make mistakes. (Character Building)
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The Giving Tree is a story about a little boy and a tree. They enjoyed life together when the boy was young, but as the boy grew, things changed.
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Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown is a story about child saying good night to everything around the room. "Goodnight room. Goodnight moon. Goodnight cow jumping over the moon. Goodnight light, and the red balloon..." Although this story, doesn't have a plot, it is a great story to for students to use to compare to their nighttime routines. Students can sequence what they do before they go to bed each night. (Sequence)
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Grace for President is a fun story about a girl named Grace. Surprised there has never been a girl president, Grace sets off to change that. She begins by running in the mock election at school.
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This election unit is developed around the book "Grace for President" and includes 19 printable pages including the cover and copyright pages, suggested activities, and resources for completing the activities.
The activities in this unit include creating a foldable around election vocabulary words, a Venn Diagram to compare the Democrats and Republicans, a map of the United States to document electoral votes, voting cards for each state, and ballet form. |
Grandfather's Journey by Allen Say is a story about a young man who longs to live in two different countries, the one of his youth and the one where he started his life as a young man. A great story to use when talking about immigration and different cultures around the world.
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Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss “Do you like green eggs and ham?” asks Sam-I-am in the beloved Dr. Seuss story. In a house or with a mouse? In a boat or with a goat? On a train or in a tree? Sam keeps asking persistently. In this fun story, the list of places to enjoy green eggs and ham, and friends to enjoy them with, gets longer and longer. (Rhyme)
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The Hat by Jan Brett In this story, Nicki drops his white mitten in the snow, but doesn't realize it. One by one, woodland animals find it and crawl in; first, a curious mole, then a rabbit, a badger and others, each one larger than the last. Finally, a big brown bear is followed in by a tiny brown mouse and what happens next makes for a wonderfully funny climax. (Authory Study - Jan Brett; Sequence)
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Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud This is a great story about how our actions have an impact on others. Each of us have an invisible bucket that follows us around throughout the day. Our interactions with others can either help "fill" or take away from their bucket. Are you a bucket filler? This story teaches young readers valuable lessons about giving, sharing, and caring. (Character Building)
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Hedgie's Surprise by Jan Brett When the little Tomten starts stealing Henny's eggs, but Hedgie comes up with a clever idea to help Henny keep her eggs. Watch the video below to meet one of Jan Brett's pet hedgies and watch as she shows you how to draw a picture of one. (Author Study - Jan Brett)
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In this short video, the author, Jan Brett, introduces the inspiration behind her book The Hat.
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If You Give a Cat a Cupcake by Laura Numeroff In this fun story, find out what happens when you give a cat a cupcake. He'll ask for some sprinkles to go with it. When you give him the sprinkles, he might spill some on the floor. Cleaning up will make him hot, so you'll give him a bathing suit . . . (Book Study - If You Give a Mouse...; Sequencing)
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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If You Give a Dog a Donut by Laura Numeroff In this fun story, find out what happens when you give a dog a donut. First he’ll ask for some apple juice to go with it. When you give him the juice, he’ll drink it all up. Then, before you can say “Woof” . . . Dog is off on a backyard adventure! (Book Study - If You Give a Mouse...; Sequencing)
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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If You Give a Moose a Muffin by Laura Numeroff If a big hungry moose comes to visit, you might give him a muffin to make him feel at home. If you give him a muffin, he'll want some jam to go with it. When he's eaten all your muffins, he'll want to go to the store to get some more muffin mix. (Book Study - If You Give a Mouse...; Sequencing)
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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If You Give a Mouse a Brownie by Laura Numeroff Remember the mouse from the story If You Give a Mouse a Cookie? Well, he's back this time he’s taking on a new adventure in If You Give a Mouse a Brownie. Because "If you give a mouse a brownie, he’s going to ask for some ice cream to go with it. When you give him the ice cream, he’ll probably ask you for a spoon. He’ll start drumming on the table. Drumming will get him so excited he’ll want to start a band. . . . (Book Study - If You Give a Mouse...; Sequencing)
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff What would you do if a hungry little mouse showed up on your doorstep? You might want to give him a cookie. And if you give him a cookie, he'll ask for a glass of milk. He'll want to look in a mirror to make sure he doesn't have a milk mustache, and then he'll ask for a pair of scissors to give himself a trim... (Book Study - If You Give a Mouse... Sequencing)
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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If You Give a Pig a Pancake by Laura Numeroff If you give a pig a pancake, she'll want some syrup to go with it. You'll give her some of your favorite maple syrup, and she'll probably get all sticky, so she'll want to take a bath. She'll ask you for some bubbles. When you give her the bubbles... (Book Study - If You Give you a Mouse...; Sequencing)
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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If You Take a Mouse to the Movies by Laura Numeroff If you take a mouse to the movies, he'll ask you for some popcorn. If you give him the popcorn, he'll want to string it all together. Then he'll want to hang it on a Christmas tree. (Book Study - If You Give a Mouse...; Sequencing; Holiday - Christmas)
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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The Important Book by Margaret Wise Brown In this story, the author guides children to think about everyday things, such as an apple or a spoon, and why they are important.
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Interrupting Chicken by David Ezra Stein When it's chicken’s bedtime, Papa reads a story. But the chicken can’t help herself and keeps interrupting her Papa while he is ready. Whether the tale is Hansel and Gretel or Little Red Riding Hood or even Chicken Little, she jumps into the story to save its hapless characters. But when it is little chicken’s turn to tell a story, will her yawning Papa make it to the end of the story without falling asleep?
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The Jolly Postman and Other Peoples Letter by Janet & Allan Ahlberg is a story set in a time before email. Throughout the story the jolly postman delivers letters to the different fairy tale characters. As a fun story that connects different fairy tales through the letters they send one another, it is perfect read aloud to use when teaching the skill of letter writing. (Topics - fairy tales, letter writing)
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Julius the Baby of the World by Kevin Henkes Lilly was not happy about her new baby brother, Julius. In fact, she thought Julius was disgusting, and if he was a number, he would be zero. But when Cousin Garland dares to criticize Julius, Lilly bullies her into loudly admiring Julius as the baby of the world. (Author Study - Kevin Henkes; Character Building - Sibling Rivalry)
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In addition, use the Kevin Henkes link to reach his official website.
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Kate and the Beanstalk by Mary Pope Osborne Kate sets out to sell the cow and ends up trading it for a handful of magic beans. Her angry mother throws the beans out the window where a beanstalk grows overnight. When Kate climbs the beanstalk, she meets an old woman who tells her about a monstrous giant. So Kate sets out to steal back from the giant the golden egg-laying hen, the bag of gold coins, and that talking harp, but what Kate finds instead is surprising. (Fractured Fairy Tales)
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The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn is a story about Chester the raccoon. School is starting, and Chester is afraid to go off to school. However, to ease his fears, mother raccoon shares the family secret of the Kissing Hand. A great story to read to young students as they start school for the first time. (Topic - first day of school)
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Kitten'a First Full Moon by Kevin Henke is a story about a young kitten. It is Kitten's first full moon, and when she sees it she thinks it is a bowl of milk in the sky. And she wants it. Does she get it? (Author Study - Kevin Henke)
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Last Day Blues by Julie Danneberg A sequel to the First Day Jitters, Mrs. Hartwell and the class make to the last day of school. But the students worry that Mrs. Hartwell will miss them while they are gone for summer vacation. So they come up with a plan.
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Lilly's Big Day by Kevin Henkes When Lilly's teacher announces that he is getting married, Lilly has big plans to be the flower girl. However, she is filled with disappointment when she finds out Mr. Slinger's niece will be the flower girl. In the end, her role becomes even more important making it Lilly's big day! (Author Study - Kevin Henkes)
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In addition, use the Kevin Henkes link to reach his official website.
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Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes Lilly loves everything about school, especially her cool teacher, Mr. Slinger. She even wants to be a teacher when she grows up. That is until she takes her purple plastic purse to school and gets it taken away by Mr. Slinger. A great story to share with students who love to bring their favorite items to school with them. (Author Study - Kevin Henkes)
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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Little Lumpty - tells the story of Little Lumpty who climbs the same high wall as Humpty Dumpty, but years later. What will become of this little character?
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The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry, and Big Hungry Bear by Don Wood - In this fun story, Little Mouse is determined to save his freshly picked, red, ripe strawberry from the big hungry bear, no matter what!
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The Little Red Hen by Lucinda McQueen None of her lazy friends willing to help the little red hen plant, harvest, or grind wheat into flour, but all are eager to eat the bread she makes from it. (Sequence; Folktale)
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The Little Red Hen (Makes a Pizza) by Philomen Sturges In this twist to the original folktale, the little red hen spies a can of tomato sauce in her cupboard and decides to make a pizza. With no help from her friends the duck, the dog, and the cat, the little red hen goes through the steps of making a pizza-shopping for supplies, making the dough, and adding the toppings. (Sequence; Folktale; Compare and Contrast to original story of the Little Red Hen)
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LonPoPo - A Red Riding Hood Story From China by Ed Young This story is a Chinese version of "Little Red Riding Hood". Different than the original fable, in which Little Red Riding Hood is the only child who meets the wolf, Lon Po Po has three children who encounter the wolf. (Fable; Compare and Contrast with the original Little Red Riding Hood)
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This activity set is designed to be used with the various versions of Little Red Riding Hood and focuses the characteristics of fairy tales.
Included in this set (total of 14 pages):
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The Lorax by Dr. Seuss is great for an Earth Day lesson. In this story, students learn how just one small see, or one small child can make a difference in saving our Earth. (Earth Day)
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Love You Forever by Robert Munsch This story shows the unconditional love a mother and son have for one another. A great story to share with students as they prepare cards/gifts for Mother's Day. (Holiday - Mother's Day)
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Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready For Kindergarten by Joseph Slate It's the first day of kindergarten in Miss Bendergarten's class. Everyone is getting ready to go to school. A great story to read on the first day of kindergarten. (Special Days - First day of school; Rhyming)
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Miss Nelson Has a Field Day by James Marshall The Smedley Tornadoes are the worst school football team in the whole state.. That is, until the substitute, Miss Viola Swamp, arrives to shape up the team with her unique brand of coaching. (Book Study - Miss Nelson)
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Miss Nelson is Back by Harry Allard and James Marshall When their teacher, Miss Nelson, has to go away for a week, the kids in Room 207 plan to act up. When Mr. Blandsworth fills in and bores the students to death, the students hatch a plan to change things. But Miss Nelson finds out and substitute Miss Viola Swamp shows up to get things under control. (Book Study - Miss Nelson)
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Miss Nelson is Missing by Harry Allard and James Marshall The kids in Room 207 were misbehaving again, with spitballs stuck to the ceiling and paper airplanes whizzing through the air. They were the worst behaved class in the whole school. They had no respect for their teacher, Miss Nelson, but then the substitute, Miss. Viola Swamp, arrives and the students regret their behaviors. (Book Study - Miss Nelson; Topic - Classroom Behaviors)
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The Mitten by Jan Brett Nicki drops his mitten in the snow without knowing. In order to stay warm, the woodland animals begin climbing into the mitten, one by one, each larger than last. Just how many animals can fit into that mitten?
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The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires This story is about a young girl and her dog. She is determined to make the most magnificent thing, no problem. Until it is a problem and she decides to quit! But her furry friend won't let her quit. After a walk, she comes back to her project and makes it just right! A great story about never giving up!
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My Garden by Kevin Henkes is a story about a young girl who helps out in her mother’s garden, but in the garden of her imagination, there are chocolate rabbits, tomatoes as big as beach balls, flowers that change color, and seashells. How does your garden grow? (Author Study - Kevin Henkes; First Person Point of View)
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother by Patricia Polacco about a young girl who has an older red-headed brother who can do everything better than she can including run the fastest, climb the highest, and spit the farthest. Then one day, Patricia makes a wish upon a shooting star and things change, but not exactly the way she thought they would. (Author Study - Patricia Polacco)
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The Napping House Board Book by Audrey Wood On a rainy day, granny is snoring as she sleeps on her bed in her cozy room. One by one, others begin to join her, but just how many people can sleep in that one bed? This is a repetitive and predictable text providing students active engagement in the reading.
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Officer Buckle and Gloria is a story about Officer Buckle who is know to be boring when he visits kids at school telling them about safety. When Gloria, the dog, joins him, things quickly change.
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Oh, The Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss In this story, Dr. Seuss takes students soaring to high heights and seeing great sights to being left in a Lurch on a prickle-ly perch, He addresses life’s ups and downs with humor, verse, and illustrations all while encouraging readers to find the success within themselves. (Author Study - Dr. Seuss)
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Owen by Kevin Henkes Owen loves his blanket and takes it everywhere with him. But now he has a problem, he's getting ready to start school and he can't take his blanket with him. What will he do? A great story to share with students who might struggle with leaving at home something that is special to them. (Author Study - Kevin Henkes)
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Click on the image of the book to access a read aloud video of the story.
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Pancakes, Pancakes! by Eric Carle is a story about a young boy Jack that is looking forward to his old-fashion pancakes. But before Jack's mother can make the pancakes, she needs flour from the mill, an egg from the black he, milk from the spotted cow, and butter churned from fresh cream. Will it ever be time for breakfast and that large pancake? (Author Study - Eric Carle)
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Peter's Chair by Ezra Jack Keats is a story about a young boy, Peter, who has a new baby sister. He is upset when his parents paint his old baby furniture pink for his new little sister. There's one thing they haven't painted yet, though: his little blue chair. He'll do whatever it takes to save it—even run away. (Author Study - Ezra Jack Keats)
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Pickles to Pittsburgh Pickles to Pittsburgh is the sequel to Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs. In this story, Kate drifts off to sleep and, with her brother Henry as her copilot, they visit the land of Chewandswallow. A fantasy land of large foods all around them. A great follow-up activity for this story would be to have students create pictures from grandpa's trip to share with the kids. (Book Study - Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs)
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The Pout Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen is a story about a pout-pout fish who spreads his dreary-wearies all around under the ocean. The other underwater creatures try to get him to change is outlook, but he says that being a pout-pout fish is just who he is. That is until just the right creature comes along to change his perspective. (Rhymes;Character Building )
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Quick as a Cricket by Audrey Wood This short story is about a boy as he describes himself. "I'm as quick as a cricket, I'm as slow as a snail, I'm as small as an ant, I'm as large as a whale!" A great opportunity to help students appreciate their individualism and feeling good about who they are. Also a create resource to work with adjectives and figurative language. (Author Study - Audrey Wood; adjectives; figurative language)
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The Rabbit and the Turtle is a story about Rabbit and Turtle. One day, much to his surprise, Turtle is challenged to a race by Rabbit. How can Turtle possibly beat Rabbit? Great story to teach morals.
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The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister Rainbow fish is the most beautiful fish in the ocean with his shiny scales. He knows how beautiful he is and refuses to share his scales with the other fish. They soon decide to leave him alone. He realizes that not having anyone to admire his scales is no fun. What will he do? This story poses the moral that being selfish and unkind might leave you lonely, but it also provides an opportunity to discuss with students the idea of how much one should have to give in order make friends? (Character Building)
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Red Riding Hood by James Marshall In this story Little Red Riding Hood heads off to granny's house, but meets the wolf along the way. In this version of the story, both Granny and child are swallowed, then rescued intact by the hunter who kills the wolf. (Author Study - James Marshall; Fairy Tail; compare and contrast)
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Rosie's Walk by Pat Hutchins Rosie is out for a walk around the farm not knowing that the sly little fox is following her. Her journey leads fox into one little mishap after another.
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The Sandwich Swap by Queen Rania of Jordan Al Abdullah Lily and Salma are best friends until their differences get in the way. What will it take for them to put their differences aside to keep their friendship? In this story, students learn that friendship is more powerful than their differences.
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Stellaluna by Janell Cannon Stellaluna is a young fruit bat that is accidentally dropped into a bird's nest by her mother. She tries hard to fit into her adopted family, but struggles with it. The only time she feels like a bird is when she is flying. This story is a variation of The Ugly Duckling and would make for an opportunity to work on compare and contrasting two stories. (Compare and contrast; science - bats)
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Stone Soup by Ann Mcgovern In this story, a clever young man convinces an old woman that soup can be made from a stone. As the water boils, the young man shares how much better the soup would be with different ingredients. Before you know, a very tasty soup has been made, from a stone.
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Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola Strega Nona is source for potions, cures, and comfort in her small town. Big Anthony is supposed to watch over the house while Strega Nona goes to visit Strega Amelia, but instead he causes disaster when he recites the magic verse over the pasta pot.
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Swimmy by Leo Lionni Deep in the ocean there is a school of fish. They live in a world of wonders, however, when they encounter danger they become afraid to come out. Swimmy comes along and shows them how teamwork can help them beat the dangers around them. A great story about the power of teamwork.
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Sylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig Sylvester finds a pebble that makes wishes come true. But when Sylvester encounters a lion, he makes a wish that brings about unexpected consequences.
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Tacky the Penguin by Helen Luster is a story about a penguin that is a bit odd and annoys all the other penguins. That is, until he saves the day. (Book series - Tacky the Penguin)
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Ten Black Dots by Donald Crews Ever wonder what you can make with ten black dots. In this counting book, the author shares his ideas as he counts from one to ten. A fun book that encourages counting from one to ten and stimulates a student's creativity.
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The Teacher from the Black Lagoon by Mike Thaler It's the first day of school and Hubie faces his fear of his new teacher Mrs. Green. Will he survive? (Author Study - Mike Thaler; Book Study - Black Lagoon)
(The Crayon Box That Talked by Michael Letzig and Shane Derolf While at the store, a little girl overhears a box of crayons complaining about each other. So the little girl buys the box of crayons and takes them home to show them how important it is for them to work together in order to create something great. This is a great classbuilding story that demonstrates the importance of working together. (Rhyming; Teamwork)
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Thank You, Mr Falker by Patricia Polacco is a story about Patricia as a young girl, Trisha, who was good at things like painting and drawing. But when she looked at words on a page, they were just jumbled. Thanks to a very special teacher who recognized this little girl's dyslexia. Mr. Falker, encouraged her to overcome her reading disability. (Author Study - Patricia Polacco; Dyslexia)
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There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly by Pam Adams This book is based on the children's rhyme and song about an old woman who starts by swallowing a fly. The rhyme continues when the woman swallows continuously larger animals eventually swallowing a horse.
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This is a singing video of the book being read.
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The Three Bears by Paul Galdone The traditional story of a young girl Goldilocks who goes for a walk in the woods and comes upon the house of the the three Bears. When no one answers the door, Goldilocks lets herself in for some porridge and ultimately a nap, that is until the bears come home and find her sleeping. Believe Me, Goldilocks Rocks! tells another version of the story from Baby Bear's perspective and makes a great comparison story.
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The Three Billy Goats Gruff by Stephen Carpenter The classic folktale about three billy goats trying to cross a bridge. Unfortunately, there is a mean old troll living under the bridge wanting to capture the goats to eat. How will the goats trick the troll to get across the bridge?
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The Three Little Dassies by Jan Brett This story is a fun twist to The Three Little Pigs where three little dassies are looking for a "place cooler, less crowded, and a place safe from eagles" to build new homes in the red rock mountains. Unfortunately, the pesky eagle has different thoughts. How do the little dassies escape the bothersome eagle's scheme? Use this story to complete a comparison with the story The Three Little Pigs.
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The Three Little Pigs by James Marshall As the three little pigs venture out on their own, each builds a house, one of straw, one of sticks, and one of bricks. However, the pigs soon find themselves threatened by the big bad wolf.
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The Three Pigs is a unique version of the original story. As the pigs are attacked by the wolf, they leave their story and find other nursery rhymes and fairy tales. What to do??
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The Three Little Wolves and the Big Bad Pig by Eugene Trivizas In this twist to the story of The Three Little Pigs, the three little wolves set out into the world. They soon encounter the big bad pig who tries to knock down their houses, first a brick house, then concrete, followed by a house of armor plates. How will the wolves escape the demise of the big bad pig?
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The Three Snow Bears by Jan Brett In this story, a young Inuit girl comes upon an igloo, but no one is home. The young girl goes inside eventually falling asleep in Baby Bear's bed, taking a nap. What a surprise when the three bears come home. A fun story that can easily be used as a comparison with the original three bears.
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Thump, Quack, Moo by Doreen Cronin The farm is bustling with activity as everyone is getting ready for the annual Corn Maze Festival. What trouble is Duck up to this time?
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The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle is
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Tops and Bottoms by Janet Stevens Bear is lazy, but has lots of land. Hare is poor and has nothing but a hungry family. So Hare devises a plan to trick Bear out of his fresh food from the harvest. This book is unique in that the pages are turned from top to bottom instead of side to side.
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Town Mouse, Country Mouse by Jan Brett In this story, Town Mouse and Country Mouse each want to get away from their everyday lives, so they decide to switch homes. Their new lives plunge them each into unexpected adventures.
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The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka According to wolf, he was innocent. In fact, he claims that he was framed by the three little pigs when all he really wanted was some sugar. A fun story to use as a comparison to the original Three Little Bigs.
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The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle is a story about a brown spider who is busy spinning a web despite the distractions from the other farm animals. At the end of the story, the spider is able to show the other farm animals how her hard work produced a beautiful web. (Author Study - Eric Carle)
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Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle is a story about a caterpillar as it grows into a beautiful butterfly. (Author Study - Eric Carle; Science - caterpillar/butterfly, life cycle)
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New activity arriving soon!
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Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes Poor Wemberly worries about everything, morning noon, and night. She is especially worried about starting school. That is, until she makes a friend and realizes that school is just too much fun to worry about anything.
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In addition, use the Kevin Henkes link to reach his official website.
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Where Wild Things Are is a story about a boy named Max who dressed in his wolf suit is sent to bed early by his mom. But Max's bedroom turns into a far away land that takes him on an extraordinary adventure.
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A Wolf at the Door is a story about Little Bear, and other characters from favorite nursery rhymes, as they try to escape the wolf. Will Little Bear open the door to wolf?
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Beginning, middle, and end activity sheet - This activity sheet was created for students to demonstrate their understanding of the beginning, middle, and end of the story.
This activity sheet is recommended for a listening center or follow-up to a whole group read aloud. Includes 2 pages, one for the student and a page of suggested answers. |
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