K-3 Spanish & English Resources by Topic & Genre TOPIC: Animal Nonfiction Allen, N. (1999). En las orillas del Amazonas. Greenbay, WI: Charlesbridge Publishing This book is about traveling to the edge of the Amazon River with two photographers. They encounter howler monkeys, poison dart frogs, an anaconda, parrots, caiman and other animals. The pages have detailed illustrations and keep a child's interest well and support the reading material. I would use this book as a read aloud for comparison with Un Paseo Por El Bosque Lluvioso. I would have students complete a Venn Diagram to compare the two books. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008) Carle, E. (1994). La oruga Muy Hambrienta.New York, NY: Philomel Books. The story is about the butterfly cycle.A little caterpillar is born and everyday it eat sand eats until it is fat and ready to make a pupa for himself and turns into a big and beautiful butterfly.This is the perfect book to use to teach the butterfly cycle and to teach the days of the week and names of foods.It is also a pattern book which is great to use for repetition. I would like to create a matching game for the students to use to match the name of the fruits according to the days of the week the caterpillar ate them. Carrying caterpillars in the classroom and observing their metamorphosis would be a wonderful conjunction for this less. This fulfills Science standards. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)
Facklam, M. (2002). Insectos para el Almuerzo. Watertown, MA : Charlesbridge Publishing,
This book which is set in rhyme is a great book with large, detailed illustrations. It introduces how and why bugs eat each other. I would use this book as a shared reading for accountable talk and observation. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)
Lee, A. (2000). Coqui y sus amigos.Saint Paul, MN: Pangaea Publishing.
This bright and colorful book is about Puerto Rico’s frog El Coqui.It describes the importance and survival this special frog is to the island. It also features unusual creatures.This would be a great book to read aloud in use of looking at exotic animals. I would have students research an exotic animal from their native country to write about. This fulfills Science and Social Studies standards. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)
||
Pratt, K. (1992). Un Paseo por el Bosque Lluvioso. Nevada City, Ca: Dawn Publications. 15 year old author and illustrator Kristen Joy Pratt takes the reader through a wonderful introduction to the tropical rain forest of plants, animals, and people through the use of the alphabet. The book tells the story of an ant named XYZ, and his journey through the rainforest. The book has beautiful pictures and simple text that appeal to children in the primary grades. I would use this book as a read aloud to help introduce children to the wonders of the rain forest and the alphabet. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008) English Resources National Geographic (n.d.). Amazing Animals. Washington, D.C.Retrieved on August 6, 2008 from: http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/Animals/ This site is includes great streaming videos of different types of animals from around the world. It also includes beautiful photos and interesting facts about these animals. I chose this site because I have a Smartboard in my classroom which allows me to highly engage the students in an interactive search for the unit of study.Children can go up to the Smartboard and open up video and sound links.For example if they would like to listen to the sound El Coqui makes, or watch how a butterfly immerses from its pupa. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008) Professional Resources Bronwyn, C. (2003) Working With the Young English Language Learners.Washington, DC:U.S. Dept. of Education, Office of Educational Research and Improvement, National Library of Education. Retrieved on August 19, 2008 from: http://www.cal.org/resources/digest/0301coltrane.html This article discusses the importance it is for teachers to plan when teaching ELL’s.It is not just about teaching ELL’s how to speak English, it also about encouraging these children to learn through creativity and with deep meaning. That is, the need to incorporate different types of learning, such as social, tactile, emotional, as well as intellectual learning.This article is helpful in reminding me to allow children to become involved in a purposeful learning environment to address their social needs. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008) The University of the State of New York (2004). The teaching of Language Arts to Limited English Proficient/English Language Learners: Learning Standards for English as a Second Language. Albany, NYRetrieved on August 19, 2008 from: http://www.emsc.nysed.gov/biling/resource/ESL/02Early.pdf This web link is from the NYS Department of Education.It lists the standards required for ESL in the early childhood level. It showcases the following:
Learning Standards and Performance Indicators
Sample Classroom Tasks
Learning Experience
This is a good site to use as a reference guide when assessing my students’ work that will be displayed. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008) Goodman, K., Goodman, Y., & Flores, B. Reading in the Bilingual Classroom:Literacy and Biliteracy. Chapter 7. Washington, DC. National Clearinghouse for Bilingual Education (1979). Retrieved on August 19, 2008 from:http://www.ncela.gwu.edu/pubs/classics/reading/section-seven.htm This article discusses how a bilingual and biliterate curriculum should be designed.In a true bilingual/biliterate classroom a teacher must stress that language is learned and cannot be taught in a traditional sense. Teaching must be meaningful and functional in order for students to respond effectively. The article also discusses different content, methods, materials and assessments that can be useful. I personally enjoyed the organization factor of it. I am very keen on keeping the bilingual classroom well organized through signs, centers and bulletin boards.This article can give many ideas for a new bilingual teacher.Moreover, it reminded me of strategies that I already am using and strategies that I can add to my teaching. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)
Topic: Fairy Tales
Boada, F. (2004). The princess and the pea. San Francisco, CA: Chronicle Books LLC. This is a story about a prince that anted a bride. He went to great lengths to find a bride, but all his efforts were in vain. When he least expected it a young princess knocked on his door. She needed a place to stay. Unsure if she was really a princess, the queen prepared a test to identify if the young lady was truly a princess. The young lady passed the test, she was a real princess and she married the prince. This fairy tale is an excellent way to impart values and morals to students. It also lends itself to the topic of family. It is also a great way to teach fantasy and reality and sequencing. (Ines M., Summer2008)
Bosom, M. (1998). Rocitos de oro. Barcelona, Spain: Barron’s Educational series, Inc. This is a classic story with a twist. Goldilocks gets lost in the forest and ends up near the three little bear’s home. When the bears return home, they find her sleeping. The bears befriend Goldilocks and the little bear takes her to her house. Goldilocks and the baby bear build a lasting friendship and play together in the forest everyday. This story is great to use with other versions of Goldilocks. Students can compare and contrast different versions of the story. Students can also learn about family. They can learn about the different ways families interact. This version of Goldilocks is written in a form of a play, so children can act out the play, too.(Ines M., Summer2008)
Marshall, J. (1988). Ricitos Dorados y los tres osos. New York: Penguin Books This story is about a mischievous girl named Ricitos Dorados. Her mother sends her to the store and warns her against going through the woods because of bears. Ricitos Dorados disregards her mother’s warning and goes into the woods. While walking through the woods she stumbles across a home. She enters the home and drinks the porridge left on the table. The girl sits on chairs, and lies in beds. She falls asleep in one of the beds. The bears return home and find that the house is not the way they left it. They search their house to find the intruder sleeping. Ricitos Dorados is awakened and jumps out of the window. She was never seen again by the three bears. This book is good for teaching about family. It is also great for sequencing, comparing and contrasting different versions of the story. It is also great tool for writing. Students can change the ending of the story or write their own fairy tale.(Ines M., Summer2008)
San Souci, R. D. (1998). Cendrillon a caribbean Cinderella. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks Cendrillon is the Caribbean version to Cinderella. The book depicts a young Caribbean girl and her godmother. In the story, the young girl is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsister. The young girl finds comfort in her godmother- a maid. Cendrillon, wants to attend a ball but is forbidden by her mean stepmother. Her godmother guarantees her she would attend and makes her attendance to the ball a reality. She meets a young man and dances with him until a little before midnight. She looses a slipper and the prince searches to find the young lady that can fit the slipper. He eventually finds Cendrillon, they marry and live happily ever after. This book offers students a chance to learn about different cultures and about different types of family (nuclear, extended, etc). This book can be used to compare and contrast other versions of Cinderella. The book can also open dialect between children and their parents. Parents can share different versions of Cinderella stories they heard growing up.(Ines M., Summer2008)
Zemach, M. (1988). Los tres cerditos. New York: Marisol Libros Juveniles This story is also a classic. The wolf eats two of the three pigs. The third pig plays tricks on the wolf. The wolf is eventually angered and goes after the third pig. He enters the pig’s home through the chimney and falls into a pot of hot soup. The wolf is eaten by the third pig. With this version of the three little pigs, students can learn about matter. They can also learn about safety and different reading skills. (Ines M., Summer, 2008) Topic:Family
Chicky, ABC Teach. http://www.abcteach.com. 2000. Retrieved July 22, 2008 from http://123child.com/UBB/showthread.php?t=6250
This site contains a variety of activities that focus on family. There is one particular project where children can bring in pictures of their family and make a collage from it. This collage will then be laminated and be used as a placemat for the children’s snack time. This site also lists books, rhymes, and songs that can help in literacy building activities. There are math, science, literacy, and art lesson ideas that teach children about different members of their families. This website is helpful in creating lessons and giving ideas for center work. (Amaris M. Summer 2008)
Col, J. Enchanted Learning. http://www.EnchantedLearning.com 1996. Retrieved July 22, 2008 from http://www.enchantedlearning.com/themes/family.shtml
This website has many different print outs and templates for writing about family. It also offers creative ideas, such as making a family tree from a branching twig. It holds nursery rhymes and songs that can be used in a family thematic unit. It also has print outs of family member names in NL. This website provides many materials and ideas for lessons on family.(Amaris M. Summer 2008)
Flor Ada, A. (2004) Me Encantan los Saturdays y los domingos. New York, NY:Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing. Retrieved July 23, 2008 from http://www.delsolbooks.com/ilovesaturdaysydomingos.htm This book is about a young girl who enjoys Saturdays and Sundays because she visits with her grandparents. On Saturdays, she visits her European-American grandparents and Sundays she visits her Mexican-American grandparents. The book demonstrates the similarities and differences of the grandparents’ culture. This book is a great tool for demonstrating different cultural backgrounds as well as the similarities. (Sally M. Summer 2008)
Henkes, K & Miawer,T (1993) Julius, el Rey de la Casa, Hong Kong , Everest Publishing. Retrieved July 22, 2008 from http://www.amazon.com/Julius-Rey-Casa-Kevin-Henkes/dp/8424133560 .
This book is a story about the feelings Julius has when a new baby joins the family. At first Julius is upset because the new baby is getting all the attention. He then starts realizing that he is glad to have a baby sister. This book can be used to teach about feelings, family, and siblings. It can be used as a motivation for lessons and discussions about the people we have in our families and the way we feel when we are with them.(Amaris M. Summer 2008)
Jack Keats, E. & Fiol, M (1999) La silla de Pedro, New York Penguin young readers group. Retrieved July 22,2008 from http://www.amazon.com/silla-Pedro-Penguin-Ediciones/dp/0140566546 .
This book is about a boy named Peter who recieves a new baby into his family. His parents handed down Peter’s crib and craddle to the new baby. Peter decides to save his baby chair for himself and then realizes he has outgrown it. This book teaches about sibling and families as well as growing and sharing. This book can be used to start a discussion about the things we share with our family and the family members that we live with. (Amaris M. Summer 2008)
Lomas Garza, C. (1990) Cuadros de familia.San Francisco, CA: Children Book Press. Retrieved on July 23, 2008 from http://www.delsolbooks.com/familypictures.htm This book is the story of Carmen Lomas Garza’s childhood. The story is of her day to day experiences growing up in Kingsville, Texas focusing on different aspects of growing up in a Mexican American family, such as celebrating birthdays, making tamales, finding a hammerhead shark on the beach, picking cactus, going to a fair in Mexico, and confiding to her sister her dreams of becoming an artist. The book teaches about a having a strong sense of family and community. This book can be used for shared and independent writing activities about the special times shared with our family. (Sally M. Summer 2008) Lomas Garza, C. (1996). En Mi Familia.San Francisco, CA: Children's Book Press. Retrieved on July 23, 2008 from http://www.delsolbooks.com/inmyfamily.htm A sequel to Cuadros de Familia, we see and hear more of the author's childhood growing up in a traditional Mexican American community, such as, eating empanadas, witnessing the blessing on her cousin's wedding day, and dancing to music at the neighborhood restaurant. This book is great for an extension of writing activities, specifically the details in her words and illustrations. (Sally M. Summer 2008)
Morris, A. (2000). Families. New York, NY: HarperCollins. Retrieved on July 23 2008 from http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Families/Ann-Morris/e/9780688171988/?itm=1 Families is a non-fiction text that provides a simple explanation of families, how they are similar and different and how they function.Some children live with their mothers and fathers. Others have stepparents or live with just one parent. Still others live with grandparents or foster parents who chose them specially. But all children all around the world, are part of families--big and small, loving, sharing, and caring for one another. This book teaches children about family composition - they are all different. A great tool for showing family make up (members). (Sally M. Summer 2008)
Penn, A.& Harper, R. (2001) Un Beso En Mi Mano ,Indiana, Child Welfare League of America. Retrieved July 23, 2008 from http://www.amazon.com/Un-Beso-en-Mi-Mano/dp/1933718013/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1217041621&sr=1-1
This story is about a little raccoon who is really frightened about going to school. His mom tells him that she will always be with him and so she kisses his palm and tells him that it will go up his arm and into his heart. This is an engaging story that describes a bond between a son and his mother. This book teaches about feelings and special things we do with our family members. This book can introduce shared writing and independent writing activities about the special things we share with our loved ones. (Amaris M. Summer 2008)
Roca, N. (2007) Tu arbol genealogico. New York, NY: Barron's Educational Series, Incorporated. Retrieved July 23,2008 from http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Tu-rbol-geneal-gico/Nuria-Roca/e/9780764135804/?itm=17 This book demonstrates family trees – it shows how to go back and look at your ancestors. Further, it explains how important ancestors are because they are part of one’s life and history. This book is can be used to have children work with their families to create a family tree. (Sally M. Summer 2008) Axelrod, H. (1996), Peces y Acuario Ver y Conocer, Barcelona, Espana Retrieved on July 25, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Peces-acuarios-Basic-Book-Aquariums/dp/8425511313/ref
This book serves as a valuable resource for the class. It contains information about setting up setting up a fish tank, and fish from different species. It can also be helpful for students in the class who are reading on grade level. Students can write down name of the fish and start gathering facts about it. (Rosana, Q. Summer 2008)
Ganeri, A., (1998) Donde Viven Los Animales, Charlotte, N.C., C. D. Stampley Enterprise Retrieved on July 26, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Donde-Viven-Animales-Descubre-Mundo/dp/1580870090/ref=sr_11_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1217643674&sr=11-1
This is a non-fiction book which will teach children about the habitat of different animals. The book is divided into sections, vocabulary words, glossary, appendix, index and the table of contents. This book is simple to use children look for the habitat and turn to the page where it shows the different animals that lived there. There are also captions, illustrations, and photographs that go with each habitat. (Rosana Q. Summer 08)
Parker, S., (2004) Peces Eye Witness Book New York, N.Y. Dorling Kindersley. Retrieved on July 25, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Pesces-Eyewitness-Books-Steve-Parker/dp/0756604184/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1217644158&sr=1-2
This is a non-fiction book about fish. Children in the class will find this to be a great resourceful book because it has illustrations, photographs, and gives lots of facts about fish. This book will be an asset for the children in the class to investigate different types of fish. (Rosana, Q. Summer 08) Topic: Underwater Creatures
Genre: Nonfiction Spanish
Axelrod, H. (1996), Peces y Acuario Ver y Conocer, Barcelona, Espana Retrieved on July 25, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Peces-acuarios-Basic-Book-Aquariums/dp/8425511313/ref This book serves as a valuable resource for the class. It contains information about setting up setting up a fish tank, and fish from different species. It can also be helpful for students in the class who are reading on grade level. Students can write down name of the fish and start gathering facts about it. (Rosana, Q. Summer 2008)
Ganeri, A., (1998) Donde Viven Los Animales, Charlotte, N.C., C. D. Stampley Enterprise Retrieved on July 26, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Donde-Viven-Animales-Descubre-Mundo/dp/1580870090/ref=sr_11_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1217643674&sr=11-1 This is a non-fiction book which will teach children about the habitat of different animals. The book is divided into sections, vocabulary words, glossary, appendix, index and the table of contents. This book is simple to use children look for the habitat and turn to the page where it shows the different animals that lived there. There are also captions, illustrations, and photographs that go with each habitat. (Rosana Q. Summer 08)
Genre: Fiction Spanish
Parker, S., (2004) Peces Eye Witness Book New York, N.Y. Dorling Kindersley. Retrieved on July 25, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Pesces-Eyewitness-Books-Steve-Parker/dp/0756604184/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1217644158&sr=1-2
This is a non-fiction book about fish. Children in the class will find this to be a great resourceful book because it has illustrations, photographs, and gives lots of facts about fish. This book will be an asset for the children in the class to investigate different types of fish. (Rosana, Q. Summer 08)
Pfister, M., (2008), El Pez Arcos Iris N.Y. Norte-Sur Retrieved on July 25, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/El-Pez-Arco-Iris-Rbf/dp/0735821895 This story is a perfect introduction to the world of fish and the concept of friendship for 1st grade class. It is about a dazzling fish that learns to share his most prized possessions his scales thereby having more friends. This is book I plan to read in Spanish, because it will develop the student’s vocabulary in Spanish and while tapping into their prior knowledge in this language. (Rosana Q. Summer 08)
Genre: Fiction English Pfister, M., (1998), The Rainbow Fish, N.Y.North-South Books Retrieved on July 26, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Rainbow-Fish-Marcus-Pfister/dp/1558580093 This story is a perfect introduction to the world of fish and the concept of friendship for 1st grade class. It is about a dazzling fish that learns to share his most prized possessions his scales thereby having more friends. This is the book I will introduced this thematic unit as a read a loud. It will be read in English to develop the language proficiency and literacy of the English Language Learnerin the class. (Rosana, Q. Summer 08)
Topic: Weather
Genre: Non-Fiction (English)
DeWitt, L (1993) What Will the Weather Be?,New York, New York, Harper Collins Publishers, Inc. This book is a thorough book on explaining weather and how it occurs. It starts by explaining how hard it is to detect the changes weather will make from one moment to the next. Also, it explains what weather will do if different fronts of air, cold or warm air, come together. It ends by explaining the hard job of a meteorologist. This book can be helpful for students in the mid to higher elementary level grades. This book can be used as an introduction of what scientist do, observe-predict-analyze-make final theory. In addition, the students can write down the changes in weather during a period of time. Then, can analyze what happened during this time.(Vilma R.,Summer 2008)
Genre: Non Fiction (Spanish) Roca, N (2004). El Otoño, Gemser Publications Bacelona, España, Barron’s Educational Series, Inc., This book is part of a series of books that explains about the seasons and the changes in the weather. This particular book explains about the changes in the weather during the autumn season. The leaves on the trees change colors and the air gets cooler. It rains during autumn and there are strong winds. It also explains the fun activities you can do during this time and the appropriate clothes you should wear during this time. This book can be used for students from K-2 grades and it is a good way to introduce weather while reviewing the seasons. The students can write/share the fun activities they like doing during this time.(Vilma R.,Summer 2008)
Roca, N (2004). El Verano, Gemser Publications Bacelona, España , Barron’s Educational Series, Inc. This book is part of a series which explains about seasons and weather. It tells how during this time of the season the days are hotter. People are outside enjoying the beautiful weather. It explains all the things you can do during this season. The plants are blooming and butterflies are flying. It illustrates the correct clothes you should be wearing during this time. This book is most helpful for students in the earlier elementary level. You can have students write about their favorite thing to do during this time of the year.(Vilma R.,Summer 2008)
Roca, N (2004). El Invierno, Gemser Publications Bacelona, España , Barron’s Educational Series, Inc. This book is part of a series which explains about weather. It clarifies how during the winter days become gray and cloudy. The days are also colder that the rest of the seasons and it could also snow during this time. In addition this book tells about how important it is to stay warm. It also shows fun activities, like skiing, that we can do during this time. The animals that live and like snow are also a part of the explanation of this book. This book can also be used as part of the series and the different weather that occurs during the seasons. This book can be used with students in the lower elementary level. The students can share what they do during this time of the year.(Vilma R. , Summer 2008)
Genre: Fiction (Spanish)
Gill, S & Milbourne, A. (2004) Un día de lluvia, Saffron Hill, London, Usborne Publishing Ltd. This book goes into a simple explanation of how clouds are formed, and how when full, rain comes down. It also explains how much fun puddles can be. In addition it tells of the importance of rain for animals and plants. This book can also be used for students in the lower levels of elementary school. The students can share what clothing to have during rain in order to protect yourself.(Vilma R., Summer 2008)
Topic: Amazon Rainforest
Genre: Non Fiction
Butler, R. translated by , Pearson,D. L. & Camacho C. H., (2007) Gente de la Pluviselva School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-4501 Retrieved August 8, 2008 from: http://world.mongabay.com/espanol-spanish/301.html
At this link students can learn about the people who live in Rain forests. For this activity I would have students research with a partner about the children’s lives in a Rainforest. The next day or two we would together do a Venn diagram comparing and contrasting their lives and the lives of the children in the Rainforest. This activity fulfills Social Studies standards as well as Native Language Arts Standards. (Linda D. Summer 2008)
Cherry, L. & translated by Ada F. L. (1994). El Gran Capoquero: Un Cuento de la Selva Amazonica. San Diego, CA: Harcourt Brace,
This book is about a man has gone to the rainforest to chop down a great Kapok tree. When he lies down to rest, the creatures that inhabit the tree and the surrounding forest come to whisper in his ear, begging him to spare their home. I feel this a great book because it not only shows the various animals of the rainforest but also the empathy for the loss of their home. It is a great way to introduce the deforestation problem in the Amazon rainforest. I would read aloud this book and stop for partner shares to discuss the book during the reading. (Linda D. Summer 2008)
Cowcher, H. & translated by Guibert, R.. (1991). El Bosque Tropical. New York : Mirasol,.
This book about the rainforest. It is similar to El Gran Capoquero in that it demonstrates the dangers of deforestation and the effects on the animals. What I like best about the book is the use of its word choice. I would use this in a Writing Workshop mini lesson about strong words. This fulfills NLA standards and Social Studies standards. (Linda D. Summer 2008)
Discovery Streaming unitedstreaming (2005) More Creatures of the Amazon. Discovery Channel School, Silver Spring, MD: Retrieved August 5, 2008, from http://streaming.discoveryeducation.com/
This video is a highly engaging look at some of the animals of the rainforest. It is intended for grades 3 and up. I chose this video because it correlates with the 3rd grade Social Studies standards for World Communities. Also in my school district Brazil and the Amazon rainforest are a unit a 3rd grade teacher is to cover. Jeff Corwin narrates and documents his experience in Brazil as he encounters various animals and insects. I would use this as an opportunity for the students to get as much as a real experience as possible of the Amazon. Projected on a large Smart board screen, the experience of the Amazon seems to come to life. This is definitely not a video in which the students are bored watching. During the video, I would encourage the 3rd grade students to take notes or sketch. After the video they can either draw and label their favorite part from the video. (Linda D. Summer 2008)
ABCteach (2008) Rain Forest Animals Bar Graph, Retrieved August 6, 2008 from: http://www.abcteach.com/free/b/bargraph_rainforest_animals.pdf
ABCteach is a great web site to retrieve worksheets and ideas for thematic lesson planning. Although most of all resources are in English, it is a great starting point to modify your own worksheets. I would use this bar graph in a math lesson about tallying and graphing. This activity correlates with Math standards as well as reinforcing Social Studies. (Linda D. Summer 2008)
K-3 Spanish & English Resources by Topic & GenreTOPIC: Animal Nonfiction
Allen, N. (1999). En las orillas del Amazonas. Greenbay, WI: Charlesbridge Publishing
This book is about traveling to the edge of the Amazon River with two photographers. They encounter howler monkeys, poison dart frogs, an anaconda, parrots, caiman and other animals. The pages have detailed illustrations and keep a child's interest well and support the reading material. I would use this book as a read aloud for comparison with Un Paseo Por El Bosque Lluvioso. I would have students complete a Venn Diagram to compare the two books. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)
Carle, E. (1994). La oruga Muy Hambrienta. New York, NY: Philomel Books.
The story is about the butterfly cycle. A little caterpillar is born and everyday it eat sand eats until it is fat and ready to make a pupa for himself and turns into a big and beautiful butterfly. This is the perfect book to use to teach the butterfly cycle and to teach the days of the week and names of foods. It is also a pattern book which is great to use for repetition. I would like to create a matching game for the students to use to match the name of the fruits according to the days of the week the caterpillar ate them. Carrying caterpillars in the classroom and observing their metamorphosis would be a wonderful conjunction for this less. This fulfills Science standards. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)
15 year old author and illustrator Kristen Joy Pratt takes the reader through a wonderful introduction to the tropical rain forest of plants, animals, and people through the use of the alphabet. The book tells the story of an ant named XYZ, and his journey through the rainforest. The book has beautiful pictures and simple text that appeal to children in the primary grades. I would use this book as a read aloud to help introduce children to the wonders of the rain forest and the alphabet. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)
English Resources
National Geographic (n.d.). Amazing Animals. Washington, D.C. Retrieved on August 6, 2008 from: http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/Animals/
This site is includes great streaming videos of different types of animals from around the world. It also includes beautiful photos and interesting facts about these animals. I chose this site because I have a Smartboard in my classroom which allows me to highly engage the students in an interactive search for the unit of study. Children can go up to the Smartboard and open up video and sound links. For example if they would like to listen to the sound El Coqui makes, or watch how a butterfly immerses from its pupa. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)
Professional Resources
Bronwyn, C. (2003) Working With the Young English Language Learners. Washington, DC: U.S. Dept. of Education, Office of Educational Research and Improvement, National Library of Education. Retrieved on August 19, 2008 from: http://www.cal.org/resources/digest/0301coltrane.html
This article discusses the importance it is for teachers to plan when teaching ELL’s. It is not just about teaching ELL’s how to speak English, it also about encouraging these children to learn through creativity and with deep meaning. That is, the need to incorporate different types of learning, such as social, tactile, emotional, as well as intellectual learning. This article is helpful in reminding me to allow children to become involved in a purposeful learning environment to address their social needs. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)
The University of the State of New York (2004). The teaching of Language Arts to
Limited English Proficient/English Language Learners: Learning Standards for English as a Second Language. Albany, NY Retrieved on August 19, 2008 from: http://www.emsc.nysed.gov/biling/resource/ESL/02Early.pdf
This web link is from the NYS Department of Education. It lists the standards required for ESL in the early childhood level. It showcases the following:
- Learning Standards and Performance Indicators
- Sample Classroom Tasks
- Learning Experience
This is a good site to use as a reference guide when assessing my students’ work that will be displayed. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)Goodman, K., Goodman, Y., & Flores, B. Reading in the Bilingual Classroom:Literacy and Biliteracy. Chapter 7. Washington, DC. National Clearinghouse for Bilingual Education (1979). Retrieved on August 19, 2008 from: http://www.ncela.gwu.edu/pubs/classics/reading/section-seven.htm
This article discusses how a bilingual and biliterate curriculum should be designed. In a true bilingual/biliterate classroom a teacher must stress that language is learned and cannot be taught in a traditional sense. Teaching must be meaningful and functional in order for students to respond effectively. The article also discusses different content, methods, materials and assessments that can be useful. I personally enjoyed the organization factor of it. I am very keen on keeping the bilingual classroom well organized through signs, centers and bulletin boards. This article can give many ideas for a new bilingual teacher. Moreover, it reminded me of strategies that I already am using and strategies that I can add to my teaching. (Yesennia, J. Summer 2008)
Topic: Fairy Tales
Boada, F. (2004). The princess and the pea. San Francisco, CA: Chronicle Books LLC.
This is a story about a prince that anted a bride. He went to great lengths to find a bride, but all his efforts were in vain. When he least expected it a young princess knocked on his door. She needed a place to stay. Unsure if she was really a princess, the queen prepared a test to identify if the young lady was truly a princess. The young lady passed the test, she was a real princess and she married the prince. This fairy tale is an excellent way to impart values and morals to students. It also lends itself to the topic of family. It is also a great way to teach fantasy and reality and sequencing. (Ines M., Summer2008)
Bosom, M. (1998). Rocitos de oro. Barcelona, Spain: Barron’s Educational series, Inc.
This is a classic story with a twist. Goldilocks gets lost in the forest and ends up near the three little bear’s home. When the bears return home, they find her sleeping. The bears befriend Goldilocks and the little bear takes her to her house. Goldilocks and the baby bear build a lasting friendship and play together in the forest everyday. This story is great to use with other versions of Goldilocks. Students can compare and contrast different versions of the story. Students can also learn about family. They can learn about the different ways families interact. This version of Goldilocks is written in a form of a play, so children can act out the play, too.(Ines M., Summer2008)
Marshall, J. (1988). Ricitos Dorados y los tres osos. New York: Penguin Books
This story is about a mischievous girl named Ricitos Dorados. Her mother sends her to the store and warns her against going through the woods because of bears. Ricitos Dorados disregards her mother’s warning and goes into the woods. While walking through the woods she stumbles across a home. She enters the home and drinks the porridge left on the table. The girl sits on chairs, and lies in beds. She falls asleep in one of the beds. The bears return home and find that the house is not the way they left it. They search their house to find the intruder sleeping. Ricitos Dorados is awakened and jumps out of the window. She was never seen again by the three bears.
This book is good for teaching about family. It is also great for sequencing, comparing and contrasting different versions of the story. It is also great tool for writing. Students can change the ending of the story or write their own fairy tale.(Ines M., Summer2008)
San Souci, R. D. (1998). Cendrillon a caribbean Cinderella. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks
Cendrillon is the Caribbean version to Cinderella. The book depicts a young Caribbean girl and her godmother. In the story, the young girl is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsister. The young girl finds comfort in her godmother- a maid. Cendrillon, wants to attend a ball but is forbidden by her mean stepmother. Her godmother guarantees her she would attend and makes her attendance to the ball a reality. She meets a young man and dances with him until a little before midnight. She looses a slipper and the prince searches to find the young lady that can fit the slipper. He eventually finds Cendrillon, they marry and live happily ever after.
This book offers students a chance to learn about different cultures and about different types of family (nuclear, extended, etc). This book can be used to compare and contrast other versions of Cinderella. The book can also open dialect between children and their parents. Parents can share different versions of Cinderella stories they heard growing up.(Ines M., Summer2008)
Zemach, M. (1988). Los tres cerditos. New York: Marisol Libros Juveniles
This story is also a classic. The wolf eats two of the three pigs. The third pig plays tricks on the wolf. The wolf is eventually angered and goes after the third pig. He enters the pig’s home through the chimney and falls into a pot of hot soup. The wolf is eaten by the third pig.
With this version of the three little pigs, students can learn about matter. They can also learn about safety and different reading skills. (Ines M., Summer, 2008)
Topic: Family
Chicky, ABC Teach. http://www.abcteach.com. 2000. Retrieved July 22, 2008 from http://123child.com/UBB/showthread.php?t=6250
This site contains a variety of activities that focus on family. There is one particular project where children can bring in pictures of their family and make a collage from it. This collage will then be laminated and be used as a placemat for the children’s snack time. This site also lists books, rhymes, and songs that can help in literacy building activities. There are math, science, literacy, and art lesson ideas that teach children about different members of their families. This website is helpful in creating lessons and giving ideas for center work. (Amaris M. Summer 2008)
Col, J. Enchanted Learning. http://www.EnchantedLearning.com 1996. Retrieved July 22, 2008 from http://www.enchantedlearning.com/themes/family.shtml
This website has many different print outs and templates for writing about family. It also offers creative ideas, such as making a family tree from a branching twig. It holds nursery rhymes and songs that can be used in a family thematic unit. It also has print outs of family member names in NL. This website provides many materials and ideas for lessons on family.(Amaris M. Summer 2008)
Flor Ada, A. (2004) Me Encantan los Saturdays y los domingos. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing. Retrieved July 23, 2008 from http://www.delsolbooks.com/ilovesaturdaysydomingos.htm
This book is about a young girl who enjoys Saturdays and Sundays because she visits with her grandparents. On Saturdays, she visits her European-American grandparents and Sundays she visits her Mexican-American grandparents. The book demonstrates the similarities and differences of the grandparents’ culture. This book is a great tool for demonstrating different cultural backgrounds as well as the similarities. (Sally M. Summer 2008)
Henkes, K & Miawer,T (1993) Julius, el Rey de la Casa, Hong Kong , Everest Publishing. Retrieved July 22, 2008 from http://www.amazon.com/Julius-Rey-Casa-Kevin-Henkes/dp/8424133560 .
This book is a story about the feelings Julius has when a new baby joins the family. At first Julius is upset because the new baby is getting all the attention. He then starts realizing that he is glad to have a baby sister. This book can be used to teach about feelings, family, and siblings. It can be used as a motivation for lessons and discussions about the people we have in our families and the way we feel when we are with them.(Amaris M. Summer 2008)
Jack Keats, E. & Fiol, M (1999) La silla de Pedro, New York Penguin young readers group. Retrieved July 22,2008 from http://www.amazon.com/silla-Pedro-Penguin-Ediciones/dp/0140566546 .
This book is about a boy named Peter who recieves a new baby into his family. His parents handed down Peter’s crib and craddle to the new baby. Peter decides to save his baby chair for himself and then realizes he has outgrown it. This book teaches about sibling and families as well as growing and sharing. This book can be used to start a discussion about the things we share with our family and the family members that we live with. (Amaris M. Summer 2008)
Lomas Garza, C. (1990) Cuadros de familia. San Francisco, CA: Children Book Press. Retrieved on July 23, 2008 from http://www.delsolbooks.com/familypictures.htm
This book is the story of Carmen Lomas Garza’s childhood. The story is of her day to day experiences growing up in Kingsville, Texas focusing on different aspects of growing up in a Mexican American family, such as celebrating birthdays, making tamales, finding a hammerhead shark on the beach, picking cactus, going to a fair in Mexico, and confiding to her sister her dreams of becoming an artist. The book teaches about a having a strong sense of family and community. This book can be used for shared and independent writing activities about the special times shared with our family. (Sally M. Summer 2008)
Lomas Garza, C. (1996). En Mi Familia. San Francisco, CA: Children's Book Press. Retrieved on July 23, 2008 from http://www.delsolbooks.com/inmyfamily.htm
A sequel to Cuadros de Familia, we see and hear more of the author's childhood growing up in a traditional Mexican American community, such as, eating empanadas, witnessing the blessing on her cousin's wedding day, and dancing to music at the neighborhood restaurant. This book is great for an extension of writing activities, specifically the details in her words and illustrations. (Sally M. Summer 2008)
Morris, A. (2000). Families. New York, NY: HarperCollins. Retrieved on July 23 2008 from http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Families/Ann-Morris/e/9780688171988/?itm=1
Families is a non-fiction text that provides a simple explanation of families, how they are similar and different and how they function. Some children live with their mothers and fathers. Others have stepparents or live with just one parent. Still others live with grandparents or foster parents who chose them specially. But all children all around the world, are part of families--big and small, loving, sharing, and caring for one another. This book teaches children about family composition - they are all different. A great tool for showing family make up (members).
(Sally M. Summer 2008)
Penn, A.& Harper, R. (2001) Un Beso En Mi Mano ,Indiana, Child Welfare League of America. Retrieved July 23, 2008 from http://www.amazon.com/Un-Beso-en-Mi-Mano/dp/1933718013/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1217041621&sr=1-1
This story is about a little raccoon who is really frightened about going to school. His mom tells him that she will always be with him and so she kisses his palm and tells him that it will go up his arm and into his heart. This is an engaging story that describes a bond between a son and his mother. This book teaches about feelings and special things we do with our family members. This book can introduce shared writing and independent writing activities about the special things we share with our loved ones. (Amaris M. Summer 2008)
Roca, N. (2007) Tu arbol genealogico. New York, NY: Barron's Educational Series, Incorporated. Retrieved July 23,2008 from http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Tu-rbol-geneal-gico/Nuria-Roca/e/9780764135804/?itm=17
This book demonstrates family trees – it shows how to go back and look at your ancestors. Further, it explains how important ancestors are because they are part of one’s life and history. This book is can be used to have children work with their families to create a family tree. (Sally M. Summer 2008)
Axelrod, H. (1996), Peces y Acuario Ver y Conocer, Barcelona, Espana Retrieved on July 25, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Peces-acuarios-Basic-Book-Aquariums/dp/8425511313/ref
This book serves as a valuable resource for the class. It contains information about setting up setting up a fish tank, and fish from different species. It can also be helpful for students in the class who are reading on grade level. Students can write down name of the fish and start gathering facts about it. (Rosana, Q. Summer 2008)
Ganeri, A., (1998) Donde Viven Los Animales, Charlotte, N.C., C. D. Stampley Enterprise Retrieved on July 26, 2008 from:
http://www.amazon.com/Donde-Viven-Animales-Descubre-Mundo/dp/1580870090/ref=sr_11_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1217643674&sr=11-1
This is a non-fiction book which will teach children about the habitat of different animals. The book is divided into sections, vocabulary words, glossary, appendix, index and the table of contents. This book is simple to use children look for the habitat and turn to the page where it shows the different animals that lived there. There are also captions, illustrations, and photographs that go with each habitat. (Rosana Q. Summer 08)
Parker, S., (2004) Peces Eye Witness Book New York, N.Y. Dorling Kindersley. Retrieved on July 25, 2008 from:
http://www.amazon.com/Pesces-Eyewitness-Books-Steve-Parker/dp/0756604184/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1217644158&sr=1-2
This is a non-fiction book about fish. Children in the class will find this to be a great resourceful book because it has illustrations, photographs, and gives lots of facts about fish. This book will be an asset for the children in the class to investigate different types of fish. (Rosana, Q. Summer 08)
Topic: Underwater Creatures
Genre: Nonfiction Spanish
Axelrod, H. (1996), Peces y Acuario Ver y Conocer, Barcelona, Espana Retrieved on July 25, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Peces-acuarios-Basic-Book-Aquariums/dp/8425511313/ref
This book serves as a valuable resource for the class. It contains information about setting up setting up a fish tank, and fish from different species. It can also be helpful for students in the class who are reading on grade level. Students can write down name of the fish and start gathering facts about it. (Rosana, Q. Summer 2008)
Ganeri, A., (1998) Donde Viven Los Animales, Charlotte, N.C., C. D. Stampley Enterprise Retrieved on July 26, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Donde-Viven-Animales-Descubre-Mundo/dp/1580870090/ref=sr_11_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1217643674&sr=11-1
This is a non-fiction book which will teach children about the habitat of different animals. The book is divided into sections, vocabulary words, glossary, appendix, index and the table of contents. This book is simple to use children look for the habitat and turn to the page where it shows the different animals that lived there. There are also captions, illustrations, and photographs that go with each habitat. (Rosana Q. Summer 08)
Genre: Fiction Spanish
Parker, S., (2004) Peces Eye Witness Book New York, N.Y. Dorling Kindersley. Retrieved on July 25, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Pesces-Eyewitness-Books-Steve-Parker/dp/0756604184/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1217644158&sr=1-2
This is a non-fiction book about fish. Children in the class will find this to be a great resourceful book because it has illustrations, photographs, and gives lots of facts about fish. This book will be an asset for the children in the class to investigate different types of fish. (Rosana, Q. Summer 08)
Pfister, M., (2008), El Pez Arcos Iris N.Y. Norte-Sur Retrieved on July 25, 2008 from:
http://www.amazon.com/El-Pez-Arco-Iris-Rbf/dp/0735821895
This story is a perfect introduction to the world of fish and the concept of friendship for 1st grade class. It is about a dazzling fish that learns to share his most prized possessions his scales thereby having more friends. This is book I plan to read in Spanish, because it will develop the student’s vocabulary in Spanish and while tapping into their prior knowledge in this language. (Rosana Q. Summer 08)
Genre: Fiction English
Pfister, M., (1998), The Rainbow Fish, N.Y. North-South Books Retrieved on July 26, 2008 from: http://www.amazon.com/Rainbow-Fish-Marcus-Pfister/dp/1558580093
This story is a perfect introduction to the world of fish and the concept of friendship for 1st grade class. It is about a dazzling fish that learns to share his most prized possessions his scales thereby having more friends. This is the book I will introduced this thematic unit as a read a loud. It will be read in English to develop the language proficiency and literacy of the English Language Learner in the class. (Rosana, Q. Summer 08)
Topic: Weather
Genre: Non-Fiction (English)
DeWitt, L (1993) What Will the Weather Be?, New York, New York, Harper Collins Publishers, Inc.
This book is a thorough book on explaining weather and how it occurs. It starts by explaining how hard it is to detect the changes weather will make from one moment to the next. Also, it explains what weather will do if different fronts of air, cold or warm air, come together. It ends by explaining the hard job of a meteorologist. This book can be helpful for students in the mid to higher elementary level grades. This book can be used as an introduction of what scientist do, observe-predict-analyze-make final theory. In addition, the students can write down the changes in weather during a period of time. Then, can analyze what happened during this time.(Vilma R.,Summer 2008)
Genre: Non Fiction (Spanish)
Roca, N (2004). El Otoño, Gemser Publications Bacelona, España, Barron’s Educational Series, Inc.,
This book is part of a series of books that explains about the seasons and the changes in the weather. This particular book explains about the changes in the weather during the autumn season. The leaves on the trees change colors and the air gets cooler. It rains during autumn and there are strong winds. It also explains the fun activities you can do during this time and the appropriate clothes you should wear during this time. This book can be used for students from K-2 grades and it is a good way to introduce weather while reviewing the seasons. The students can write/share the fun activities they like doing during this time.(Vilma R.,Summer 2008)
Roca, N (2004). El Verano, Gemser Publications Bacelona, España , Barron’s Educational Series, Inc.
This book is part of a series which explains about seasons and weather. It tells how during this time of the season the days are hotter. People are outside enjoying the beautiful weather. It explains all the things you can do during this season. The plants are blooming and butterflies are flying. It illustrates the correct clothes you should be wearing during this time. This book is most helpful for students in the earlier elementary level. You can have students write about their favorite thing to do during this time of the year.(Vilma R.,Summer 2008)
Roca, N (2004). El Invierno, Gemser Publications Bacelona, España , Barron’s Educational Series, Inc.
This book is part of a series which explains about weather. It clarifies how during the winter days become gray and cloudy. The days are also colder that the rest of the seasons and it could also snow during this time. In addition this book tells about how important it is to stay warm. It also shows fun activities, like skiing, that we can do during this time. The animals that live and like snow are also a part of the explanation of this book. This book can also be used as part of the series and the different weather that occurs during the seasons. This book can be used with students in the lower elementary level. The students can share what they do during this time of the year.(Vilma R. , Summer 2008)
Genre: Fiction (Spanish)
Gill, S & Milbourne, A. (2004) Un día de lluvia, Saffron Hill, London, Usborne Publishing Ltd.
This book goes into a simple explanation of how clouds are formed, and how when full, rain comes down. It also explains how much fun puddles can be. In addition it tells of the importance of rain for animals and plants. This book can also be used for students in the lower levels of elementary school. The students can share what clothing to have during rain in order to protect yourself.(Vilma R., Summer 2008)
Topic: Amazon Rainforest
Genre: Non Fiction
Butler, R. translated by , Pearson,D. L. & Camacho C. H., (2007) Gente de la Pluviselva School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-4501 Retrieved August 8, 2008 from:
http://world.mongabay.com/espanol-spanish/301.html
At this link students can learn about the people who live in Rain forests. For this activity I would have students research with a partner about the children’s lives in a Rainforest. The next day or two we would together do a Venn diagram comparing and contrasting their lives and the lives of the children in the Rainforest. This activity fulfills Social Studies standards as well as Native Language Arts Standards. (Linda D. Summer 2008)
Cherry, L. & translated by Ada F. L. (1994). El Gran Capoquero: Un Cuento de la Selva Amazonica. San Diego, CA: Harcourt Brace,
This book is about a man has gone to the rainforest to chop down a great Kapok tree. When he lies down to rest, the creatures that inhabit the tree and the surrounding forest come to whisper in his ear, begging him to spare their home. I feel this a great book because it not only shows the various animals of the rainforest but also the empathy for the loss of their home. It is a great way to introduce the deforestation problem in the Amazon rainforest. I would read aloud this book and stop for partner shares to discuss the book during the reading. (Linda D. Summer 2008)
Cowcher, H. & translated by Guibert, R.. (1991). El Bosque Tropical. New York : Mirasol,.
This book about the rainforest. It is similar to El Gran Capoquero in that it demonstrates the dangers of deforestation and the effects on the animals. What I like best about the book is the use of its word choice. I would use this in a Writing Workshop mini lesson about strong words. This fulfills NLA standards and Social Studies standards. (Linda D. Summer 2008)
Discovery Streaming unitedstreaming (2005) More Creatures of the Amazon. Discovery Channel School, Silver Spring, MD: Retrieved August 5, 2008, from
http://streaming.discoveryeducation.com/
This video is a highly engaging look at some of the animals of the rainforest. It is intended for grades 3 and up. I chose this video because it correlates with the 3rd grade Social Studies standards for World Communities. Also in my school district Brazil and the Amazon rainforest are a unit a 3rd grade teacher is to cover. Jeff Corwin narrates and documents his experience in Brazil as he encounters various animals and insects. I would use this as an opportunity for the students to get as much as a real experience as possible of the Amazon. Projected on a large Smart board screen, the experience of the Amazon seems to come to life. This is definitely not a video in which the students are bored watching. During the video, I would encourage the 3rd grade students to take notes or sketch. After the video they can either draw and label their favorite part from the video. (Linda D. Summer 2008)
ABCteach (2008) Rain Forest Animals Bar Graph, Retrieved August 6, 2008 from:
http://www.abcteach.com/free/b/bargraph_rainforest_animals.pdf
ABCteach is a great web site to retrieve worksheets and ideas for thematic lesson planning. Although most of all resources are in English, it is a great starting point to modify your own worksheets. I would use this bar graph in a math lesson about tallying and graphing. This activity correlates with Math standards as well as reinforcing Social Studies. (Linda D. Summer 2008)