Category Archives: thematic book list

Camouflage

This blog provides links to books, interactive kids’ websites, and teaching resources that would be useful in covering the topic of Camouflage in the classroom. The links provided would be appropriate to use with grades ranging from kindergarten to third … Continue reading

Posted in life science, teaching, thematic book list | Comments Off on Camouflage

The Planets

The following resources are intended for a range of elementary grades but fit specifically with the VA Science SOLs 4.7 and 6.8. In the fourth and sixth grades students learn about characteristics of the planets, the moon and the sun, … Continue reading

Posted in space science, teaching, thematic book list | Comments Off on The Planets

Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle in the Classroom

The following resources are appropriate to begin teaching first graders to become conscientious environmental advocates (Virginia Science SOL 1.8).  These resources, including pertinent literature and websites for both students and educators, help highlight the potential consequences of poor environmental stewardship … Continue reading

Posted in environment, teaching, thematic book list | Comments Off on Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle in the Classroom

Under the Sea… Teaching Ocean Ecology

The resources listed below are great to use in a 5th grade classroom for a unit on ecological characteristics of the ocean (VA Science SOL 5.6).  You will find appropriate children's literature related to the ocean environment, websites for students … Continue reading

Posted in earth science, teaching, thematic book list | Comments Off on Under the Sea… Teaching Ocean Ecology

George Washington

Introduction: This topic introduces second and third graders to George Washington the First President of the United States.  Through a variety of children books student learn about the life of George Washington from childhood, to commander of the military, to … Continue reading

Posted in biography, history, social studies, teaching, thematic book list | Comments Off on George Washington

Weather Phenomena and Forecasting

While weather is introduced in 2nd grade, (VA Sci. SOL 2.6) it is further investigated in 4th grade (VA Sci. SOL 4.6). Students focus on weather conditions and a more technical understanding of tools and methods of weather forecasting and … Continue reading

Posted in earth science, teaching, thematic book list | Comments Off on Weather Phenomena and Forecasting

Weather and Seasonal Changes

The topic covered here is weather and seasonal changes. Content to be covered includes the changes and extremes in weather, how weather influences human and animal activity, identification of common weather phenomena, and seasonal changes and how they influence human … Continue reading

Posted in earth science, teaching, thematic book list | Comments Off on Weather and Seasonal Changes

The Structure of Our Earth

Overview The surface of our Earth in in constant flux. Its slow and ceaseless shifting can be understood by investigating snapshots of the Earth’s history through rock and fossil evidence. These pictures illuminate the story of Earth’s ever-changing ‘skin’ from the … Continue reading

Posted in earth science, teaching, thematic book list | Comments Off on The Structure of Our Earth

Economics: Needs and Wants

Everyone has wants.  However, students need to realize that people can not have everything they want.   Choices have to be made.  Some choices are made based on our basic needs, which include food, clothing, and shelter.  The following books are … Continue reading

Posted in economics, social studies, teaching, thematic book list | Comments Off on Economics: Needs and Wants

Jackie Robinson

  As the first African-American player in the major leagues of baseball, Jackie’s actions helped to bring about other opportunities for African-Americans.  (SOL 2.11)  The resources given below will help a 2nd grade student learn about the life and times of Jackie … Continue reading

Posted in African American, biography, social studies, teaching, thematic book list | Comments Off on Jackie Robinson