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Academic Standards

 

Learning Objective:

Children will describe how weasels change in autumn and understand why the animals must get ready for winter.

 

Science Focus:

animal adaptations

 

Page 4 Skill:

read a diagram

 

Vocabulary:

hunts, molt, camouflage

 

CCSS:

RI.1.1 ask and answer questions; RI.1.4 determine meaning of words; RI.1.5 text features; RI.1.10 read informational texts; RF.1.2 digraphs and vowels; W.1.3 sequence events; SL.1.1 participate in collaborative conversations

 

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Watch the video

Build background knowledge about animal adaptations by watching “The Coolest Winter Adaptations.” When you’re done watching, ask the following question: What is one thing animals do to survive in the winter?

Preview new vocabulary words

Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce this issue’s featured words.

Set a purpose for reading

  • First read and discuss the cover. Can students predict the weasel’s trick? Then have students do a picture walk through the issue. What do they notice about the photographs of the weasel?
  • Before turning to page 2, say, “As we read the article, think about how the weasel is changing over time. Why does it need to change?”
  • As you read, pause after each box. Analyze each photograph and discuss how the weasel’s coat has changed in each box.
  • Complete the page 4 activity as a group or individually.
  • When you’re done reading, do the Dance Break!

Play the online game: Watch That Weasel!

(skill: digraphs)

Complete a hands-on activity: Weasel’s Spin Trick!

Kids create their own weasel trick while reviewing what they have learned about in the issue. (skills: fine-motor, writing)

Read a paired text: Once Upon a Weasel by Salvo Lavis

Once Upon a Weasel by Salvo Lavis is a funny picture book about a boy who adopts a weasel for a pet. Together, their imaginations run wild with dreams about space—until a reminder to be responsible brings them back to Earth!