Expand on the Reading

Lesson Plans for WHALES Level O

Expand on the Reading

Writing Connection

Have students write a few more pages to add to the book, expanding on topics such as endangered species, pollution, over-fishing, or migration. Illustrate what you have written or find photos on the Internet.
Have students write a make-believe story (fiction) using one of the whales from the story; give the whale character a name, and use facts you’ve learned from the story to develop your plot.

Worksheets

Go to www.learningpage.com Oceans Unit for more activities and worksheets about whales. (www.learningpage.com/free_pages/menu_wkshts/fact_oceans.html)

Math Connection
Have students at home and with the help of an adult look into the manual from their family car to see how much it weighs. Have them figure out how much heavier the blue whale that weighs 250,000 pounds is than their family car.

Art Connection
Have students make posters in support of protecting whales. Display them in the room or school hallways.

Reading Independently
Allow students to continue reading the book independently or with a partner. Have partners quiz each other on pertinent facts that are on each page. Model this by demonstrating, reading page 20: Whales usually swim in groups called ________.

Home Connection

Have students take Whales home and read it to their siblings or friends.
Suggest that students share with parents and siblings some of the amazing facts learned about whales.

Assessment

Monitor student response to the questions under Comprehending the Text to see how well they understand the content of the book.
Monitor student reading during the guided reading session to see if they effectively use reading strategies.
Review Lesson Objectives to check that students have met the projected goals.
Look over the various charts and drawings students may have completed and assess for following directions, imagination, and accuracy of facts.

Go to "Whales" main page