Arriba Up, Abajo Down at the Boardwalk: A Book of Opposites (in English & Spanish) (Spanish-English Children's Books 4)
#4 of 6 in Spanish-English Children'S Books Series
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
Arriba Up is a bilingual picture book that blends Spanish and English to teach children about contrasts and opposites. Set in the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in California, the book features vibrant illustrations of marine animals, rides, water sports, and food, aiding in language and concept comprehension. Suitable for children ages 2 and up, including ESL/ELL/EFL learners up to 6th grade, the book contains 26 full-color pages, 100 simple read-aloud words (doubled for bilingual content), and includes a pronunciation guide in both languages. Authored by Karl Beckstrand, the book is available in multiple formats and is part of a series of seven bilingual children's books.
Discussion points
Can you think of other pairs of opposites that you see around us? How are they different?
Why do you think it is important to know opposites? How does it help us understand things better?
Which pair of opposites in the book did you find the most interesting and why?
How do the illustrations help you understand the concept of opposites in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
To enhance your child's understanding and engagement, focus on making connections between the opposites presented in the book and real-life examples. Encourage your child to use both English and Spanish words while discussing, fostering bilingual language skills. Praise their efforts to understand and articulate opposites, making the learning process enjoyable and confidence-boosting.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding of Opposites
Explanation: Through playful scenarios at the boardwalk depicted in both English and Spanish, children learn about contrasting concepts like 'up' and 'down' or 'big' and 'small'.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps children develop cognitive skills to observe and describe their surroundings, making learning new words and concepts easier in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Bilingual Language Skills
Explanation: Each page introduces vocabulary in both English and Spanish, promoting language skills in a bilingual format.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these skills in real-world settings, enhancing communication abilities in a multicultural world and potentially better cognitive flexibility in switching between languages.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: The setting of the boardwalk introduces children to diverse cultural elements that might be experienced in such a lively place.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect different cultures encountered in community spaces, fostering inclusivity from an early age.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Shared Activities
Explanation: The characters in the book experience the boardwalk together, highlighting the joy of shared family or community activities.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to participate in family outings or community events, strengthening bonds and creating cherished memories.