Big Brown Bear/El gran oso pardo: Bilingual English-Spanish
Green Light Readers Level 1 Series
What’s inside...
Bear is very big, very brown, and very busy.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
28 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Big Brown Bear felt when he found his chair broken? Can you relate to a time when something similar happened to you?
What are some ways Big Brown Bear tried to fix his chair? Have you ever tried to fix something by yourself?
Why do you think the story is told in both English and Spanish? How does it feel to hear the story in two different languages?
What do you think is the most important lesson Big Brown Bear learned in this story?
If you were Big Brown Bear, what would you have done differently in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressions and gestures to convey the emotions of Big Brown Bear as you read. This helps children understand and connect emotionally with the characters.
Pause at key moments to ask your child what they think might happen next, encouraging them to predict and engage actively with the storyline.
Discuss the bilingual aspect of the book. If your family is bilingual, talk about how knowing two languages can be beneficial. If not, express how learning a new language can be exciting and useful.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. This activity helps deepen their understanding and appreciation of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Sharing
Explanation: In the story, Big Brown Bear shares his resources and space with others, demonstrating the value of generosity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their toys, books, or snacks with friends, fostering a sense of community and friendship.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The bear forms meaningful friendships throughout the story, highlighting how relationships can provide support and joy.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to nurture their relationships with peers and family members, understanding that being a good friend has lasting positive impacts.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: When faced with challenges, Big Brown Bear creatively solves problems, showing that thinking outside the box is beneficial.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think creatively when faced with obstacles, whether in play or during school projects, enhancing their critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Bilingual Language Skills
Explanation: The book is written in both English and Spanish, providing an opportunity for language development in a practical context.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to learn and use a second language, which can improve cognitive development and social opportunities.