City Fish Country Fish: How Fish Adapt to Tropical Seas and Cold Oceans (Second Edition) (How Nature Works)
How Nature Works Series
on Goodreads (33)
What’s inside...
In 'City Fish, Country Fish' by Mary Cerullo, the book explores how city fish and country fish have adapted to their unique environments through various means such as color, shape, and size. Enhanced by Jeffrey Rotman's vivid underwater photography, the book captivates young readers by showcasing the diverse ocean life. The updated second edition includes new information on the impact of climate change on fish and their habitats, and insights into great white sharks, a species that traverses between cold and tropical waters. The book is rated Fountas & Pinnell Level T.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do the environments in the tropical seas differ from the cold oceans, and how do fish adapt to each?
Can you think of a fish from the book that fascinated you with its survival tactics? What makes it special?
Why is it important for fish to adapt to their surroundings? How does this help them?
What similarities and differences can you draw between how fish and humans adapt to their environments?
If you could be any fish from the book, which one would you choose and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your favorite fish from the book and asking your child about theirs. Discuss why those particular fish stood out.
Encourage your child to describe the habitats depicted in the book. This will help in visualizing and understanding the environments discussed.
Relate the fish's adaptation techniques to everyday situations your child encounters. This can help them understand why adaptation is crucial for survival.
Use a world map to locate tropical seas and cold oceans. This visual aid can enhance their grasp of where these environments exist.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Adaptation and Survival
Explanation: The book explores how fish thrive in varying environments, emphasizing their adaptive features in cold oceans and tropical seas.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of adaptability and resilience in different situations, encouraging them to adjust to new challenges in their lives.
Example Lesson: Biodiversity
Explanation: Through detailed illustrations and comparisons between city fish and country fish, the book highlights the rich diversity of aquatic life.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to appreciate and respect the variety of life forms, promoting environmental awareness and conservation efforts.
Example Lesson: Interdependence of Ecosystems
Explanation: The book explains how different species of fish interact within their ecosystems, demonstrating the interconnected nature of marine habitats.
Real-World Application: Children learn how individual actions can impact larger systems, encouraging responsible behavior towards their surroundings and in their community.
Example Lesson: Scientific Inquiry
Explanation: Mary M. Cerullo invites readers to observe and question how fishes' characteristics suit their habitats, modeling the scientific method.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be curious, ask questions, and seek knowledge about how the world works, enhancing critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Conservation Awareness
Explanation: The book subtly discusses the threats that marine life faces due to environmental changes and human activities.
Real-World Application: Children are sensitized to the impacts of human actions on nature and learn the importance of taking steps towards preserving biodiversity.