Clark the Shark: Friends Forever
I Can Read Level 1 Series
What’s inside...
Clark the Shark is back in a new adventure that focuses on the importance of friendship. Through various escapades at school, Clark learns to be a good friend, especially when he participates in a drawing contest for Captain Suckermouth comics. Despite his excitement, Clark must learn to listen to his friend Joey Mackerel, who is grieving the loss of his pet catfish. This Level Two I Can Read book combines lively text by Bruce Hale and bold illustrations by Guy Francis, making it ideal for young readers beginning to read independently while also emphasizing social emotional learning.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Clark The Shark
Joey Mackerel
Ms. Inkydink
Discussion points
How did Clark show his love and care for his friends in the story?
Why do you think it's important to have friends who help and support each other?
What would you do if you saw a friend feeling sad or left out, like in the book?
How can we be a good friend to others every day?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend or a friend helped you? How did that make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you discuss these questions, relate them to your child's personal experiences with friends to make the conversation more relevant.
Use examples from the book to highlight positive friendship traits and ask your child if they think those traits are important.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about friendship and discuss ways to be a good friend based on situations in the book.
Praise your child for thoughtful answers and insights, reinforcing their understanding and appreciation of friendship.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: Clark the Shark learns the importance of building and maintaining friendships through his interactions and adventures with other sea creatures.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to cultivate friendships and understand the mutual support and joy friendships bring in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Respecting Differences
Explanation: Throughout the book, Clark encounters various sea creatures who are different from him. He learns to appreciate these differences as unique characteristics that make each friend special.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to embrace diversity among their peers and learn mutual respect.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Clark faces challenges that require him to think critically and creatively. He shows problem-solving skills that resolve conflicts and help his friends.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use problem-solving skills in everyday situations, enhancing their decision-making abilities and boosting their confidence.