I Want My Banana! Arabic-English: Bilingual Edition
What’s inside...
This bilingual children's book features a story about a monkey's quest to find his missing banana. It is designed to help young readers develop language skills in both Arabic and English through a fun and engaging narrative.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the monkey wants the banana so much?
How do you feel when you want something very badly?
What are some ways the monkey tries to get the banana?
Can you think of a time when you worked hard to get something you wanted?
How does knowing both English and Arabic help you understand the story better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive hand movements and facial expressions to mimic the monkey’s emotions and actions as you read together.
Pause after every attempt the monkey makes to involve your child in predicting what could happen next.
Encourage your child to say some words in both English and Arabic to reinforce their bilingual skills.
Discuss the moral of the story and connect it to real-life situations where they wanted something badly.
Highlight the importance of persistence by relating it to the monkey’s repeated attempts to get the banana.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Language Skills Development
Explanation: This bilingual book promotes linguistic growth as children are exposed to both English and Arabic, enhancing their vocabulary and understanding of two languages.
Real-World Application: As children encounter multiple languages, it equips them to communicate effectively in diverse settings, be it at school or in multicultural environments.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The story shows the character facing an issue and exploring different ways to solve it, which encourages critical thinking in young readers.
Real-World Application: Children learn to apply problem-solving skills in everyday scenarios, whether it’s working out a disagreement with peers or overcoming a challenge at school.
Example Lesson: Emotional Expression
Explanation: The protagonist's quest for the banana reflects expressing desires and emotions, teaching children about the importance of articulating their needs and feelings.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to express their own needs and emotions constructively in their interactions with family and friends.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: The inclusion of Arabic alongside English provides a cultural perspective that broadens children’s worldview and promotes inclusivity.
Real-World Application: Fosters a more inclusive attitude towards diverse cultures and languages in their community and beyond, promoting empathy and respect.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: The main character’s determination to get the banana exemplifies persistence, a valuable trait portrayed through the storyline.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to persistently pursue their goals and tasks, be it in learning a new skill, completing homework, or participating in sports.