Inchworm and A Half by Pinczes, Elinor J [HMH Books for Young Readers, 2001] Hardcover [Hardcover]
on Goodreads (116)
What’s inside...
Several small worms use their varying lengths to measure the vegetables in a garden.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the inchworm will do with all the fractions it finds?
How did the inchworm solve the problem in the story?
What did you learn about measuring and fractions from this book?
Can you think of a time when you had to divide something into smaller parts like the inchworm?
How do you think the other characters felt when the inchworm helped them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to explain their thoughts after each question, fostering deeper understanding of the story's themes.
Relate the concepts of measuring and fractions in the book to real-life examples around your home to make them more tangible for your child.
Praise your child's efforts to understand and discuss the mathematical concepts, boosting their confidence and interest in math.
Use props, such as a ruler or objects for division, to visually demonstrate the concepts of measurement and fractions discussed in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding fractions
Explanation: The story follows an inchworm who wants to measure its garden using half-inch segments, introducing young readers to the concept of fractions in a tangible and engaging way.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children grasp the basics of fractions, which they can apply in everyday situations like dividing a snack into equal parts or measuring ingredients while cooking.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: As the inchworm encounters various challenges while measuring the garden, it must come up with creative solutions, demonstrating the importance of problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and solve problems they encounter, whether it’s figuring out how to share toys equally or tackling a difficult homework question.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: The inchworm continues to measure despite obstacles, showing perseverance.
Real-World Application: This instills in children the value of persisting with a task until it is completed, be it finishing a puzzle or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The inchworm often interacts with other characters who help in its quest, highlighting the importance of working together.
Real-World Application: Children see the benefit of cooperative play and teamwork in shared activities like group projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Attention to detail
Explanation: Measuring requires careful attention to detail, a skill that is emphasized through the inchworm's meticulous actions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to pay close attention to detail in their own tasks, whether it’s following instructions in class or completing a detailed drawing.