LA Cucaracha/Cockroach
illustrations by
What’s inside...
The book 'LA Cucaracha/Cockroach' by Karen Hartley provides an in-depth exploration of cockroaches, covering their behavior, biology, and impact on human society. It discusses the history, adaptations, and ecological role of cockroaches, as well as their interactions with humans and the challenges they pose as pests. The book features engaging text and vivid illustrations, offering a comprehensive look at these resilient creatures.
Age
6-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the cockroach feels when it encounters different challenges in the story?
What lessons can we learn about resilience and perseverance from the cockroach’s journey?
What are some ways the cockroach adapted to its surroundings to solve problems?
Imagine you are a character in the story. How would you help the cockroach?
Why do you think the author chose a cockroach as the main character? What qualities do cockroaches have that might be important in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the shoes of the cockroach, fostering empathy and understanding of different perspectives.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at pivotal moments in the book, enhancing their anticipation and analytical thinking.
Discuss the importance of never giving up in difficult times, drawing parallels between the cockroach’s journey and real-life challenges your child may face.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques, changing your voice for different characters and events to make the story come alive for your child.
After reading, engage in a creative activity like drawing or role-playing to reinforce the story’s themes and allow your child to express their understanding in a new way.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The story portrays the cockroach's continuous effort to overcome the obstacles it encounters, demonstrating persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persisting through difficulties, whether it be in completing a challenging task or resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to changing environments
Explanation: The cockroach in the book adapts to various environments that it encounters, showcasing its ability to thrive under different conditions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of adjusting to new situations, such as moving to a new school or trying different activities.
Example Lesson: Understanding and accepting differences
Explanation: The character encounters various other creatures, each different in their own way, promoting diversity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to appreciate and embrace differences in others, helping them build more inclusive and supportive friendships.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-care
Explanation: The cockroach takes actions to care for itself throughout the book, which highlights the importance of self-care and personal well-being.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of taking care of their own needs, such as eating healthily, getting enough sleep, and practicing personal hygiene.