Life Among Animals Around the World
#4 of 4 in Youkan Reading Decodable Books Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Series 4 of Youkan Reading Decodable Books offers a collection of global stories featuring animal characters navigating daily life in diverse regions such as Thailand and Lapland. Each story introduces multisyllabic closed syllable words and suffix endings to enhance decoding skills across 80 pages. The books include background information on each setting and animal character to promote global awareness, making them ideal for early elementary students. Specifically designed for children with dyslexia or those requiring decoding support, the series follows a structured phonics sequence and includes a Sounds and Concepts Chart for reading assistance. The engaging and humorous narratives maintain the playful tone Youkan Reading Decodable Books are known for, and offer a substantial literacy support for students in need of decoding practice.
Discussion points
What similarities do you notice between animals that live in different parts of the world?
How do the habitats of these animals affect how they live and behave?
Why do you think cooperation is important among animals?
What can we learn from animals about taking care of the environment?
How do you feel about the way humans impact animal life and habitats?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, review the regions covered in the book and ask your child what they know about animals from these areas.
Actively encourage your child to compare and contrast the animals by asking what makes each one unique.
Discuss the importance of environmental conservation and how each animal contributes to its ecosystem.
Post-reading, engage your child in a creative activity, like drawing their favorite animal from the book, to deepen their connection to the story.
Encourage empathy by discussing how animals might feel in their habitats and the impact of human activities on these environments.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy towards animals
Explanation: The book 'Life Among Animals Around the World' by Cheryl A. Young explores the diverse lives of animals in various habitats, helping children understand feelings and lives from perspectives other than their own.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by showing kindness and consideration towards pets and wildlife they encounter, fostering a nurturing attitude towards all living beings.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: Through vivid stories from different parts of the globe, the book introduces children to the ways animals are integral to various cultures, promoting an appreciation for global diversity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open to learning about and respecting different cultural practices and traditions they meet in school or their community.
Example Lesson: Environmental responsibility
Explanation: The narrative underscores how animals and their habitats are affected by human action, emphasizing the importance of taking care of our environment.
Real-World Application: Kids can be inspired to participate in activities like recycling, conserving water, or joining conservation efforts, applying the concept of environmental stewardship in their daily habits.
Example Lesson: Scientific curiosity
Explanation: By presenting fascinating facts about animals and ecosystems, the book sparks questions and curiosity about biology and the natural world.
Real-World Application: This natural curiosity can lead children to explore science books, watch educational programs, or take part in science-based activities at school or in community clubs.