One Little Seed: Life Cycles
Usborne Life Cycles Series
What’s inside...
The book explores the journey of a single seed as it grows into a plant, detailing each stage of its life cycle. It intertwines the wonders of nature with the magic of growth, showcasing the interconnectedness of life on Earth. This delightful book follows the journey of a seed dropped from a bird, as it takes root, sprouts, and starts to grow, stretching up to the sky and becoming a brilliant yellow sunflower. Cleverly designed holes on every page encourage interaction as readers guess what is waiting overleaf. Specially written for little children, this is a perfect introduction to the wonders of nature and may even encourage budding gardeners.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-5
Length
14 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What journey does the little seed go on in this story?
How do you think the seed feels at different stages of its growth?
What other plants or trees might start from a seed?
Why is it important for the seed to have sunlight, water, and soil?
Can you think of any ways we help seeds grow in our garden or community?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the life cycle of the seed to life, altering your tone with each stage of growth.
Pause after each major development in the seed's journey to ask your child how they think the seed is changing.
Relate the seed's growth to a plant or tree your child is familiar with in your own garden or a nearby park.
Discuss the importance of environmental care and how it helps plants grow, linking it to the book’s narrative.
Encourage your child to draw or describe their own imaginary plant or tree starting from a seed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of growth and change
Explanation: Through the journey of a single seed into a blooming plant, children see the transformation and stages of growth.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate this to their own growth and understand that changes and development are natural parts of life.
Example Lesson: Responsibility in nurturing
Explanation: The story highlights the care the seed needs to grow, such as water, sunlight, and protection.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of taking care of their belongings and pets, recognizing that their actions directly affect the well-being of others and their environment.
Example Lesson: Patience and perseverance
Explanation: The seed does not transform overnight; it requires time and consistent care.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of patience and consistent effort in achieving goals, whether in school projects or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: The cycle of life
Explanation: The book introduces the concept of life cycles through the seed's journey, showing the continuous loop in nature.
Real-World Application: Children can better understand and respect natural processes and life forms around them, fostering a connection and appreciation for the environment.
Example Lesson: Observation and curiosity
Explanation: As the seed grows, various natural elements and creatures are introduced, sparking curiosity.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to observe and ask questions about the natural world, deepening their knowledge and interest in science and biology.