Planet Ark: Preserving Earth's Biodiversity (CitizenKid)
CitizenKid Series
What’s inside...
In this illustrated nonfiction book, 'Planet Ark' by Adrienne Mason, Earth is compared to Noah's ark, carrying all life forms and their necessities through the universe. The book highlights the importance of biodiversity, illustrating the delicate interdependencies among species, habitats, and climate. Threats such as climate change, extinction, and overharvesting, which endanger this biodiversity, are explored. The book also features 'modern-day Noahs' who work to protect and preserve life on Earth through responsible environmental stewardship. Illustrated by Margot Thompson, the book breaks down complex topics into compelling, manageable sections, making it a valuable resource for early grade life science classes. It includes tools like a table of contents, glossary, and index, and offers practical suggestions for young readers to contribute to the cause of preserving biodiversity. 'Planet Ark' is part of CitizenKid, a collection of books that inform children about the world and inspire them to be better global citizens.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think it's important to preserve Earth's biodiversity?
What are some actions mentioned in the book that we can take to help protect our planet?
Can you think of any animal or plant from the book that you found particularly interesting? Why?
How do you feel knowing that every species plays a unique role in its ecosystem?
What is one thing you would change or improve to help preserve our planet?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions about the book’s themes. Use prompts from the story to relate to everyday activities, such as recycling or conserving water, to make the connection tangible. Share your own ideas and feelings about biodiversity and discuss how preserving it benefits everyone. Compliment your child’s insights to build their confidence in discussing complex topics. Most importantly, make the conversation a two-way interactive dialogue to enhance engagement and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of biodiversity
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and a compelling narrative, 'Planet Ark' introduces children to the concept of biodiversity, explaining why different species are essential for a healthy ecosystem.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in local conservation projects or learning more about the plants and animals in their neighborhood, fostering a sense of responsibility towards preserving nature.
Example Lesson: Interconnectedness of life
Explanation: The book illustrates how various species depend on each other and how humans are a part of this intricate web, emphasizing the impact of our actions on the environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to think critically about how their behaviors affect the environment, promoting practices like recycling and conserving water at home and school.
Example Lesson: Role of individuals in conservation
Explanation: Adrienne Mason highlights how everyone, regardless of age, can contribute to preserving Earth’s biodiversity, showcasing examples of conservation efforts around the world.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to take small, actionable steps in their daily lives, such as creating a wildlife-friendly garden or participating in local clean-up days.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards living creatures
Explanation: The narrative fosters a sense of empathy by personalizing wildlife and showing the challenges they face due to environmental changes and human activities.
Real-World Application: This can lead children to be more compassionate and considerate towards animals, possibly influencing them to engage in or support animal welfare activities.