Smithsonian Kids All-Star Readers: Outer Space Level 1
Smithsonian Kids All-Star Readers Series
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
Developed in collaboration with the Smithsonian and literacy expert Dr. Adria Klein, Smithsonian Kids All-Star Readers: Outer Space Level 1 is designed for early readers. The book covers fascinating STEM topics related to outer space, including comets, asteroids, and moons, using photos and familiar vocabulary to support kindergarteners and first graders. It includes a quiz and glossary to enhance reading comprehension. Early readers can blast off into outer space with the Smithsonian in this leveled reader that supports STEM learning and introduces the planets, stars, galaxies, space exploration, and more. The book provides a comprehensive introduction to outer space topics with a carefully designed leveling structure to aid early readers. Concepts are reinforced by photos and include vocabulary familiar to kindergarteners and first-graders. Children can use the included quiz and glossary to reinforce their reading comprehension after reading this introduction to nonfiction.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What planets did you learn about in this book? Which one would you like to visit and why?
Can you name something new you discovered about outer space?
Why do you think it’s important for astronauts to explore space?
How do you feel when you look at the stars and think about the vast universe?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use visuals from the book to spark curiosity and link it back to the narrative to reinforce learning. Encourage your child to imagine being an astronaut, exploring new planets, which enhances creativity and comprehension. Discuss the importance of space exploration in relation to science and human discovery to instill a sense of curiosity and respect for scientific endeavors. Lastly, share a personal story or memory about stargazing or a related space experience to create a personal connection and make the reading experience more relatable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The book delves into various aspects of outer space, igniting a sense of curiosity in young readers as they learn about planets, stars, and other celestial bodies.
Real-World Application: Fosters a spirit of inquiry and exploration in children, encouraging them to ask questions and seek answers about the world around them, not just in science but in all aspects of life.
Example Lesson: Basic Scientific Knowledge
Explanation: Through simple text and engaging visuals, children are introduced to basic concepts of astronomy, which forms an essential part of scientific learning.
Real-World Application: This foundational knowledge helps children understand more complex scientific topics as they progress in their education, promoting a lifelong interest in science.
Example Lesson: Reading Skills
Explanation: Designed for beginning readers, the book uses simple, repetitive text to reinforce vocabulary and sentence structure.
Real-World Application: Improves literacy by enhancing vocabulary, reading fluency, and comprehension skills, which are crucial for academic success across all subjects.
Example Lesson: Confidence Building
Explanation: The level 1 reading challenge is tailored to help young readers succeed, thereby boosting their reading confidence.
Real-World Application: Increases self-esteem and motivates children to take on new challenges without fear of failure, impacting their overall learning attitude and success.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: By learning about Earth's place in the universe, children gain a broader perspective on our planet's environment and the importance of protecting it.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think globally about environmental issues, fostering responsible behaviors such as recycling and conservation from a young age.