The A, B, C of the Biosphere
on Goodreads (4)
What’s inside...
An alphabetical tour of the biosphere--the part of the earth where life can exist--with rhyming commentary on its occupants, from algae to zebrafish.
Age
7-9
Length
30 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think would happen if we didn't take care of the plants and animals in our environment?
Can you name some ways we can help protect the biosphere?
Why do you think the biosphere is important for us and for the Earth?
How do you feel when you think about the different ecosystems and all the living things within them?
What is one thing you learned from this book that you didn’t know before?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate the topics to everyday life by pointing out nature and environmental elements around your home or community.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and ideas about the biosphere by drawing or creating a simple project that reflects what they’ve learned.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to enhance deeper thinking and connection with the material.
Praise your child’s insights and curiosity to boost their confidence and interest in environmental topics.
Suggest keeping a 'Biosphere Journal' where your child can jot down new things they learn about the environment from books, school, or observations during walks or trips.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Throughout 'The A, B, C of the Biosphere', Max Finch narrates the interconnectedness of all living things, illustrating the importance of every organism in the biosphere.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in environmentally friendly practices like recycling, conserving water, and learning more about local wildlife.
Example Lesson: Diversity and Inclusion
Explanation: The book covers various ecosystems and the species that inhabit them, teaching children about the wide range of biodiversity in our world.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to appreciate and celebrate differences among people in their own communities, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Max Finch uses a playful, alphabetical structure to spark interest in environmental science, encouraging young readers to ask questions and seek knowledge.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore subjects in school further, conduct their own experiments, or participate in science fairs.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Stewardship
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes individual roles in ecosystem preservation, stressing how personal actions can impact the environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of personal responsibility by caring for their surroundings and being mindful of their impact on the planet.
Example Lesson: Empathy Towards Living Things
Explanation: By presenting the world from the perspective of various wildlife, the book fosters a sense of empathy and connection with nature.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to treat animals with kindness and respect, extending this empathetic behavior to their interactions with people.