The Rain Forest
Look who lives in-- Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
A simple introduction to the variety of animals living in the rain forest, including butterflies, tree frogs, and iguanas. This series helps children develop their reading skills while they learn about animals and their habitats. A different animal is revealed on each spread, and the entire menagerie is presented at the end of each book. The text is simple and lyrical, capturing the imagination and sparking the curiosity of young readers. Alan Maker’s beautiful illustrations and engaging text makes this series a must-read for all youngsters. Each book also includes a picture index to facilitate learning.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-11
Length
29 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to live in a rainforest? Can you describe how the animals and plants help each other?
How do you feel about the way the animals interact in the story? What have you learned about the importance of every creature in the rain forest?
If you could be any animal from the book, which one would you choose and why?
What are some ways we can help protect rain forests like the one in the book?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in a different environment, like a desert or a mountain?
Tip: Role play these questions
Emphasize the interconnectedness of the rain forest ecosystem. Highlight how each animal and plant plays a crucial role, similar to communities in human society.
Discuss the illustrations in the book, asking your child to point out colors or animals they find interesting, which can lead to a deeper understanding of the diversity in rain forests.
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they think various animals in the book might feel in different situations, fostering a deeper emotional connection to environmental conservation.
After reading, consider watching a documentary or looking at real-world photos of rain forests to reinforce the learning and make the connection between the book and the real world.
Suggest creating a small project, like a drawing or a collage, that reflects what your child learned about the rain forest, helping them process information creatively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: In 'The Rain Forest', the vibrant illustrations and storytelling introduce children to the lush, green world of the rainforest and emphasize the importance of preserving such precious natural habitats.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and take care of their environment, understanding the role of conservation in everyday activities like recycling and saving water.
Example Lesson: Diversity and Ecosystem Interdependence
Explanation: Through the various animals and plants portrayed, the book teaches about the diversity within rainforest ecosystems and how every creature plays a critical role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the concept of community and teamwork. They learn that every individual, regardless of size or strength, has an important role in any group.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The lead character's exploration in the rain forest sparks curiosity among young readers about biology, botany, and ecology.
Real-World Application: Instills a love for science and exploration, encouraging children to learn more about the world around them and possibly taking up educational hobbies such as planting or animal watching.
Example Lesson: Conservation and Responsibility
Explanation: As the narrative progresses, the book highlights the threats to rainforests and the need for sustainable practices to protect these environments.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of being responsible at a personal and community level. Lessons like turning off unnecessary lights or using both sides of the paper can be imparted.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Adventure
Explanation: The fantastical elements and adventurous plot of 'The Rain Forest' stimulate the imagination, showing the beauty of imaginative play and exploration.
Real-World Application: Encourages creative problem solving in children, helping them develop innovative thinking skills that can be applied in real-life challenges.