Watch Pine Trees Grow (Watch Plants Grow!)
Watch Plants Grow! Series
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
In 'Watch Pine Trees Grow' by Therese Shea, young readers learn about the life cycle and ecological importance of pine trees. The book is part of the 'Watch Plants Grow!' series and details how pine trees develop from seeds to mature evergreens, covering different parts like needles, cones, and bark. It also explores the various uses of pine trees, such as paper and food, and includes engaging photographs to help illustrate each growth stage. By presenting accessible information and visuals, the book aims to spark curiosity about nature and promote interest in environmental science. There are around thirty-five separate species of pine trees found throughout North America. Readers will explore how a pine tree grows from a seed in a pinecone into a tall tree that is used for many different things. People use pine trees for paper and even for food. Detailed photographs show these mighty plants at each stage of their life cycle.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think trees need to grow tall and strong?
How do you think the pine tree changes with each season?
Why are trees important for us and the animals?
What differences did you notice between pine trees and other types of trees?
If you were a pine tree, where would you like to grow and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use the illustrations in the book as visual aids to better explain the growth stages of pine trees.
Connect the story to real-life by discussing any pine trees in your neighborhood or a nearby park.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts by asking follow-up questions to their responses.
Relate the importance of trees to environmental well-being to instill ecological awareness from a young age.
After reading, consider planting a seed or visiting a botanical garden to bring the learning experience to life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Patience and Perseverance
Explanation: The book demonstrates the slow but rewarding process of pine trees growing from seeds to towering trees.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of patience and hard work in achieving long-term goals, mirroring how they can nurture their talents and projects gradually to see fruitful results.
Example Lesson: Lifecycle Awareness
Explanation: Through the detailed observation of pine tree growth, children grasp the concept of life cycles in nature.
Real-World Application: This understanding helps children appreciate the natural world and supports environmental consciousness from an early age.
Example Lesson: Observational Skills
Explanation: The book encourages children to notice small changes and details in the growth of the pine trees.
Real-World Application: These enhanced observation skills can translate to better focus and attention to detail in school tasks and daily activities.
Example Lesson: Scientific Curiosity
Explanation: ‘Watch Pine Trees Grow’ instills curiosity about how plants grow and adapt.
Real-World Application: This sparks an interest in science and exploration, potentially leading children to explore more about biology and the environment on their own or in school.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of trees to the ecosystem, demonstrating their role in providing oxygen and supporting wildlife.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and protect natural habitats, promoting environmentally responsible behaviors.