What Is a Bird?
Animal kingdom Series
What’s inside...
Simple text and photographs present kinds of birds and their characteristics. Text and photographs introduce birds and some of their common physical characteristics.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-4
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Can you think of any ways birds are similar to us?
What do you think would happen if birds couldn’t fly?
How do you feel when you see or hear a bird?
Why do you think birds build nests?
What kind of bird would you like to be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voice and gestures to mimic bird movements as you read, bringing the story to life.
Pause after mentioning different bird attributes or behaviours, and ask your child to imagine or demonstrate them.
After reading, spend time outdoors observing birds in nature, then relate real-life observations to the book.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite bird from the book and describe why they chose it.
Use the book as a starting point to explore more about birds through library books or online educational resources.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and appreciating diversity
Explanation: The book explores the varied characteristics and behaviors of birds, teaching children that differences are what make each species unique.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace and respect the differences among people in their own communities, fostering a sense of inclusion and appreciation for diversity.
Example Lesson: Caring for the environment
Explanation: By learning about birds’ habitats, children understand the importance of environments in supporting wildlife.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to take an active role in protecting their local environments, such as by participating in recycling programs or planting trees to support local ecosystems.
Example Lesson: Observation skills
Explanation: The book encourages children to observe birds in their natural settings, highlighting the importance of attentive observation.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these observation skills in school and other areas of life, leading to greater curiosity and knowledge acquisition.
Example Lesson: Scientific thinking
Explanation: ‘What Is a Bird?’ introduces basic biological and ecological concepts that lay the groundwork for scientific thinking.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore science more deeply in their educational journey and apply critical thinking skills to understand the world around them.
Example Lesson: Respect for animal life
Explanation: The narrative fosters a gentle and respectful curiosity about bird life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to interact respectfully with animals they encounter, understanding the importance of all forms of life on our planet.