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If You Plant a Seed



Last updated Monday, November 4, 2019

Author: Kadir Nelson
Date of Publication: 2015
ISBN: 0062298895
Grade Level: 1st    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Nov. 2019

Synopsis: From School Library Journal:
A fuzzy, brown rabbit and a tiny notch-eared mouse plant tomato, carrot, and cabbage seeds and then wait for the plants to grow and produce. As they bide their time, the two sit in the rain, nap, and read books. Readers will notice the sky beginning to fill with birds, which the rabbit and mouse don't see until the fruits—or vegetables—of their labor are ready to eat. Then five winged creatures descend and look expectantly, in a priceless illustration, at the two farmers that try to protect their bounty from the intruders. A verbal argument and scuffle ensue until they all reach an understanding. After the seed of cooperation is planted among the seven characters, peace reigns and friendship grows.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Do you know anyone who planted a garden?
•  Where do fruits and vegetables come from?

Vocabulary

•  selfish - lacking consideration for others' concerned chiefly with one's own personal profit or pleasure.
•  heap - an untidy colletion of things piled up
•  kindness - the quality of being friendly, generous , and considerate
•  fruits (results, not edible) - the result or reward of work or activity

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Identify the tomato, carrot and cabbage plants
•  Did they grow more food than they need?
•  What are the birds thinking?
•  Compare the first harvest with the last one. How many can you find/name?
•  How do feelings "grow" like plants?

Craft ideas:
•  Draw a picture of what your family does for Thanksgiving. Discuss how you help prepare for Thanksgiving with your family/friends.
•  Trace around your hand to make a Thanksgiving turkey outline. Color it in.
•  Use dried leaves (if you have some) or cut out leaf shapes in bright colors and make a leaf wreath.
•  Check our craft ideas on Pinterest!
https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/november-2019/

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!