Night Tree
Last updated Monday, July 23, 2007
Author: Eve Bunting
Illustrator: Ted Rand
Date of Publication: 1991
ISBN: 0152574255
Grade Level: 1st (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Dec. 2004
Synopsis:
By moonlight in the quiet forest, a young boy and his family decorate their favorite tree with popcorn, apples, tangerines, and sunflower-seed balls as a gift for the animals of the woods.
Note to readers: |
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Perhaps set up to read in a "picnic" style
on the ground to mimic the book.
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Discussion topics for before reading: |
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What are your family's traditions? What does it
mean to have traditions?
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What kind of things can we use to decorate a tree?
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Discussion topics for during/after reading: |
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Why didn't the family cut down the tree and take it
home with them? Why did they decorate with food?
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How does it feel to give someone a present? How
does it feel to receive a present?
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What things are you thankful for?
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Craft ideas: |
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Bring ahead option: Bring in bird seed and other
animal food to make an outside ornament for the
animals.
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Make a paper chain to hang on a tree.
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Draw a Christmas scene with your favorite animal in
his/her natural environment.
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Special activities: |
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Sing carols.
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*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!
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