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The Lorax



Last updated Monday, April 4, 2005

Author: Dr. Seuss
Date of Publication: 1976
ISBN: 0394823370
Grade Level: 3rd    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Apr. 2005

Synopsis: "At the far end of town where the Grickle-grass grows and the wind smells slow-and-sour when it blows and no birds ever sing excepting old crows is the Street of the Lifted Lorax," begins this ever-popular Seuss classic. The book is popular for a reason: it focuses on the power of individuals to change the world, the destructive nature of greed, and the need for protecting nature.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Have you heard of Dr. Seuss? What other books have you read?
•  What do you think a Lorax is?
•  Why do people cut down trees? We do use many things that come from trees--what are they?
•  What kinds of animals live in forests? Where would they live if all of the forests were cut down?
•  What does it mean to be greedy? When was a time that you were greedy?

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  What does it mean when the Lorax says that he speaks for the trees? How can you speak for the trees?
•  Look at the pictures before and after the Once-ler arrived. What effect did the Once-ler have once he started chopping down all of the Truffula Trees?
•  All the Lorax left was a small pile of rocks with the word ?unless.? Unless what?
•  What do you think the Once-ler looks like?
•  What?s the difference between needing something and wanting something?

Craft ideas:
•  Make an ?I am the Lorax. I speak for the trees? button
•  Bring ahead option: bring seeds, dirt and cups to plant.
•  Draw what you think the Once-ler looks like. Or, make up your own Dr. Seuss character along with the item that the character makes--what are they? Draw.

Special activities:
•  Work together to come up with a recycling plan to take home to your family.

*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!