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Science Comics: Trees: Kings of the Forest
Last updated Friday, November 7, 2025
Author: Andy Hirsch
Date of Publication: 2018
ISBN: 125014311X
Grade Level: 4th (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Nov. 2025
Synopsis:
In Trees: Kings of the Forest we follow an acorn as it learns about its future as Earth's largest, longest-living plant. Starting with the seed's germination, we learn about each stage until the tree's maturation, different types of trees, and the roles trees take on in our ecosystem.
| Note to readers: |
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Some of the words can be a challenge for you to pronounce. Be playful and candid with the kids as you all determine how to pronounce the more challenging words, making it a fun game figuring out how to say them. You can also explain that when reading to yourself it isn't necessary to stop and figure out how to pronounce words so long as you can enjoy the story or content.
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| Discussion topics for before reading: |
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Do you enjoy reading comic books? What types of books do you like to read (funny, adventure, etc.)?
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Do you know what the character on the front of the book is?
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Do you consider trees and plants smart? Why or why not?
Vocabulary:
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Lateral - in this case, roots that push out to the sides
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Agile - in this case, adaptable, can change quickly based on what is happening
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Queries - questions
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Impenetrable - can not be broken through; impossible to pass through
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| Discussion topics for during/after reading: |
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Would you like to live to be 500 years old?
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What direction does a plant grow?
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If you could decide how much to grow, how tall would you be?
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Who benefits from trees/plants?
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What kind of environment would you live in if you were a tree?
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Are all plants trees?
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| Craft ideas: |
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Create the perfect tree, add leaves from outside or make your own.
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Draw the life stages of a tree or your favorite environment.
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| Special activities: |
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Kids can enjoy the provided word search
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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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