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When I Draw a Panda
Last updated Wednesday, September 2, 2026
Author: Amy June Bates
Date of Publication: 2020
ISBN: 1481451480
Grade Level: 1st (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Sep. 2026
Synopsis:
Sometimes when they say to draw a perfect circle, mine turn out a little wonky.
I can draw a perfect fluffy cloud, a perfect scoop of ice cream, and a perfect flat tire.
So when I draw a panda, I keep drawing more and more not-perfect circles until I see a panda.
Then I step back and think, “Does it need something else? He probably needs a hat”, and then he is my panda.
When a girl draws a panda, it comes to life and helps her embrace her own creativity and unique way of seeing the world.
| Discussion topics for before reading: |
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Do you like to draw?
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What are your favorite things to draw?
Vocabulary
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Mystery - something that is secret, unknown, or hard to explain
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Tumble - to fall or roll over and over
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| Discussion topics for during/after reading: |
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Do you think the panda is a good friend? Why or why not?
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Why do you think the author chose a panda instead of another animal?
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| Craft ideas: |
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Draw Your Own Panda Materials: Construction Paper, Markers, Crayons, Pencil
Directions:
1. Draw the head: Draw a large circle or slightly oval shape in the middle of your paper.
2. Add the ears: Draw two small, round ears on top of the head. Color them black.
3. Draw the eyes: Add two small circles for the eyes. Around each eye, draw a larger oval or circle and color it black to create the panda's eye patches.
4. Add the nose: Draw a small upside-down triangle in the middle of the face. Color it black.
5. Draw the mouth: Under the nose, draw a small curved line for the panda's mouth.
6. Draw the body: Under the head, draw a large oval for the panda's body.
7. Add the arms: Draw two curved arms on each side of the body. Color the arms black.
8. Add the legs: Draw two short, rounded legs at the bottom of the body. Color them black.
9. Add the panda's belly: Leave the middle of the panda's face and body white. This will give your panda its classic black-and-white look.
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| Special activities: |
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Guess The Animal 1. One player thinks of an animal, and the other player asks questions to figure out what animal it is.
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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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