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The Snowy Day



Last updated Monday, January 7, 2013

Author: Ezra Keats
Date of Publication: 1962
ISBN: 0670654000
Grade Level: Kindergarten    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Jan. 2013

Synopsis: Amazon.com Review
No book has captured the magic and sense of possibility of the first snowfall better than The Snowy Day. Universal in its appeal, the story has become a favorite of millions, as it reveals a child's wonder at a new world, and the hope of capturing and keeping that wonder forever.

Note to readers:
•  This is a short book. You may want to do a "picture walk" before or after reading-- point out the illustrations and ask the kids questions about them. Also, please refer to the discussion questions and special activities if you're looking for ways to engage the students!

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Have you ever seen snow? If so, what did it feel like?
•  Have you ever played in the snow? If so, what are some things you like to do?
•  How would you describe snow to someone who has never seen snow?
•  Where does it snow?

Vocabulary:
•  Snowsuit- an outfit that is lined with especially warm material for very cold weather
•  Path- a track beaten by feet that can often be found along roadways
•  Crunch- a crisp, crushing, crackling sound
•  Heaping- a group of things thrown on top of each other, to become piled up, to overflow
•  Adventure- an exciting or unusual experience

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  When Peter went out into the snow, what were some of the things he did to have fun?
•  What happened to the snowball that Peter put in his pocket to save for the next day?
•  Can you think of a way to save a snowball?
•  When Peter went to sleep, what did he dream?
•  Did Peter's dream come true?
•  What are some ways you are like Peter?
•  What would you like to do if you had a snow day?

Craft ideas:
•  Make paper snowflakes. Start with any square of paper. Fold one of the top corners to meet the opposite edge, forming a right triangle. Fold the triangle in half, forming a smaller triangle. Crease well. Repeat. Begin cutting small shapes and designs out of your triangle. Carefully unfold the paper and reveal your snowflake!
•  Make a snowman by cutting 3 circles out of the provided construction paper and gluing them together. Decorate the snowman.

Special activities:
•  Walk in different ways as if to make different footprints (like Peter does).

*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!