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Unicorns and Germs (Zoey and Sassafras)



Last updated Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Author: Asia Citro
Illustrator: Marion Lindsay
Date of Publication: 2018
ISBN: 1943147469
Grade Level: 3rd    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: May 2020

Synopsis: An earthquake shakes Zoey's house. Or maybe it's a unicorn-quake? An enormous new friend arrives in a lot of pain, and it's getting worse every day. Zoey must work with her mom and Sassafras to find a cure -- and quickly!

Each story in the Zoey and Sassafras series features a new magical animal with a problem that must be solved using science.

Note to readers:
•  A principal told us the kids would delight in a sock puppet doing some of the reading!
•  This is part of the Zoey and Sassafras series, so the kids may be familiar with the characters already.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Who has a pet? What kind of animal do you have? What do you name a pet? What kind of names would you use for a dog? a fish? a cat? This pet is a cat named Sassafras.

Vocabulary

•  See page 93, "Glossary" for definitions.

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Who has had yogurt here? Who likes yogurt? This book starts out with Zoey learning to make yogurt at home using one cup of yogurt and a whole bunch of milk.
•  Who likes earthquakes? What do you do when you feel an earthquake?

Craft ideas:
•  Make a pair of "Thinking Goggles" using an old paper towel roll cut into shorter pieces, or toilet paper rolls, and string.
•  Make your own science journal with lined paper folded into quarters and the cut. Draw on the cover something having to do with science.
•  Make a unicorn mask or headband. OR make a cat mask.
•  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFCl3aq8Fpo
•  Make a Mother's Day card! Mother's Day is May 10th. (tomorrow) Fold a piece of colored or white paper in half. Draw a flower or bouquet of flowers on the front or inside.
•  Check our craft ideas on Pinterest!
https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/may-2020-fantasy-folklore-fairytales/

*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!