Recommended Reading  We Can't All Be Rattlesnakes by Patrick Jenningsfiction Grades: 4-6th Lexile Level: 560L Selected because: Chapter book told from the perspective of a captured wild snake, story develops in empathy. Needs of organisms woven throughout the story. Engaging and relatable, addresses issues that arise when capturing wild creature. One curse word. Suggested activities: Research the pros, cons, and legality of capturing wild animals to keep as pets. Include considerations about the animal’s life needs and its role in the ecosystem. Possible expert sources: Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator, or contact a local vet or pet store. Using A Guide to the Snakes and Lizards of Virginia or the Virginia Herpetological Society’s website, learn about a snake of Virginia, turn it into a character, and write from its perspective. Additional literacy-based activities are available from Island Readers and Writers (opens PDF)  Verdi by Janell Cannonfiction Grades: Preschool-3rd Lexile Level: AD620L Selected because: Approachable, friendly story about a snake growing up. Addresses life changes, hints at shedding skin, and provides an opportunity to talk about camouflage and juvenile v/s adult coloration. Suggested activities: Guided reading lesson from Achieve the Core with a companion text set and lesson suggestions for those alternative texts. Investigate, diagram, and compare the life cycles of snakes (and other reptiles), insects (and other arthropods/invertebrates), amphibians, mammals, fish, and birds. Discuss and/or write about growing up from the point of view of another animal.  I (Don't) Like Snakes by Nicola Davies illustrations by Luciano Lozanonon-fiction Grades: Kindergarten - 4th Lexile Level: AD710L Selected because: This non-fiction text addresses many misconceptions and assumptions about snakes in a lighthearted and informative way while demonstrating how knowledge can change perceptions. Excellent information about snake structure and function supports the development of the character. Suggested activities: Discuss and use non-fiction text structures like the index and bibliography. Create a table of assumptions and the corresponding facts (slimy v/s dry and scaly). Identify which are characteristics of snakes or reptiles in general and label adaptations. |
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