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Children will identify ways that squirrels prepare for the winter.
animal behavior, seasonal changes
key details, vocabulary, writing, diagrams
read a map
store, prefer, sorts, memory
RI.2.1 key details; RI.2.2 identify the main topic; RI.2.4 determine the meanings of words; RI.2.5 use text features; RI.2.7 diagrams; RI.2.10 read informational texts; SL.2.1 collaborative conversations; SL.2.3 ask and answer questions; W.2.2 informative texts
K
520L
Provide students with some background on squirrels.
Build background knowledge (10 min.)
Watch our video "Nuts About Squirrels." After children have finished watching the video, discuss the following question:
Preview vocabulary (3 min.)
Next, play the online vocabulary slideshow. This issue’s featured terms are store, prefer, sorts, and memory.
Set a purpose for reading (5 min.)
Read together (20 min.)
Pass out the Read and Think printable. Use it to check comprehension as you read the issue together, pausing to ask the questions.
Assessment: Reading Quiz
Pass out the Reading Quiz to review key concepts from the issue and assess students’ proficiency on key nonfiction reading skills.
Use the online game show to gauge comprehension and reinforce the issue’s content. Students can play by themselves or in teams. For each question they answer correctly, they earn a point.
You can use our printable worksheets to focus on important ELA skills. Here's how.
ELA Focus: Vocabulary (15 min.)
Editor’s Pick: Nonfiction Writing (15 min.)
ELA Focus: Diagrams (15 min.)
You can find a higher-Lexile-level and a lower-Lexile-level version of the article online here: