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Children will identify why some plants are poisonous.
plant adaptations
key details, vocabulary, writing, classifying
read a diagram
sap, protects, toxic
RI.2.1 key details; RI.2.2 identify the main topic; RI.2.4 determine meanings of words; RI.2.10 read informational texts; W.2.1 writing; W.2.8 recall information; SL.2.1 collaborative conversations; SL.2.3 ask and answer questions
540L
Provide students with some background on plant adaptations.
Build background knowledge (10 min.)
Watch our video “Killer Plants." After children have finished watching the video, discuss the following question:
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.
Review vocabulary (3 min.)
Next, play the online vocabulary slideshow. This issue’s featured words are sap, protects, and toxic.
Assessment: Reading Quiz
Pass out the Reading Quiz to review key concepts from the issue and assess students’ proficiency on key nonfiction reading skills.
You can use our printable worksheets to focus on important ELA skills. Here's how.
ELA Focus: Vocabulary (15 min.)
Editor’s Pick: Writing, Classifying (15 min.)
ELA Focus: Writing (15 min.)
After reading “Where Poison Grows,” use one of our Anytime skill sheets to extend your lesson!
Here are two past issues you can use to extend your lesson on plant adaptations:
You can find a higher-Lexile-level and a lower-Lexile-level version of the article online here: