let’s celebrate!€¦ · let’s celebrate! teacher suggestions. these spring activities were...

Let’s Celebrate!

Teacher SuggestionsThese spring activities were created as an engaging way to count down to spring break. Instead, you might choose to complete these activities at any time during the spring months. Included are different “countdown” options. You might select to do one activity a day and have it be the 12 days of spring countdown, you might select to have students select any 5 activities to complete during the week before spring break, or any other way you choose. There are empty umbrella countdown pages or pages with the activities filled in. You decide how students complete the activities if you are choosing to use this as a countdown activity. If not, these activities are perfect for classroom work, centers, morning work, or anytime!

The three math activities included include different leveled options. Follow the guidelines below.

Rain, Rain, Go Away: There are two levels of this activity included. One version includes problems working with decimals and the other version includes smaller numbers. Answer keys included for this math activity.

Flower Spinner Math: One activity sheet has decimal and larger numbers and the second activity sheet has only whole numbers and smaller numbers. No answer key is included as the equations are dependent on the students’ spins.

Time to Garden Math: Two different leveled area and perimeter activities are included. One set has grid lines to make calculations simpler and the other does not. Answer keys are included for this math activity.

j9schneider@thinkgrowgiggle

Teacher SuggestionsFor the spring idiom class activity, print out the idiom strips and cut up each square. Place the papers in a bowl and have students blindly select one word to reflect upon with a partner or independently.

Here are some suggestions on how to use these activities if you choose not to use them as a countdown:


Morning Work Centers Cooperative Group Settings Jigsaw Groups Partner Work Close Reading Strategies Independent Reading Practice or Assessment Independent Writing Practice or Assessment Whole Class Instruction Homework or work sent home over break Extension or Extra Credit Activities Fast Finisher Work

Click the image below to visit my blog for more seasonal activities and lesson ideas.

http://www.thinkgrowgiggle.com/2019/03/teaching-poetry-strategies.html

Thank You!Thank you for your recent download! I hope you enjoy using it in your classroom with your students. Please note that it is for use in a single classroom only. If you would like to copy this product for more than one teacher, please purchase additional licenses available for a discounted price. I love to hear feedback about each of my products. Feel free to email me at [email protected] to leave feedback, too! It is easy and you can earn TPT credits on future purchases. I look forward to hearing from you!

Hi, I’m Jeanine from Think Grow Giggle! I have loved spending the past 17 years in the classroom teaching! I graduated with a bachelor degree in Elementary Education and American Studies. I hold two master’s degrees; one in educational technology and one in reading instruction. I am currently teaching 5th graders after spending 16 years teaching 3rd graders. I am certified to be both a classroom teacher and reading specialist. I enjoy living by the beach on Long Island and spending free time with my husband and children.

© Jeanine Schneider, ThinkGrowGiggle All Rights ReservedPurchase of this item entitles the purchaser the right to reproduce the pages for use in their own classroom. Duplication for multiple classrooms, grade levels, entire schools or districts, or for commercial use is strictly prohibited without proper consent from the author. Uploading this product fully or partially, to the internet is a violation of The Digital Millennium Copyright Act.

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Teacher Suggestions

12 Days of Spring Break Student Countdown Sheets

Rainfall Math Word Problems (two level options)

Spring Equinox - Nonfiction Reading and Activity

Frog Life Cycle - Nonfiction Reading and Activity

How To Catch a Frog Writing Activity

Rainbows - Nonfiction Reading and Activity

In Full Bloom Math Game (two level options)

A Trip to the Pond - Fiction Reading and Writing Activity

Planting a Garden Math Area and Perimeter Problems (two level options)

Views of Spring - Descriptive Writing Activity

In Like a Lion – Figurative Language Activity

Kindness Raindrops Community Building Activity

Life in the Rainforest - Nonfiction Reading and Activity

jschneider@ThinkGrowGiggle

Contents:

The 12 Days of Spring


RainfallMath

Spring Equinox

Frog Life Cycle

Catch a Frog Rainbows

In Full Bloom Math

A Trip to the Pond Garden

Math

RainforestLife

Views of Spring In Like

a LionBe Kind


The 5 Days of Spring


RainfallMath

Spring Equinox

Frog Life Cycle

Catch a Frog Rainbows

A Trip to the Pond Garden

Math

RainforestLife

Views of Spring In Like

a Lion

My __ Days of Spring

In Full Bloom Math

Be Kind


My Days of Spring


Name:______________________________________ Date: _____________

Rain, Rain, Go Away!Scientists who study the weather and weather patterns are called Meteorologists. During spring, meteorologists collect data about how much rain falls in each of the 50 United States. The data they collect tells how many inches of rain falls during each spring month. Once they have collected the data, they rank each state from wettest (#1) to driest (#50).

Below is a piece of the data table created last year by meteorologists. Study the table and then use the data to answer the questions that follow.

State Name Estimate of Rainfall in

Inches

State Rank from 1-50

Alabama 5 3

Arizona 1 50

Hawaii 6 1

Kansas 3 31

Texas 3 26

West Virginia 4 14

New York 3 28


Name:______________________________________ Date: _____________

1. If Hawaii receives the same amount of rainfall during each of the three spring months, will it receive more or less than 17 inches? How much more or less? Explain.

2. Based on the data, order the states from greatest to least amount of rainfall. What is the difference in rainfall between the state with the most rainfall and the least rainfall. Explain the strategy you used to solve.

3. Texas is ranked #26 and New York is ranked #28. The state ranked #27 is not included in the data table. How much rainfall falls in state #27? How do you know? What other predictions can you make based on the data table rankings?

4. What is the total amount of rainfall in inches for one monthfor the states listed in the data table? What is the total amount of rainfall for the states listed for all three months of spring?


Name:______________________________________ Date: _____________

1. If Hawaii receives the same amount of rainfall during each of the three spring months, will it receive more or less than 17 inches? How much more or less? Explain.

6 x 3=18 inchesOne more inch


Hawaii, Alabama, West Virginia, New York, Texas, Kansas, Arizona6 -1 = 5 as the difference in rain

3. Texas is ranked #26 and New York is ranked #28. The state ranked #27 is not included in the data table. How much rainfall falls in state #27? How do you know? What other predictions can you make based on the data table rankings?

If NY has 3 inches and Texas has 3 inches, then the state between them on rankings must also have 3 inches.


Total for one month = 25 inchesThree months = 75 inches

ANSWER KEY


Name:______________________________________ Date: _____________

Rain, Rain, Go Away!Scientists who study the weather and weather patterns are called Meteorologists. During spring, meteorologists collect data about how much rain falls in each of the 50 United States. The data they collect tells how many inches of rain falls during each spring month. Once they have collected the data, they rank each state from wettest (#1) to driest (#50).

Below is a piece of the data table created last year by meteorologists. Study the table and then use the data to answer the questions that follow.

State Name Rainfall in Inches

State Rank from 1-50

Alabama 5.37 3

Arizona .77 50

Hawaii 5.94 1

Kansas 3.00 31

Texas 2.50 26

West Virginia 4.06 14

New York 3.41 28


Name:______________________________________ Date: _____________

1. If Arizona receives the same amount of rainfall during each of the three spring months, will it receive more or less than 2.40 inches? How much more or less? Explain.


3. Your cousin lives in Hawaii and says that there is too much rainfall there. She wants to move to a state that has about half of the amount of rain of Hawaii. Based on the list given, which state should she move to? Explain your reasoning.



Name:______________________________________ Date: _____________

1. If Arizona receives the same amount of rainfall during each of the three spring months, will it receive more or less than 2.40 inches? How much more or less? Explain..77 x 3 = 2.31 2.31 is less than 2.40 by .09 of an inch

2. Based on the data, order the states from greatest to least amount of rainfall. What is the difference in rainfall between the state with the most rainfall and the least rainfall. Explain the strategy you used to solve.Hawaii, Alabama, West Virginia, New York, Kansas, Texas, ArizonaHawaii – Arizona = 5.94 - .77 = 5.17 inches

3. Your cousin lives in Hawaii and says that there is too much rainfall there. She wants to move to a state that has about half of the amount of rain of Hawaii. Based on the list given, which state should she move to? Explain your reasoning.Hawaii = 5.94, rounds to 6.00 inchesKansas and Texas have about half.Kansas = 3.00 and Texas = 2.50 which rounds to 3.00 inches


Total rainfall for one month = 25.05 inchesThree months = 75.15 inches

ANSWER KEY


Name:______________________________________ Date: _____________

The Perfect Rainboot!

Special features: ______________________________________Boots’ Name: __________________________________________

Have year heard about the newest boots?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

You just moved to Hawaii and realize that it rains a lot during spring. You decided to invent the perfect rain boots to use all season long. Use the space below to design your boots and label its special features. Then write a persuasive paragraph that would convince others to buy your new boots.

Earth travels around the sun during the year, there are two times a year when the length of daytime and nighttime are about the same, 12 hours each. These days are called equinox.

The spring equinox, also known as vernal equinox, signals the first day of spring. It is not a fixed date and can take place March 19th, 20th, or 21st . It marks the change of season from winter to spring. The equinox falls on the day when the rotation of the planet on its axis runs parallel to the Earth revolving around the sun. This means that half of the day is spent facing the sun (daytime) and the other half is away from the sun (nighttime). If you live in the northern hemisphere, the vernal equinox signals spring. If you live in the Southern Hemisphere, the vernal equinox signals fall. This exact movement happens again as the season changes in the Northern Hemisphere from summer to fall. This day is called the autumnal equinox and takes place around September 21st. Again, the planet experiences 12 hours of day and 12 hours of night.


Name:______________________________________ Date: _____________

What is the Spring Equinox?

Glossaryaxis - imaginary line that the earth rotates onequinox - when day and night are equal lengthrotate - to move around in a cyclical manner

Have you ever noticed that as springtime approaches the days slowly begin to get longer? The length of our daytime changes as the seasons change. The longest days that we experience are during the summer months and our shortest days are during the winter months. While the length of the day varies as


What is the Spring Equinox?The first day of spring is celebrated by people around the world. People enjoy outdoor activities with friends, planting gardens, going on nature walks, and spring cleaning.

The equinox occurs twice during the year and so do solstices. This does not mean that they are the same thing, in fact they are very different. The winter solstice takes place between December 20th -23rd . On this day, the North Pole is tilted furthest away from the sun. This means that if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, it is winter and you experience the shortest day of the year. This is because the sun’s rays are not shining directly on the northern portion of the Earth. However, if you live in the Southern Hemisphere, the sun is shining directly on you and you experience the longest day of your year, called the summer solstice. Earth orbits the sun tilted on its axis making the two different hemispheres closer to the sun at different times during the year. When one hemisphere experiences winter, the other hemisphere is experiencing summer. The Northern Hemisphere experiences its summer solstice around June 20th , when the sun is shining directly on the northern portion of the Earth. At the same time the Southern Hemisphere is experiencing winter.

After reading the passage respond to the question below.

How are equinox and solstices different? Explain.____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Which season do you prefer, spring or fall? Why? Explain._____________________________________________________________

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Highlight a sentence that tells when the spring equinox occurs.

Why do you think that people get excited for the spring equinox to occur? Explain._____________________________________________________________

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Directions: Read the passage two times. After you read the passage the second time mark the text by following the directions below. Check off each box as you complete the task.

Directions: Read the passage two times. After you read the passage the second time respond to the questions below using complete and detailed sentences.

J9Schneider@ThinkGrowGiggle

Highlight a sentence that tells how people welcome spring.Highlight a sentence that tells about the winter solstice.

Name:______________________________________ Date: _____________

What is the Spring Equinox?


USING ALL THE DAYLIGHT HOURSYou just learned that during the vernal equinox there is about an equal number of daytime and nighttime hours. Each with about 12 hours.

How will you spend your full 12 hours of daylight enjoying the equinox and welcoming spring?

Create snapshot illustrations to show three outdoor activitiesyou will do to welcome spring. Be sure to be creative,create colorful illustrations, and write a caption about eachsnapshot you created.


USING ALL THE DAYLIGHT HOURSYou just learned that during the vernal equinox there is about an equal number of daytime and nighttime hours. Each with about 12 hours.

How will you spend your full 12 hours of daylight enjoying the equinox and welcoming spring?

Create snapshot illustrations to show three outdoor activitiesyou will do to welcome spring. Be sure to be creative,create colorful illustrations, and write a caption about eachsnapshot you created.


Name:______________________________________ Date: _____________

HELLO 12 HOURS OF DAYLIGHT!


Name:___________________________________ Date: _____________

Frogs are part of a special class of animals called amphibians. Amphibians are creatures that live two

lives. The first part of their life is spent in the water and the second part of their lives is spent on land.

These creatures adapt in many ways to help them live in two different habitats.

Frogs, like other creatures, go through a metamorphosis as they grow into adults. A metamorphosis is

a change that has two stages. Like other amphibians, frogs lay eggs. When a female frog lays eggs, it

begins the life cycle of these creatures. Females lay hundreds of eggs in bogs. These soft eggs float in

water until they are fertilized. Even though frog eggs are protected by a jelly substance, not all of the

eggs survive to the hatching stage. Heavy rain and predators can destroy these eggs. A few short days

after being fertilized, the eggs hatch and out come tadpoles. A tadpole has gills and a tail to help it survive

and live in the water. Its first meal is the egg that it hatched from, which gives it all the nutrients that it

needs to begin its life. After living for a few weeks as a tadpole, its gills begin to disappear and limbs begin

to grow. A few weeks later, this amphibian begins to look like a frog and becomes known as a froglet. At

this stage, the froglet has budding limbs and lungs, which will help it breathe on land for the second part

of its life. A few weeks later, the froglet grows into an adult frog. During this final stage, its tail shrinks

and disappears. It can now use its fully developed limbs to hop out of the water and begin its life on land.

Frogs, like reptiles, are cold blooded. This means that

they need help from their surroundings to regulate their

body temperature. They can cool down and warm up

based on the temperature outside and their surroundings.

This is one reason why frogs usually live in

Glossarybogs – wet lands with soft and spongy soillimbs - any paired parts that stick out of an animal (wings, arms, legs)nutrients - substances needed for healthy growth and development of living creatures

A FROG’S LIFE


Name:___________________________________ Date: _____________

A FROG’S LIFEdamp environments. By living in places such as streams, meadows, bogs, and rainforests, frogs are able to

regulate their body temperature. Another reason frogs live in these areas is because they can not live in

salt water.

Frogs are carnivores and are considered predators. They eat mostly spiders, worms, beetles, and flies.

These amphibians have long tongues with sticky ends. By throwing their tongues out in fast, quick

movements, they are able to catch their prey, wrap it, and throw it to the back of their mouths to

gobble it up immediately.

There are over 4,800 species of frogs living in wetlands around the world. The largest frog measures

15 inches long and weighs 8 pounds. This frog is called the Goliath Frog and lives in Africa. While there are

many species of frogs, several of them are considered critically endangered. These amphibians are in

danger of becoming extinct for two main reasons: their habitats are being destroyed and they are dying

from fungal diseases. Two endangered species are the Black Eye Leaf Frog and the Harlequin Frog. We can

help save frogs by creating habitats for them. You can plant a tree, protect water areas and ponds, and

avoid using harmful chemicals in your backyard to keep these creatures safe.

Did you know that only male frogs can croak?

The next time you hear a croaking sound, take a

closer look. You will probably find a frog looking

for a mate, protecting its territory, or warning

other frogs of danger. Have you ever seen a frog

in your backyard?

How can you help to protect frogs? Explain._____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

Highlight a sentence that tells about a frog’s first stage of life.

How do you know that frogs are amphibians? Explain._____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________



Name:_________________________ Date:______________


Highlight a sentence that explains how frogs eat.Highlight a sentence that tells why frogs are endangered.

A FROG’S LIFE


You just learned all about the amazing frog!

Write about each stage of its metamorphosis by describing what happens at each stage. Be sure to use complete sentences.

Use information from the text to help you create an accurate time line of the life cycle of a frog.

Life Cycle of a Frog


You just learned all about the amazing frog!

Write about each stage of its metamorphosis by describing what happens at each stage. Be sure to use complete sentences.

Use information from the text to help you create an accurate time line of the life cycle of a frog.


____________________________________________________

Name:_________________________ Date:______________



____________________________________________________

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How To Catch a FrogAs soon as spring arrives, so do the frogs! Catching a frog is easier than it sounds. Think about the best way to catch a frog. What materials do you need? What will your plan be?

Start off by creating step by step illustration cards to show how to catch a frog. Turn your pictures into words by writing a step by step guide on how to catch a frog. Be sure to use time order words in your writing. Reread, check and fix any errors in your work.

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How To Catch a FrogAs soon as spring arrives, so do the frogs! Catching a frog is easier than it sounds. Think about the best way to catch a frog. What materials do you need? What will your plan be?

Start off by creating step by step illustration cards to show how to catch a frog. Turn your pictures into words by writing a step by step guide on how to catch a frog. Be sure to use time order words in your writing. Reread, check and fix any errors in your work.


1 2

3 4


5 6

7 8

Topic: ____________________________________________

INTRODUCTION (hook, goal, materials)____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Goal: _____________________________________________

Procedural How-To WritingGraphic Organizer


BODY (detailed and sequential directions with action words)Steps*________________________________________________________*________________________________________________________*________________________________________________________*________________________________________________________*________________________________________________________*________________________________________________________

CONCLUSION (wrap up with a question and restate what you taught)____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Name:___________________________________ Date: _____________


How To Catch a Frog___________________________________________________________

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___________________________________________________________

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How To Catch a Frog

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OVER THE RAINBOWName:___________________________________ Date: _____________

Did you know that rainbows are really an optical illusion? Rainbows are created by reflections

and refractions of light. In order for a rainbow to form and be seen, three conditions must

be met. There must be rain, the sun must be shining, and an observer must be standing

between the rain and the sun.

Rainbows are formed when sunlight and rain combine in a specific way. These multi-colored

visions are created when light strikes water droplets at the exact angle of 42 degrees.

Sunlight comes down as white light. White light is made of seven colors: red, orange, yellow,

green, blue, indigo, and violet. If the sunlight hits the raindrops at the necessary 42 degrees,

the raindrops act as prisms and separate the sun’s white light into its different colors. These

colors are what we see when we see a rainbow. Many people remember the colors of the

rainbow by using each color’s first letter to make a name: Roy G. Biv. The order of the letters

represents the order of the colors starting with the color red at the top of the rainbow’s

arc, continuing down to violet, the last color seen inside the arc.

Rainbows are actually full circles, and not just the arcs we see after a rainstorm. Since the

bottom half of the rainbow circle is hidden below

the horizon, the top half is all that is seen. While you

may think you can reach out and touch a rainbow,

you can not. Rainbows are light reflections that

our eyes can see, but they are not solid material our

Glossaryoptical illusion - when light and color create images that can be misleading to our brains. reflection - when light bounces off of an object and makes a reflectionrefraction - the bending of light from one object to another

Rainbows can be seen when water droplets interact with the sun. When have you seen a rainbow?

_______________________________________________________

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OVER THE RAINBOWName:___________________________________ Date: _____________

hands can touch.

Since rainbows are created from specific angle reflections and refractions, no two

people will ever see the same exact rainbow. The angle you view a rainbow from affects

how you see it. Someone standing right next to you will see the same rainbow differently.

The next time it rains, try to spot these arcs of light, once called magical bridges, in the

sky! Make sure all three conditions are met: rain or mist, the sun shining, and standing in the

right spot! Can’t wait for these three conditions? You can make your own rainbow at home

using just a garden hose in your backyard. Make sure the sun is shining before you try.

Turn on the water and use your finger to cover the end of the hose to make the water

spray out. You may have a nozzle on your hose with a spray setting. If you do, use that

setting to create a water mist. Now slowly turn your body as you hold the hose, spraying

the water into the air. Look for the rainbow to appear as the water mist approaches the sun

in the sky.

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Explain how rainbows are formed._____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

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_____________________________________________________________

Highlight a sentence that tells what three things are needed to form a rainbow.

Why can we only see half of a rainbow? Explain._____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________



Name:___________________________ Date:______________


Highlight a sentence that tells how to remember the colors of the rainbow.Highlight a sentence that tells what you need to make a rainbow in your backyard.

OVER THE RAINBOW

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Rainbows can be found in many folktales around the world. These types of stories are orally handed down from one generation to the next in different cultures around the world. These stories may or may not be true, but often times people believe them. Some rainbow folktales are filled with good luck and others bad luck. Some include magical creatures and some do not. One thing that is true, is that for thousands of years people all around the world have been fascinated by rainbows.

Now it is time to write your own legend that includes rainbows. Your legend should include a setting, clever characters with a problem that gets solved, and rainbows. Create an illustration for your writing piece, too.

OVER THE RAINBOW

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OVER THE RAINBOWRainbows can be found in many folktales around the world. These types of stories are orally handed down from one generation to the next in different cultures around the world. These stories may or may not be true, but often times people believe them. Some rainbow folktales are filled with good luck and others bad luck. Some include magical creatures and some do not. One thing that is true, is that for thousands of years people all around the world have been fascinated by rainbows.

Now it is time to write your own legend that includes rainbows. Your legend should include a setting, clever characters with a problem that gets solved, and rainbows. Create an illustration for your writing piece, too.

Name:___________________________________ Date: ________________

___________________________________________________________

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THE LEGEND OF THE RAINBOW


Name:___________________________________ Date: ________________

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___________________________________________________________J9Schneider@ThinkGrowGiggle

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IN FULL BLOOM!Name:________________________________________ Date: _____________

Directions: Use your pencil and a paperclip to create a spinner on each of the flowers below. Create 5 equations for each spinner and solve. Use the back to show your work. When you are done, select one of the equations you created and write a spring themed math word problem on the next page. Be sure to solve your word problem, show your work, and create an illustration to match. When spinning to create subtraction or division equations, you may spin until you create an equation that works (larger number first).

____ +_____ = _____

:

____ +_____ = _____

____ - _____ = _________ - _____ = _____

____ X _____ = _________ X _____ = _________ X _____ = _________ - _____ = _________ - _____ = _____:

.05____ +_____ = _____

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IN FULL BLOOM!Name:________________________________________ Date: _____________

____ +_____ = _____

:

____ +_____ = _____

____ - _____ = _________ - _____ = _____

____ X _____ = _________ X _____ = _________ X _____ = _________ - _____ = _________ - _____ = _____:

1,526____ +_____ = _____

8

Directions: Use your pencil and a paperclip to create a spinner on each of the flowers below. Create 5 equations for each spinner and solve. Use the back to show your work. When you are done, select one of the equations you created and write a spring themed math word problem on the next page. Be sure to solve your word problem, show your work, and create an illustration to match. When spinning to create subtraction or division equations, you may spin until you create an equation that works (larger number first).

___________________________________________________________

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Math Word Problem Sheet


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Name:_____________________________________ Date: _____________

A Trip to the PondI jumped out of bed excited to head to school. Today is our class field trip to the pond to learn all about

this ecosystem. I slung my backpack on, kissed my mom goodbye, and ran to the bus stop.

As I entered my classroom, I noticed my teacher, Ms. Hapibell, had lined the classroom walls with

posters and charts about the plants and animals that live in pond environments. “Today your job is to find,

observe, and take careful notes about as many of these species as you can discover,” she said as she

passed out field notebooks and pencils for us to use on our outdoor adventure. We learned yesterday that

ponds are manmade and can be found by meadows, farms, and even mountains. This means that ponds are

still bodies of fresh water. The pond we are visiting today is by a meadow close to our school. The meadow

is a large open area with no woody plants or trees. It has tall grass and plants like cattails growing out of

the watery areas. I am excited to observe the different butterfly species I know live in the area and

maybe catch a frog, too. My thoughts were interrupted by Ms. Hapibell’s warning, “Remember, children,

do not remove anything from the habitat that we visit today. Leave only your footprints behind.” I jotted

down her reminder in my field book and looked around the

room for Thomas, my field trip buddy. I found him and we headed toward the bus.

After a quick ride, the bus stopped at the entryway to the pond. Ms. Hapibell reminded

us of our tasks for the day and encouraged us to try to find the most unique organism

we could. “You only have an hour! Ready, set, EXPLORE!”.

Thomas and I ran toward the water’s edge to find as

much aquatic life as we could. As we approached, we

spotted some ducks who quickly scattered

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A Trip to the Pond

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as they felt the vibrations of our footsteps coming toward them. Quickly, we opened our field notebooks

and sketched what we saw. We listed the attributes of these birds and tucked our notebooks away. As we

walked around the pond, we noticed insects of all kinds! Beetles, flies, butterflies, and even water

scorpions. We tried to get our magnifying glass out, but the insects were too fast. Instead, we just sat

quietly and sketched what we observed. The silence was broken by the shrieks of one of my classmates

who saw a salamander. Thomas bolted up, leaving his notebook on the ground next to my feet. I wanted to

finish my sketch, so I stayed. Before long, Thomas came back. I noticed his hands were wet and his jacket

was dripping. I asked him if he caught sight of the salamander. Before he could answer, a frog jumped

between us headed toward a lily pad. We looked at each other, and our pencils flew across our paper. We

filled a page with sketches, diagrams, and labels. “What a close view,” I said as the frog stared right at us.

In the distance, the school bell rang three times. That was the signal to head back to the bus. It was

time to return to school and share our findings. “I think we will have the best information about frogs,” I

told Thomas staring at my jampacked notebook page. “I think I have the most unique finding,” he replied.

I did not know what he was talking about. Then, I remembered how he returned

from the other side of the pond with wet hands and jacket. “Did you take something?” I

asked as we approached the bus. Slowly, Thomas removed a small salamander

from his pocket and smiled. “Look!” he said. “You have to put that back. Ms. Hapibell

told us not to remove anything from the habitat,” I replied. Thomas

refused and we began to argue. Just then Ms. Hapibell

came over to find out what was going on.

She saw the salamander in Thomas’s hand

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A Trip to the Pond

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and pointed toward the pond’s edge. I knew what she wanted Thomas to do. She said, “A pond community,

like any habitat, is very fragile. It is important that humans do not interfere with its balance. One way we

can do this is by taking care of the environment by not polluting. It is also important not to take animals or

plants out of the community or bring in new plants or animals. Any small change will shift the entire

ecosystem. Thomas, we must do our part to keep habitats intact.” Thomas knew what he had done was

wrong and slowly headed towards the pond to release the salamander. We boarded the bus in silence. I

knew my friend blamed me for having to return the creature to the pond.

Back in our classroom we discussed our findings. When Thomas and I were called on to share what we

learned, I shared my sketch of the frog who plopped down right next to me. I looked at Thomas and told

him to share what he learned. He described what a salamander felt and looked like. Then, he told the class

that we all have to work together to protect the pond environment from being disrupted. I looked at him

and smiled. He smiled back. The pond was not the only thing that remained intact that day. Our friendship

did, too!

Create a list of character traits that describe the narrator.

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Create a list of character traits that describe Thomas.

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Would you or would you not want to have the narrator as your field trip partner? Explain._____________________________________________________________

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Highlight a sentence that gives examples of creatures that live near ponds.

What lesson did Thomas learn? How do you know?_____________________________________________________________

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Directions: Read the story two times. After you read the passage the second time mark the text by following the directions below. Check off each box as you complete the task.

Directions: Read the story two times. After you read the passage the second time respond to the questions below using complete and detailed sentences.

Name:___________________________ Date:______________


Highlight a sentence that gives a clue that Thomas caught the salamander.Highlight a sentence that captured your attention at the beginning of the story.

A Trip to the Pond


After reading the short story, “A Trip to the Pond”, reflect on what habitat you would love to visit for a field trip with your class. Write a personal narrative about your field trip.

Brainstorm different things that you might do, places you might visit, or who you might be with on your field trip.When you write your story, be sure to: Have your story take place at a habitat you already know

a lot about. Write a personal narrative with a strong beginning & an ending. Include details, a splash of dialogue, and figurative language.

A Special Habitat


After reading the short story, “A Trip to the Pond”, reflect on what habitat you would love to visit for a field trip with your class. Write a personal narrative about your field trip.

Brainstorm different things that you might do, places you might visit, or who you might be with on your field trip.When you write your story, be sure to: Have your story take place at a habitat you already know

a lot about. Write a personal narrative with a strong beginning & an ending. Include details, a splash of dialogue, and figurative language.

A Special Habitat


Name:_____________________________________ Date: _____________

My Field Trip to _____________


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Name:_____________________________________ Date: _____________

Time to Garden!You are excited to plant a garden this spring! Below are different garden options that will fit in your backyard. Your mom asked you to find the garden plot with an area of at least 8 square units and a perimeter of at least 17 units.Which of the following garden plots below can you use in your backyard?

Area = __________ Perimeter = ____________ Area = __________ Perimeter = ____________




Name:_____________________________________ Date: _____________


Area =8sq units Perimeter = 18 unitsTHIS IS THE ONE THAT THEY SHOULD USE.

Area =6 sq units Perimeter = 14 units

Area =5 sq units Perimeter = 12 units Area = 10 sq units Perimeter = 16 units

Area =8 sq units Perimeter = 16 units Area =8 sq units Perimeter = 16 units

ANSWER KEY


Name:_____________________________________ Date: _____________

Time to Garden!




You are excited to plant a garden this spring! Below are different garden options that will fit in your backyard. Your mom asked you to find the garden plot with an area of at least 10 square units and a perimeter of at least 16 units.Which of the following garden plots below can you use in your backyard?

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Name:_____________________________________ Date: _____________


Area =9 sq units Perimeter = 12 sq units Area =5 sq units Perimeter = 11 sq units

Area =6 sq units Perimeter = 12 units Area = 5 sq units Perimeter = 12 units

Area =4 sq units Perimeter = 10 unitsArea =10 sq units Perimeter = 16 unitsTHIS IS THE ONE THAT THEY SHOULD USE.

ANSWER KEY

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Views of SpringSpringtime means spending more time outdoors doing your favorite outdoor activities. Think about the different spring activities you love. Where do you like to go? What do you like to do? What games do you love to play?

On the next page, brainstorm the different things you love about spring and list why you love them. Then select one spring activity fromyour list and write a descriptive paragraph to tell about it. Be sure to use your 5 senses when you describe your favorite view of spring.

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Views of SpringSpringtime means spending more time outdoors doing your favorite outdoor activities. Think about the different spring activities you love. Where do you like to go? What do you like to do? What games do you love to play?

On the next page, brainstorm the different things you love about spring and list why you love them. Then select one spring activity fromyour list and write a descriptive paragraph to tell about it. Be sure to use your 5 senses when you describe your favorite view of spring.

Name: _______________________________ Date:__________

Use the boxes below to brainstorm your favorite outdoor activities to do during spring. In each box, tell what the activity is and list ideas about it. When you are done, reread your work and select one spring activity to write a descriptive piece about.

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Brainstorm

Feels Like (in my heart)

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Looks Like

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Name: _______________________________ Date:__________

Descriptive Writing Organizer

Topic: ________________________________________

Sounds Like

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Feels Like

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Smells Like

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Tastes Like

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Views of Spring

Views of Spring

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A Popular Springtime IdiomName:_____________________________________ Date: _____________

An idiom is one form of figurative language. It is a word or phrase that means something different from its literal meaning. An idiom can be a popular phrase that is accepted by everyone to mean something different than the words themselves actually mean.

Read the example below. Why is it an example of an idiom?What do you think this idiom might mean?

March came in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.

Time to Practice! Work with a partner to read the idioms below. After discussing them, write what you think they mean. Reread and check your work. Fix any errors you find. Be ready to share your thoughts with your classmates.

We’re all in the same boat. ______________________________________________________________________

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He let the cat out of the bag. ______________________________________________________________________

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An idiom is one form of figurative language. It is a word or phrase that means something different from its literal meaning. An idiom can be a popular phrase that is accepted by everyone to mean something different than the words themselves actually mean.Let’s make a class book!1. Select an idiom from the basket. Study it and reflect on its meaning.2. Write a short paragraph to describe its meaning.3. Check your work and share your writing with your teacher.4. Fix any errors you may have before creating the page for

our class book.5. Complete the class book page by writing the idiom you selected

at the top, your interpretation on the bottom, and creating a colorful illustration in between to explain your thoughts.

What Does That Even Mean?

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An idiom is one form of figurative language. It is a word or phrase that means something different from its literal meaning. An idiom can be a popular phrase that is accepted by everyone to mean something different than the words themselves actually mean.

What Does That Even Mean?

Let’s make a class book!1. Select an idiom from the basket. Study it and reflect on its meaning.2. Write a short paragraph to describe its meaning.3. Check your work and share your writing with your teacher.4. Fix any errors you may have before creating the page for

our class book.5. Complete the class book page by writing the idiom you selected

at the top, your interpretation on the bottom, and creating a colorful illustration in between to explain your thoughts.


We don’t see eye to eye.

The traffic was heavy.

You can’t pull the wool over my eyes.

Don’t get hung up on the problem.

It’s time to face the music.

We are in hot water now.


Give me a hand, please.

He put his foot in his mouth.

She gave me a dirty look.

Break a leg.

Don’t beat around the bush.

Bite the bullet.


A dime a dozen.

Cut him some slack.

Back to the drawing board.

Time to hit the sack.

Hang in there.

Get your act together.


Don’t get bent out of shape.

That’s the last straw.

You can say that again.

Break the ice.

By the skin of your teeth.

He is under the weather.


Name:_____________________________________ Date: _____________

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Our Idiom Interpretations

Class Book


It’s time to help spread some kindness, one drop at a time!A SPRINKLE OF KINDNESS

1. Select one of your classmates’ names from the basket.2. Use the heart template on the next page to send positive thoughts to your

classmate.3. Write 4 different positive things you want your classmate to know. It can be

positive attributes about them, reasons why you like them, messages about why they are a good friend and classmate, or a combination of these ideas.

4. Be sure to write sentences that are positive, upbeat, and filled with kindness! Your writing should make the receiver feel good about themselves.

5. Color and decorate your kindness page and be sure to sign your name.6. Be ready to deliver your kind message to your friend.


It’s time to help spread some kindness, one drop at a time!A SPRINKLE OF KINDNESS

1. Select one of your classmates’ names from the basket.2. Use the heart template on the next page to send positive thoughts to your

classmate.3. Write 4 different positive things you want your classmate to know. It can be

positive attributes about them, reasons why you like them, messages about why they are a good friend and classmate, or a combination of these ideas.

4. Be sure to write sentences that are positive, upbeat, and filled with kindness! Your writing should make the receiver feel good about themselves.

5. Color and decorate your kindness page and be sure to sign your name.6. Be ready to deliver your kind message to your friend.

________________ makes my days happier!

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Know

Want

to Know

Learned

RAINFOREST K*W*L

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Name:___________________________________ Date: _____________


Name:___________________________________ Date: _____________

LIFE IN THE RAINFORESTThe rainforest is a lush warm habitat where trees grow tall and creatures of all types live. Rainforests are mostly

found along the equator where it is hot. Some can also be found in temperate regions, like the Hoh Rainforest off

the Pacific northwestern coast of North America. The largest rainforest is the Amazon rainforest, which spreads

across many countries in South America. Its largest area is in Brazil. No matter where rainforests are found

around the world, they have many things in common.

Rainforests have four layers. The top layer is called the emergent layer. This layer includes the top of the

tallest trees. Trees grow extremely tall in the rainforest. The Kapok tree grows in tropical rainforests. It can

reach a height of up to 200 feet. All of the plants and trees in the rainforest compete with each other for

sunlight. The trees that get the most sunlight grow taller and create the next layer of the rainforest, called the

canopy. The canopy is made up of all the leaves and branches of the tall trees. These branches and leaves block

the sunlight from reaching the layers below. This prevents smaller trees and plants from growing taller. The

leaves of the canopy are connected with vines, which creates a playing ground for the animals that live there.

Below the canopy is the understory. This area is comprised of small trees and plants and is home to insects and

butterflies. Since little sunlight makes it to this layer, the plants that live here stay small. The bottom layer is called

the forest floor. Small mammals and insects live in this layer. Jaguars also hunt for food on the forest floor. Since

the rainforest is so densely packed with trees, leaves, and branches, very little light makes it to the forest floor.

This makes it a dark and damp environment. It takes about ten minutes

for the rain to even trickle down to this layer.

There are many different animals that make the rainforest their home.

While rainforests only make up 6% of the Earth’s surface, it is home to

about half of the planet’s animal species. One species that can be found

in the tropical rainforests of South America is the sloth. These

Glossaryarboreal - living in treesdense - closely packed togetherequator - an imaginary line around the earth equally distant from both poles creating the northern and southern hemispheressolitary - living or existing alone

creatures can live for 20-30 years and are often confused with monkeys because they also have long arms and

shaggy fur. Sloths grow to be about two feet long and weigh between 8 and 17 pounds. These mammals are

omnivores who feed on insects, small lizards, shoots, leaves, and flower buds. There are two types of sloths: two

claw and three claw sloths. While they are very similar, these slow-moving creatures differ in some ways. Two

clawed sloth are bigger and spend more time upside down hanging from branches. They have round heads and

sad looking eyes. Their cousins, three clawed sloths, spend most of their time sitting upright. These sloths look as

if they are smiling because of the facial colorations around their mouths. Three clawed sloths also have extra

neck vertebrae that allow them to turn their head almost all the way around. This helps protect them from

predators. Both sloths move incredibly slow. Scientists believe this is to help them be less noticeable to the

dangerous predators that live in the rainforest. Sloths rarely come down from the trees, but when they do, they

dig their claws into the ground to help pull and drag their bodies across the forest floor. Sloths are solitary, shy

animals. Males often live alone, while a handful of females may live together. The biggest predators of sloths are

jaguars, birds of prey, and humans. Sloths will call out with loud shrieks when they are caught by predators.

They use their claws in slashing movements to help them escape. While sloths are not on the endangered species

list at this time, they are threatened by habitat loss.

Another animal that makes the rainforest its home is the chimpanzee. These mammals are also omnivores who

love fruit. They can live to be 45 years old. Most chimpanzees are arboreal and live in tropical rainforests in the

Congo River Region of Africa. Chimpanzees are usually born one at a time to their mamas and spend their lives

together in large groups called communities. Each community has one strong

male leader and up to 150 members. It is not unusual for smaller

groups to form within each community. These groups are called

parties. Baby chimps spend their first two years living closely with

their mother and often ride on her back learning how to live. They

LIFE IN THE RAINFOREST

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continue to live closely with their mother for ten years. During this time, they learn how to nest in

trees, find food, and use tools. Chimpanzees use sticks as spoons to scoop out termites from mounds. They

use stones as tools to break open nuts and use leaves as sponges to collect water to drink. These creatures are

extremely smart and social animals. While they are known to knuckle walk on all fours, they can also walk

upright. They enjoy spending their days swinging from branch to branch in trees where they eat and sleep.

Chimpanzees’ greatest predators are leopards. Birds of prey also hunt baby chimps. Humans have become

predators of this creature, too. Chimpanzees are on the endangered species list. This means that they are in

danger of dying out. The number of chimpanzees is decreasing due to hunting, habitat destruction, and

diseases.

Rainforests are critical ecosystems to not just the animals that live there, but also to our planet. They can be

traced back millions of years ago and are present on every continent except Antarctica. The large amount of

rainfall creates lush environments that allow trees and plants to grow. These plants can only be found in the

rainforest and are used as medications, food, and ingredients. Rainforests also stabilize the climate by creating

clouds that lead to cooling. Today, deforestation is destroying the rainforests. This means that rainforests are

being eliminated as trees are cut down and replaced with things other than trees, such as homes,

industrial buildings, or farmland. The rainforests need to be saved. Not just for

the animals, trees, and plants that live there, but for all the problems deforestation

causes for our climate and planet. You can do your part to protect the rainforests

by using recycled paper, educating others about deforestation, and

planting trees and plants each spring.

How else do you think you can help to save the rainforests?


How do rainforests help our planet?_____________________________________________________________

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Highlight a sentence that tells where rainforests are mostly located.

Compare and contrast two layers of the rainforest. How are they the same? How are they different?_____________________________________________________________

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Name:________________________ Date:______________


Highlight a sentence that tells why sloths move slowly.Highlight a sentence that gives an example of how chimpanzees are social animals.


SAVE THE RAINFOREST!


After you read about sloths and chimpanzees complete a Venn diagram to compare and contrast these two rainforest inhabitants.

Reflect on your completed Venn diagram and select one animal to write a persuasive piece about, persuading your readers to save the rainforests and the animal you selected.

Be sure to include why they should save this animal from becoming endangered and detail snapshot illustrations to help persuade your readers.

SAVE THE RAINFOREST!


After you read about sloths and chimpanzees complete a Venn diagram to compare and contrast these two rainforest inhabitants.

Reflect on your completed Venn diagram and select one animal to write a persuasive piece about, persuading your readers to save the rainforests and the animal you selected.

Be sure to include why they should save this animal from becoming endangered and detail snapshot illustrations to help persuade your readers.

Name:___________________________________ Date: _____________

Chimpanzee

Both

Sloth


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Name:___________________________________ Date: _____________


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___________________________________________________________J9Schneider@ThinkGrowGiggle

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let’s celebrate!€¦ · let’s celebrate! teacher suggestions. these spring activities were...

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