Genre: Enviromental

According to KidSource, The rationale for environmental education during the early childhood years is based on two major premises. First, children must develop a sense of respect and caring for the natural environment during their first few years of life or be at risk for never developing such attitudes. Second, positive interactions with the natural environment are an important part of healthy child development, and these interactions enhance learning and the quality of life over the span of one's lifetime. Children learn these qualities through life experiences.  Since these experiences are sometimes very limited; adding quality books to your lessons will supplement these life experiences or add greater meaning to previous knowledge.  Quality features to look for in environmental texts include: accuracy, appropriateness and appeal.

My Favorite Picks:

 Frith, A., & Allen, P. (2010). Recycling and rubbish. London: Usborne.

Lexile: 830L
Complexity Band: 4-5

This text is an Usborne published books so it is created by a reliable resource.  The book is very interactive because it asks questions on the top of each page and then students lift the flaps to find the answers. Every page is full of cartoon illustrations appealing to students.  This text is a pretty complex theme and a world problem but written in a kid friendly style. The back page is full of quick facts and additional resources to deepen learning.  A few pages are really busy but I also think this is part of the appeal for developing readers.  The text features make the book look like a kindergarten to first grade level but due to the complex theme and tier 3 vocabulary words, this text would be better matched 3rd graders and above. This book would be a great pair with Social Studies; to teach students how our actions can affect our world.  Also, a great connection to Science with the break down of materials and what waste does to our Earth.  I think Recycling Awareness would be a great classroom project that students could get involved with their families and communities and really make a difference!


Edwards, H., & Russell, H. (2009). Big and busy where things come from. Priddy Books.

Lexile: 850L
Complexity Band: 4-5

This board book is a great introduction on how things are made, not only in the United States but other regions as well.  In the back there is a map to show what is grown in various regions of the world.  The map is laid out very simply with a symbol of the product on the region.  There is a key to verify the symbols, but the symbols are very simple and serve as a great visual for ESL students.  Although, this book is written in large print and is suited for developing readers; the themes are challenging so suited for 4th grade.  Text features include: bolded vocabulary words found in a glossary, illustrations to go along with the text, and many actual photos as well.  Simply flipping through the pages I learned a few things myself...I had no idea how pineapple was grown!  This book would be a fun addition to a primary grade library due to the durability of the board pages but would also play into a Social Studies lesson on imports and exports.