Colorado
America the beautiful. Series
on Goodreads (4)
What’s inside...
Describes the geography, plants and animals, history, economy, language, religions, culture, sports and arts, and people of the state of Colorado.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you find most interesting about the landscapes and animals of Colorado?
How do you think living in Colorado might be different from where we live?
What are some ways the people in Colorado might enjoy the outdoors?
Can you imagine what a day in the life of a child in Colorado might be like? What might they do?
How do you think the history of Colorado has shaped it into the state it is today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book by asking open-ended questions. Show genuine interest in their responses to make the conversation more engaging. Link aspects of Colorado’s geography and culture to their everyday experiences or to other books they’ve read to deepen their understanding and interest. Consider using visual aids, like a map of Colorado, to enhance your discussion and help your child visualize the places and landscapes mentioned in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: The book 'Colorado' by Jean F. Blashfield explores the diverse landscapes and natural beauty of Colorado, from its towering mountains to its sprawling forests.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and protect the environment around them, fostering a lifelong commitment to conservation and an active lifestyle of exploring and appreciating nature.
Example Lesson: Historical Awareness
Explanation: Blashfield delves into the rich history of Colorado, covering its Native American heritage, the Gold Rush era, and its journey to statehood.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and respect the history of their own region or country, understanding the impact of past events on present circumstances.
Example Lesson: Geographical Knowledge
Explanation: The book provides detailed descriptions of Colorado’s geographical features, including its rivers, mountains, and plains.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by recognizing geographical features in their surroundings and understanding their significance in ecosystems and human activities.
Example Lesson: Cultural Diversity
Explanation: ‘Colorado’ highlights the state's multicultural population and the influence of various cultural groups on its development.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to appreciate and celebrate cultural diversity in their own communities, promoting inclusivity and respect for different backgrounds and traditions.
Example Lesson: Economic Understanding
Explanation: The author touches on the economic aspects of Colorado, discussing its industries such as mining, agriculture, and tourism.
Real-World Application: This can help children grasp basic economic concepts and the importance of various industries in providing jobs and supporting communities.