Coral Snakes: Beware the Colors! (Fangs)
Fangs Series
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
Packed with fascinating facts and large, colorful photos, young readers are introduced to the natural habitat, physical characteristics, diet, and behavior of these colorful creatures. A coral snake may be small, but don't be fooled—it carries one of the deadliest snake venoms in the world. With magnificent colors that serve as a warning to other animals, the coral snake's appearance is complemented by folk rhymes to help identify them. Coral Beware the Colors! is part of Bearport's Fangs! series.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think coral snakes have such bright colors?
What did you learn about how coral snakes protect themselves?
How do you think other animals react when they see a coral snake?
Can you think of other animals that use colors to warn predators or protect themselves?
What would you do if you encountered a coral snake in the wild?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child what they know about snakes in general, to build a base for new information.
Use the illustrations in the book as a visual aid to discuss the unique aspects of coral snakes.
Relate the discussion to broader themes of safety and protection in nature, emphasizing the importance of being cautious and respectful towards wildlife.
Encourage your child to imagine they are exploring nature. Ask them how they would feel and react upon seeing a coral snake, using it as a way to reinforce safety tips.
After reading, engage your child in a creative activity, such as drawing their version of a coral snake or another protective-coloration animal, to reinforce learning through art.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the importance of caution and safety
Explanation: The book illustrates the potential dangers of interacting with unknown creatures like coral snakes through engaging storytelling. It teaches children to recognize the bright colors of the coral snake as a warning signal.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to be cautious and aware of their surroundings, especially when encountering unfamiliar animals or environments.
Example Lesson: Respecting nature and wildlife
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and facts about coral snakes, the book fosters a respect for nature and the role each creature plays in the ecosystem.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and protect wildlife, promoting environmentally responsible behaviors from a young age.
Example Lesson: The value of learning and curiosity
Explanation: The protagonist's journey to learn more about coral snakes and other reptiles highlights the importance and excitement of acquiring new knowledge.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to seek information and learn about the natural world, enhancing their educational development and critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Identifying hazardous situations
Explanation: The story teaches children how to identify potentially dangerous situations by using the example of the coral snake's distinct color pattern, which signifies venom.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop the ability to assess risks and make safer choices in various aspects of their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of listening to advice
Explanation: Characters in the book often heed warnings from knowledgeable sources about the dangers of coral snakes, illustrating the benefit of listening to expert advice.
Real-World Application: This reinforces the importance of listening to parents, teachers, and other authority figures, especially regarding safety issues.