Grizzly Bears
Returning wildlife Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Grizzly bears were once the dominant predators west of the Mississippi River until the arrival of white settlers in the mid-nineteenth century led to their relentless killing. After the Endangered Species Act was enacted, grizzly bears began a slow recovery in the western United States. However, the future of grizzly bears remains uncertain. Stories of animal species threatened with extinction abound. The 'Returning Wildlife' series examines this topic from another perspective: species that have come back from the brink of extinction through the efforts of many different people and programs. Vivid writing and numerous examples enliven the stories told in these books.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-10
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think life is like for a grizzly bear in the wild?
How do grizzly bears take care of their families?
What differences did you notice between grizzly bears and other animals we've learned about?
Why is it important to protect grizzly bears and their habitat?
How do you think the grizzly bears felt during different parts of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they already know about grizzly bears to activate prior knowledge.
Pause at key moments in the story to discuss the illustrations and text, and how they help us understand the life of grizzly bears.
Relate the grizzly bears' experiences to your child’s life by discussing similar emotions or events.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of a grizzly bear or its habitat, discussing the details as they draw.
Explore more about grizzly bears through child-friendly documentaries or visits to a nearby zoo that houses them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Through vivid storytelling, 'Grizzly Bears' educates young readers on the behaviors and habitats of grizzly bears, emphasizing the importance of conservation.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and care for the environment around them, understanding the role every creature plays in the ecosystem.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family
Explanation: The book describes how grizzly bear families interact, showcasing protective and nurturing behaviors.
Real-World Application: Children can relate these family dynamics to their own, fostering respect and love for family members.
Example Lesson: Courage and Determination
Explanation: The grizzlies face various challenges in the wild, demonstrating courage and determination to overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to face their own challenges, whether at school or in personal growth, with bravery.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: John E. Becker's narrative reveals how grizzly bears adapt to different seasons and challenges, finding ways to thrive.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being flexible and adapting to new situations or changes in their lives.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: 'Grizzly Bears' shows how these animals make strategic decisions for survival, from foraging to avoiding predators.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think critically and make informed decisions in their day-to-day activities and interactions.