On Earth
Andrew lost Series
What’s inside...
Perfect for Earth Day! Climb aboard a giant spaceship—the Earth! In this beautifully illustrated book by G. Brian Karas, readers are taken on a journey that explores the Earth's cycles and the concepts of rotation and revolution. Through poetic text and stunning artwork, the changing shadows from day to night and the transitions from one season to another are depicted. As the Earth spins, circles, glides, and tilts, readers will understand how these movements affect our daily lives and weather. This book brilliantly explains complex astronomical concepts in a way that is understandable for young readers, emphasizing that as passengers of the Earth, our voyage never ends!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Little Dog
Trevor
Lan
Rose
Discussion points
How do you think the Earth changes from day to night?
What are some ways we can take care of our planet?
What did you find most surprising about the different places on Earth?
Can you think of an example of how people live differently in other parts of the world?
What's your favorite season and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause after reading key sections and prompt your child to reflect on the information.
Use a globe or world map to locate the different places mentioned in the book as a visual aid.
Draw connections between the book’s content and your child's daily life to make it more relatable.
Encourage your child to ask questions and express their thoughts or reactions to the book.
After reading the book, propose a family activity related to the book’s themes, such as a recycling project or a nature walk.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of time
Explanation: Through the changing scenes from morning to night, 'On Earth' provides children with a tangible understanding of how time progresses and affects the environment.
Real-World Application: Children can develop a routine, appreciate the passing of time throughout the day, and understand activities suitable for different times like morning or evening.
Example Lesson: Appreciating the Earth’s rotation
Explanation: The book illustrates how the Earth's rotation on its axis leads to day and night, showing why the sun appears to move across the sky.
Real-World Application: This concept can help children grasp more complex ideas in science classes and foster an early interest in astronomy and geography.
Example Lesson: Introduction to gravity
Explanation: Through simple language, 'On Earth' explains how gravity keeps us grounded and affects everything around us.
Real-World Application: Understanding gravity can make children more aware of their physical activities and encourage curiosity about how various objects move or fall.
Example Lesson: Cycles in nature
Explanation: Karas' book touches on various cycles like the seasons and the water cycle as part of Earth's intricate system.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of these cycles in supporting life, which can lead to environmentally conscious behaviors from a young age.
Example Lesson: Spatial awareness
Explanation: The book depicts different landscapes around the Earth, helping children visualize and understand diverse geographical features.
Real-World Application: Enhances children’s mapping skills and global awareness, encouraging explorative and informed perspectives about different places around the world.