Rain Forests: A Nonfiction Companion to Magic Tree House #6: Afternoon on the Amazon (Magic Tree House (R) Fact Tracker)
#5 in Magic Tree House Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (872)
What’s inside...
The #1 bestselling chapter book series of all time, Magic Tree House, is celebrating 25 years with new covers and a revamped numbering system. After their adventure in Magic Tree House #5: Afternoon on the Amazon, Jack and Annie have several questions about the rainforest. This prompts them to explore facts about the rainforest's ecology, such as rainfall, the world’s heaviest insect, and the sausage tree. The Magic Tree House Fact Trackers provide children with up-to-date information, photos, illustrations, and fun tidbits. These Fact Trackers are excellent resources for kids to learn more about the topics they read about in the Magic Tree House series and are also useful for teachers to meet common core text pairing needs. The series offers different types of books suitable for various reading levels, from beginners to more experienced readers, including adventures, more challenging missions, and nonfiction companions.
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to explore a rainforest? What sounds, sights, and animals do you imagine you would encounter?
Why are rainforests important to our planet? What did you learn about their role in the environment from the book?
Can you think of any ways we can help protect rainforests from being destroyed?
What was the most surprising fact you learned about the rainforest? Why did it stand out to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the rainforest by relating it to their own experiences, such as a walk in a local park or garden. Use descriptive language to help them imagine the lush, vibrant landscape of a rainforest. Discuss the interdependence between humans and rainforests, stressing the importance of conservation. Draw parallels between the book’s themes and everyday actions that can contribute to environmental preservation, such as recycling or saving water.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Environmental Conservation
Explanation: The book explores the diverse ecosystem of rain forests and emphasizes the critical role they play in maintaining global health.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in activities like recycling and learn why preserving natural habitats is crucial for the future.
Example Lesson: Understanding Biodiversity
Explanation: Through vivid descriptions of the Amazon, the book educates about different species and the ecological interconnections.
Real-World Application: Students can apply this lesson by participating in local wildlife preservation programs and developing an appreciation for nature's variety.
Example Lesson: Scientific Inquiry and Exploration
Explanation: The protagonists' adventure mirrors the work of real scientists, fostering a spirit of curiosity and discovery about the natural world.
Real-World Application: Kids can be inspired to conduct their own experiments or research projects about local environmental issues.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: The book includes references to the indigenous tribes of the Amazon, providing insights into their way of life and challenges.
Real-World Application: This can lead to discussions about cultural respect and the importance of supporting indigenous rights and knowledge.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Problem Solving
Explanation: The characters often have to work together to navigate challenges in the Amazon, highlighting teamwork.
Real-World Application: This can be translated into group activities in school or collaborative tasks during play, teaching kids the value of working together to solve problems.