Rattlesnakes
Meet desert animals Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
Offers a brief introduction to the physical features and habitat of rattlesnakes. Text and photographs introduce the habitat, appearance, and behavior of rattlesnakes living in the desert.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-4
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to be a rattlesnake? How might their life in the desert be different from ours?
Why do you think rattlesnakes rattle their tails? What are some other ways animals protect themselves?
How did the illustrations help you understand the story better? What was your favorite picture and why?
If you could ask a rattlesnake one question, what would you ask? Why is that question important to you?
How do you feel about rattlesnakes after reading this book? Has your opinion changed, and in what way?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine the sensory experiences of a rattlesnake such as feeling the warm sun or sensing vibrations through the ground, enhancing empathy and understanding.
Discuss the importance of every creature, including rattlesnakes, in the ecosystem, promoting respect for wildlife.
Use the illustrations in the book as a visual aid to discuss habitats and behaviors of rattlesnakes, making the content more relatable.
Highlight the book’s messages about caution and respect for wildlife. Discuss with your child how understanding helps in overcoming fear or misconceptions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: Emily Rose Townsend's 'Rattlesnakes' engenders a deep respect for wildlife through the protagonist's encounters and increasing understanding of the snakes' role in the ecosystem.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in activities that promote ecological conservation and learning about different animals’ habitats and roles in maintaining biodiversity.
Example Lesson: Courage and overcoming fears
Explanation: The protagonist's journey to confront her fears about rattlesnakes mirrors her internal growth, showing young readers that bravery can lead to greater knowledge and understanding.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to face their own fears, whether it’s trying out for a team, speaking in front of the class, or dealing with a scary situation.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity and learning
Explanation: The book highlights the protagonist’s curiosity as she learns from experts and her own observations, showcasing the value of pursuing knowledge actively.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to ask questions, seek out answers, and learn about topics that frighten or intrigue them, enhancing their educational experience.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards animals
Explanation: Through vivid storytelling, children learn to see rattlesnakes not as villains, but as creatures with their own needs and roles in nature, which fosters empathy.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop empathy not just for animals, but for all living beings, encouraging compassion and understanding in their interactions.