on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
An introduction to the physical characteristics, behavior, and life cycle of spiders. Stunning illustrations, multi-leveled text, and themed page spreads make this series as artistically beautiful as it is informative. Each book takes an in-depth look at a creepy, crawly creature, discussing its habitat, food, enemies, and life cycle. Loaded with fascinating facts, each title is set in an appealing design and concludes with a life cycle recap.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the spider feels when it's spinning its web?
What are some of the challenges the spider faces in the story?
Why do you think the spider keeps trying even when things are tough?
What did you learn about how spiders live?
If you were a spider, what kind of web would you like to spin?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves as the spider, enhancing empathy and deepening their understanding of the challenges faced by the spider.
Ask your child to draw their version of a spider’s web before or after reading the story, to engage their creative skills and connect them with the story's themes.
After discussing the questions, guide your child to think about how perseverance is important both in the story and in real life.
While reading, point out the details in the illustrations that might give more context to the spider’s emotions and actions, fostering observant and analytical skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Nature
Explanation: The book 'Spider' by Ting Morris allows children to explore the life cycle, habitat, and behavior of spiders through engaging illustrations and text.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by observing and respecting spiders in their natural environment, fostering a sense of curiosity and responsibility towards wildlife.
Example Lesson: Importance of Patience
Explanation: In the story, the spider demonstrates patience while weaving its web, teaching children the value of careful and persistent effort to achieve a goal.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of patience in accomplishing tasks like homework, crafts, or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Interconnectedness of Ecosystems
Explanation: The book highlights how spiders contribute to controlling insect populations and thus maintaining ecological balance.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of every creature in an ecosystem, encouraging holistic thinking and actions that support environmental sustainability.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fear
Explanation: By presenting facts about spiders, the book aids in demystifying these often misunderstood creatures and reducing irrational fears.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face and rationalize their fears in various aspects of life, promoting bravery and informed decision-making.