~ Bears

{Bears}

This unit was originally designed to discuss and learn more about 'Polar Bears'. However, after several stories and activities, I noticed that my little one was becoming more and more excited about what we were doing...  with that,  I happily decided to expand the theme further towards different bear species.

**  There are Eight different types of Bears: Brown Bear also known as Grizzly Bear or the Bear with Many Names, Black Bear, Sloth Bear, Sun Bear, Panda Bear, Polar Bear, Asiatic Black Bear, and Spectacled Bear.  During my research and preparation I came across a helpful and informative website called the "Great Bear Foundation.

This foundation researches the variety of bears while trying to make it known to the public that the bears need funding for support and safety from extinction. The website pinpoints strong research regarding the topic. 

Below you will noticed that I implemented Science, Mathematics, Music mixed within the Creative play, Art, and LOTS of Literature along with a few brief video clips.  I find using different delivery methods make information within the lessons fun for the children.    

Fun Fictional Books

With that, I highly encourage having creative discussions with regards to the lessons below.  You can do this before and/or after the projects, reading the books, and lessons.  By doing so would allow the child to express their personal thoughts about the topic and/or what they have learned.  This is one tool that I often practice  ~ It helps gather prior knowledge through the process of what needs further development and/or modifications.  Personally, I like to know what the child remembered throughout.  It is truly amazing just how much children are able to recall.   

Possible discussion ideas:

* The similiarities and differences between each type of bear...

* Description of what each bear looks like...

* How and where each type of bear lives...

* The eating habits of the bears...

* 'Compare and Contrast' each type of bear...

* Which one was the favorite bear...

* The discussions are endless!

**Hope that you have fun!!
Enjoy!!

Introduction

This is the time to briefly go over the different types of bears and 'touch and feel' any stuffed ones that you might have lying around. {Again} This will help you gather any knowledge about what your little one may know about the subject and/or animals. 

HAVE Fun and Read, Read, Read!!!

I have included various books ~ Hopefully, they will encourage both parents and young ones alike towards the passion for reading, learning, and exploration.

Read: "A Bear for You" By: Kirsten Hall and Ilustrated by Iole Rosa

This is a fun little book. It is great for those who are learning to read and/or those developing stronger reading skills. Perfect for Pre-K and Kindergarteners. This simple introductory book briefly discusses several different types of bears. It has soft illustrations that attract various age groups.

Lesson 1: 'Polar Bears'

Read: "Polar Bears" By: Norbert Rosing~

This is an interesting book with real life photographs. The photos within truly seek out the attention of readers both young and old[er]. It is not only attractive ~ it is incredibly informative, detail oriented, and heartfelt with regards to all of the loving animals included within the story. It will, however, need to be modified according to age. My son absolutely loved looking at the pictures. Once finished, he talked and asked a LOT of questions about the different things within the book, such as: 'What are the bears doing?', 'What is that animal?', 'What are they sleeping in?' and lots more.

Obviously, we don't live in this wonderful white world so, I have included a short clip in order to demonstrate a brief glimpse.

A Beautiful Little Video of a Mother with her Cubs!!

http://youtu.be/OwZH_aT0FGI

The Scenery within the video is Absolutely Breathtaking.

My son, was in Awww!

Watching will give a slight insight to a world beyond...

~ Talk about Den, the Mother, and yes, the cubs!

Activity 1: Polar Bear Ice Dens

~ Discuss where Polar Bears Live

~ Discuss the location and the glaciers

~ Discuss the weather and why polar bears need dens.
~ Reference back to the video clip.

~ This activity is great for sensory.
~ Use the necessary vocabular words such as: 'dens', 'cold', 'freezing', etc.

Materials:

Ice Cubes, Salt, A Bowl, and A small container.

Directions:

1. Use different shape ice cubes

2. Put the ice cubes one at a time on the plate.

3. Pour a liberal amount of salt all over the ice.

4. Stack the ice slowly on the plate. They will stick- it does take time.

Activity 2: Sugar Den

Materials:

• 1 box of sugar cubes
• 1 tacky glue bottle
• 1 paper plate

Directions:

1. Start stacking the sugar cubes in an arch shape on the plate... (glue one on top of each other.)
2. Cover part of the arch with more cubes.

~ Easy project.

~ Great for tactile and use of fine motor skills.

~ Connections will soon be made "freezing" and/or "cold" ... "feels like this" or "this is what cold water (or) freezing water feels like"

*READ!

The Author and Illustrator, Hans de Beer wrote several creative and fun 'Little Polar Bear' books. The characters, specifically, the 'Little Polor Bear' within the books expanded further within growth throughout his personal experiences. With that, he developed most of the time a stronger self-esteem, established friendships, and overcame different challenges.

~ I highly recommend ~

• Little Polar Bear
• Little Polar Bear Finds a Friend
• Little Polar Bear and the Reindeer
• Little Polar Bear and the Husky Pup
• Little Polar Bear Take Me Home!
• Little Polar Bear and the Brave Little Hare

~ After reading be sure to discuss the different animals, locations, and various situations regarding the animals: Where the animals Lived, How they lived, Where and How they slept, What they ate, How they were able to get food, etc.

Activity 3: Ice Glaciers

Materials:

• Water
• Plastic Bowls or cups (various sizes)
• One large class bowl.
• Small plastic polar bears or white strofoam bear cut-outs

*We Recycled the bears from a cup~ it worked.

Directions:

1. Pour cold water into the plastic containers.
2. Put the bears in the water.
3. Put the containers in the freezer overnight.
4. Discuss the process then, read one of the polar bear books mentioned above.
5. Next day, pour warm water over the frozen containers...then, put the formed ice (glaciers) in a large bowl of cold water.

*My little one had a fun time with this. He was constantly putting his hands in the cold water, touching the bears, and talking about the ice (glaciers), all while going back and forth... far as to what he remembered from the stories, lessons, and video clip .

** Be sure to use vocabulary words: "Glaciers", "Ice", "Cold", "freezing", etc.
In addition, after playing with the "glaciers" myself.... I read another book while he did both... played and listened.

Activity 4: Cotton Ball Polar Bears
Materials:
• White Bear Template
• 20-25 White cotton balls
• Glue stick
• Black pen
• 2 Wiggly eyes

Directions:

1. Glue the cotton balls onto the bear.
2. Glue the wiggle eyes towards the top.
3. Draw a nose and mouth
4. Once finished, review and read another book.

*Great for those who have tactile issues....with pulling the cotton apart, picking the cotton ball up one at a time, placing the glue on the paper, etc.

Activity 5:  "Monart" Polar Bear

I admit, I lack knowledge within the art world.  I used to call this type of activity "Watch and Draw." My wonderful friend enlightened me regarding the "Monart" concept and theory behind art.  Monart allows children to deeply observe, appreciate, and attempt to independently draw by and for themselves.(Note, draw by themselves)  Therefore, I highly recommend teachers, parents, and children to view and research the Monart School of Arts website.  It is vibrant, creative, and truly educational and geared for those who are interested in the topic.http://monart.com/about/method/

Explore an Open Mind on Paper!!

Materials:

- White crayon

- Color choice of construction paper. 

My three-year-old did this all by himself.

Directions:

1.  Visually demonstrate in front of the student.
2.  One simple step at a time.... meaning use short phrases.
3.  Take your time and observe the child draw.
4.  Do not correct any mistakes!! (i.e. if the child draws a 'long line' instead of a 'short line' don't worry)Allow the child to freely draw!! Reason- you want to establish creativity... being overly stressful on profection will not allow that to happen.  

Lesson 2: Panda Bears

I recommend reading this very cute little story by Matthew Baek ~'Polar Bear and Panda." The author delivered a creative story that gave insight in regards to differences between two 'culturally' different bears. What made this fictional based book an interesting read... is the fact, you can possibly relate the story towards actual people and other various cultural groups. *I find that to be a great discussion for the older students*
With that, another book ~ 'New Neighbors' maintained a similar situation. Stan and Jan Berenstain, I believe did a great job designing the story with regards towards understanding differences while at the same time realizing that 'We' share a lot of similiaries and interests. Both books are worth the read as they help children open their eyes towards accpetance.
Activity 1: Paper Plate Panda
Material:
• Two Paper Plates
• Black Water Color Paint
• Paint Brush
• Two large wiggly eyes
• Tacky glue
• Stapler
• One Black Pipe Cleaner
• Black construction paper

Hot glue gun *optional

Directions:

Step 1: Cut 2 medium size black ovals.

Step 2: Glue the black ovals on the paper plate (towards the top)

Step 3: Glue the wiggly eyes on the black ovals.

Step 4: Cut two 3 inch black ovals. (Ears)

Step 5: Glue the ears on the back of the top portion of the plate.

*The tacky glue worked better than regular white clue

Step 7: Cut the pipe cleaner in half. With a half-twirl the pipe cleaner.

Step 8: Either with the hot glue gun or tacky glue... glue the twirled pipe cleaner lower and between the eyes. (nose)

Step 9: Cut the remaining pipe cleaner in half. Hot glue one of the pieces straight down from the nose and curve the other for the mouth.

Step 10: Now, for the second paper plate. Make two black stripes.

Step 11: Water-Color Black on the upper and lower end of the plate. Set to dry.

Step 12: Once dry glue the head of the bear onto the body.

Step 13: Cut two black medium size ovals for the arms and two small 'L' shapes for the legs.

Step 14: Glue the arms and legs onto the body.

* Depending on the paper plate you may have to staple the head and body together.

Read: "Panda Bear, Panda, What do you see?" By: Eric Carle and Bill Martin, Jr.
Another fun book from one my favorite illustrators ~ Eric Carle! Colorful story!!
Activity 2: Panda Jar
Materials:
• One plastic jar (Recyle a jar...We used glass)
• One large piece of both black and white tissue paper.
• 1 pencil or paintbrush
• 1 large piece of black construction paper
• Tacky glue
• Scissors
• Two medium size wiggly eyes.
• Black and Red Crayon
• Tape

Step 1: Scrunch up the black and white tissue paper.
Step 2: Stuff the tissue down using the pencil or paintbrush.

Step 4: Cover the lid with black tissue paper. Secure with tape underneith.

Step 5: Cut
-- One white Bear Head
-- Four black ovals (eyes & ears)
-- Another two black ovals (arms)
-- Two 'L' shapes (legs)
*Make a small slit on the bottom of each piece.
*Tape if necessary.
Step 6: Glue the wiggly eyes and draw the nose & mouth.
**Enjoy!

Activity 2:  Playdoh Panda
Material: 
-  Black and White Playdoh

Directions: 
Have fun rolling the playdoh together.

"Busy Panda" by:  John Shindel
Pictures by:  Lisa and Mike Husar

This is a delightful and simple read.  The pictures are adorable!

Read: 
 "Mama Mama" by:  Jean Marzollo
Pictures by:  Laura Regan. 
This book is a simple and attractive read.  Great for bedtime!!

Lesson 3: Brown Bear

Pick up a Book and Read Something
Yay!! Another Eric Carle and Bill Martin Jr. book
“Brown Bear, Brown Bear What do You see?”
The large visuals attract children in many ways, especially the young readers. The 40^th Anniversary Edition comes with the CD, which is read by Gwyneth Paltrow. I have recently added ‘Book Reports’ within my lesson plans for my son – he gathers a lot from listening to someone other than myself. **He enjoys listening to the books on CD.
A fun activity to go along with this… My son and I acted out the animals within the story ~ fun time… and loving memories.  In addition, we changed the names of the bears we were acting out for example the Sun Bear ~ We would lay on the floor pretending we were laying out on a tree branch. 
I found ‘Our Three Bears’ by: Ron Hirschi to be an outstanding book. The visuals within stood out in ways that you can’t help but stare. Read and Use this book as a resource for the following bears mentioned
~ Black Bear, Grizzly, and the Wonderful Polar Bear~

Within you will gather information regarding:
- Where and How they Live
- Hibernation information and various other - Specific Bear Facts

Activity 1: "Paper Plate Brown Bear"

Materials:

- 1 Paper Plate *Note- don't use styrofoam  - we did- doesn't work very well.

- Brown Washable Paint

- Newspaper

- Smock or old t-shirt.

- 2 large wiggly eyes

- 2 medium size brown construction paper circles

- 1 large black construction paper oval

- sissors

- glue bottle

- water

Directions:

1. Set up the table (newspaper on the table, child in the smock or t-shirt, and paint out).
2. Paint the paper plate brown. Set to dry.
3. Glue the medium size circles on the opposite side of the plate 3 inches apart. (These are the ears).
4. Glue the large black oval in the middle of the plate.
5. Glue the two large wiggly eyes up above the black oval.
6. With a dark brown or black- Start from the black oval- draw a short line straight down and then, a smile.
7. Enjoy your Painted Bear. 

Read:

"Amazing Bears"

   by: Theresa Greenaway Photographs By: Dave King.

This is an outstanding book that visually illustrated the various bears throughout different the photographs. Again, the information would need to be modified.

2. “Bears" by: Helen Gilks and AndrewBale This 'Big' book has large visuals that would be interesting for a little one. My son, loved looking at the cover photo, especially at the eyes.
The content would need to be modified depending on the age of the child.

Actvity 2:  Pinecone Bears

(One of my personal favorite througout the unit... who am I kidding?!? They all are...because I am doing them with my loving little man)

Mr. & Mrs. Pinecone

Materials:

-  Small/Medium Size Pinecone

-  Hot Glue Gun

-  2 Medium Size Wiggly Eyes

-  Red and Black pipe cleaners

-  Small oval shape brown construction paper and rounded nose.

Directions:

1.  Place the pinecone in an upwards position. 

2.  Turn on the hot glue gun. (adult only)

2.  Set up the material:  Cut all of the pipe cleaners in 2-3 inches each.

3.  Cut the brown construction paper in an oval.

4.  Cut a small rounded brown construction paper for the nose.

5.  Glue on face.  (Mainly the adult due to the glue) 

6.  Little one can curl the pipe cleaner nose, glue on the ears, and the little part of the nose.

:) My son placed them this way, "They are talking, Mommy"

Activity 3:  Footprint Bear
*Another Favorite

Woooohoooo Very Very Cute!!!

 Materials:
-  Brown Washable Paint
-  Ribbon of choice
-  2 Medium size Wiggly eyes
-  Tacky Glue
-  1 Black marker
-  3 inch Ribbon

Directions

1.  Paint the childs foot or lightly step on the paint
2.  Gently place the foot on the paper
3.  Paint small arms and legs
3.  Wash up
4.  Once dry- Glue the wiggly eyes and red ribbon mouth
5.  Draw the nose
6.  Make a bow out of the ribbon- Glue on the bear.
Activity 4:  Brown Salt Bear
Materials:

-  bear template or draw a bear
-  1/4 cup of salt
-  1 tablespoon of brown paint
-  glue
-  2 large wiggly eyes
-  black marker
-  glue stick
-  black construction paper

Directions:

1.  Mix the salt and brown paint gently together
2.  Glue the entire bear with the glue stick
3.  Rub the salt mixture all over the bear.
4.  Draw the black nose.
5.  Once dry- cut out
6.  Glue on the black construction paper
7.  Glue the eyes on.


This is a fun activity. 
The salt gives the craft a fuzzy feel!

This project is great for tactile exposure!!

Activity 5:  Hibernation/Cave:  Paper Plate Story Bear

 

This simple craft made a lot of sense to my little one.  He understood the definition and concept regarding ‘hibernation’ very well.   First, I read a story from one of the provided books and pointed to the bears that were hibernating…. Afterwards, we really focused on where the different bears hibernate (i.e. “Caves”, “Dens”, etc.)    

Materials:

-  Bear Template
-  Glue Stick
-  One Paper Plate

Directions:

1.  Color, Cut, and Glue the Bear Template on the plate
2.  Write what you would like on the plate (i.e. Outside: "The bear is getting sleepy." Inside:  "The bear is sleepy in a cave."

Activity 6:  Monart:  Brown Bear

Materials:
-  Brown Crayon
-  Brown Construction Paper

Directions:

Follow the same concept as the one above.

Lesson 4:  "Black Bear"

Read:  "Black Bear" by Daniel J. Cox.
Stunning Book that provides a outstanding visuals.

Reviews:


- Highly recommend
- Appealing to both young and old(er)
- Interesting photos

Activity 1:  Black Felt Bear

 Materials:
- Bear Template
- Black marker
- Tacky Glue
- Black felt bear
- Oval light brown shape
- Triangle black felt (Small)
- One (1 inch) thin black felt shape
- Two small wiggly eyes.
- 1 piece of brown construction paper
- pieces of grass and twigs


Directions:
1.  Prepare ahead of time the project (the template and the felt pieces.
2.  Glue the nose, mouth, eyes, bear, grass, and twigs on the construction paper.
3.  Allow to Dry.

*The same could be done for the Sloth Bear, Sun Bear, and/or the Spectactled Bear.

-Just discuss the differences.

Read: 

 “Bears! Bears! Bears!” by:Bob Barner. This book is colorful and informative for the young reader. It has short sentences that end with the use of rhyme.The last page, briefly describes each bear that corresponds with an appropriate photo. 

Discussion: Talk about the Spectacted Bears while eating vegtables ( a popular diet amongst the beautiful animals).

More fun Clips:

Sloth Bears:  http://youtu.be/Yy98QoBRZrE

Sun Bears:  http://youtu.be/US8Gx9T6lUA

*Compare and Contrast the video clips with the book *

Lesson 5:  Math Lesson
Activity 1:  Graphing with Bears

Materials:
- Graph Chart
- Gummy Bears

Directions:
1.  Hand the child a few gummy bears.
2.  Help the child graph.
3.  Once finished ask about which one has "more", "less", and/or "the same." In addition, ask "What are we doing?"  "Graphing"

* My son and I practiced this for a week straight. 
* What was great we did this after dinner - the gummy bears were a 'sugar free desert'.

Activity 2:  Gummy Bear Sort

Materials:
-  (4-5) small napkins
-  An assorment of  gummy bears (pref. sugar free)

Directions:
1.  Have the child sort the bears by color.
2.  Ask the child what he/she is doing.
3.  Ask which one has "more", "less", and "the same"and/or "egual"

*Be sure to use vocabulary words and concept of the lessons... "Sorting" "Sorting by Color", etc.


***This is one unit that can go and on.... I hope that you were able to get a few ideas regarding the topic.  Once again, I thank you for looking at the site and remember I always welcome feedback***

-God Bless!






                              

 

~ Harvest Apples *Unedited

Julian, California

The Fall Season is the time for falling leaves, cool weather, laughter, and households filled with warmth, and lots of family love.  The blended togetherness of the combined elements support the ability to bring forth loving aromas, wonderful spices, and delicious baked goods.  One in particular, the juicy red apple.  

Hopefully, before starting this unit your little one will already be familiarized with the wholesome and healthy fruit.  If not, the activities below will present nutritious exposure, lesson creativity, and a few fun activities for little hands.  

Lesson 1:  Introduction to Apples

Read~ "Apples" by Gail Gibbons

~ Inside you will find colorful pictures and

~ Informative text (Depending on the age of the child- the information will need to be modified)

Activity 1:  Grocery Shopping

Yes, Grocery Shopping!!

Believe it or not ~ the grocery store *IS an educational world for bright eyes and open-minded creative little children.  Think about it the next time you walk through the wide doors of the usually packed world of 'FOOD'.

Once in... stand in the middle of the fruit and vegetables department.  Before you select your items- look around and ask yourself... 'What do I see?', 'What colors do I see?', 'What do I smell?'  Try exploring this colorful world through the use of your senses.

Now, if you are not shy... stoop down.  Look around- NOW, what do you see?  That is your child's visual experience on this field trip.  Think to yourself... 'What can they see, smell, etc.'  With that, guide your child around this bright big area through the use of questions * Make sure to use descriptive words during the process of gathering feedback.  In other words, you are checking for understanding.

Again, use the store as an educational and prepared lesson area.  Take advantage of it.  Follow along with a discussion~ 

• The colors of the environment.
• Similarities and Differences between the various fruit and vegetables.
• Allow the child to select and touch the food. *Note:  Only touch the food you are going to buy.
• Include a Counting activity ("How many apples do we have in the bag?")  

Activity 2:  Apple Selection

Depending on the child's age this activity should be modified.

With the older children-

-  Have a discussion regarding the different types of apples such as: Granny Smith, Gala, Washington, Golden Delicious, Fuji, Red Delicious, Honeycrisp, etc.

-  View the actual apples, cut some into pieces, taste the different varieties, tally the favorites, and finally graph the progress regarding each type of apple. 
- Another option- taste and graph Apple Cider verses Apple Juice. 

With the younger children-

-  Discuss the different colors, textures, and tastes.  *I suggest having actual examples ready prior to starting out along with using the basic colors first before including the color blends.

Example Lesson Delivery:

- Pick up the Red Apple.

- Discuss the texture on the outside.  (Ask open/ended questions.  Help with the Use of Descriptive words such as: Smooth, Bumpy, etc.)

- Wash, cut open, discuss, and taste the apples.

- Do this with all of the selected choices.

Graph the favorites.  I found when graphing- large visuals seem to engage the students longer.  Prepare the chart and apple cut outs ahead of time. 

Activity 3:  Individual Fruit Selection

When I take my little one out on the shopping adventure- I usually allow him to select new various fruit and vegetable options he would like to try.  The routine: I follow his little body to the area, hold the plastic bag, and watch him count the items he places in the bag.  He enjoys doing this.... not-to-mention; I completely LOVE watching him... Especially, when he talks about the fruit, asks about the fruit, gets incredibly excited about eating the fruit, and most of all wants to learn more about the fruit. 

I feel by doing this gives him a sense of pride about his personal healthy choices. 
**Be sure to include positive words and/or phrases such as:  "good for our bodies", "healthy", "helps you grow big and strong", etc.

Activity 4:  Paint an Apple

Materials:

• Apple Template or free draw one
• Red, Yellow, or Green Washable Paint
• Paint Brush
• Newspaper
• Child size smock or old clean t-shirt
• 1 Cup of water

Directions:

1. Set up the painting area. (Newspaper on the table, paint out, and water prepared)
2. Help the child get into the smock or t-shirt.
3. Paint the apple then, set to dry.

When 'lesson one' is complete, I highly recommend reading another apple story such as "Apples, Apples, Apples" by: Nancy Elizabeth Wallace or rereading the "Apples" book from above.  Go back-and-forth, by means of asking questions regarding the books and projects~ compare and contrast.  Ask the child what they have learned, noticed, liked, disliked, and so-forth. 

The follow-up process will assist within future activities, on top of gathering insight towards your delivery methods.  Meaning, if the child does not understand... you will need to slow down the information or modify the activities. 

The entire unit is supposed to be educational and fun ~ Not Stressful!!

Lesson 2:  Explore the Apple

Julian, California

Directions:

1. Take out, wash, and clean an apple.
2. Describe the out layer skin on the apple.
3. Discuss the anatomy of the apple both out/inner layer and 'Star' shaped found in the apple (cut the apple straight across in order to find the star).

Activity 1:  Apple Mobile

Materials:

• 1 Sheet of Red Construction Paper.
• 1/2 Sheet of White Construction Paper.
• 1/2 Sheet of Green Construction Paper.
• 1/2 Sheet of Brown Construction Paper.
• 3 pieces of 6 inch. red string.
• Single Hole-Puncher
• Pencil
• Black Marker
• Scissors
• Crayons
• Glue Stick

Directions:

1. Prepare the apple template. 
2. Draw an apple on the red paper with a pencil.
3. Draw a zigzag line straight across the middle of the apple.
4. On the white piece of paper - Starting on The Left Corner on one sheet -make an outward parenthesis shape --> ) , On the second piece do the same starting on the Right Corner --> (  ~ It should have something like this  ) (  (This is your core) 
5. Draw an oval with a point on one end on the green piece of paper (this is your leaf). Draw a stem shape on the brown sheet. 
6. Cut out all of the pieces. (Two apple pieces, stem, core, and leaf)
7. Help the child hole punch the bottom of the top apple piece along with the top of bottom apple piece. 
8. Hole punch the top and bottom of the white core.
9. Glue the stem and leaf on the top apple portion.
10. Tie a piece of string on the bottom portion of the top part of the apple.  Tie the other end of the same piece of string to the top portion of the core. (You should now have two connecting pieces)
11. Now do the same with another piece of string to the bottom of the core connecting to the bottom of the apple. 
12. Draw 2 skinny black ovals on the white paper for your seeds.  Another fun option:  Glue a few dried out seeds from previous apple projects.
13. Hang and Enjoy!!

Activity 2:  Shiny Apple

Materials:

• 1/4 Sheet of brown construction paper.
• 1 Sheet of black construction paper. Cut in half.
• 1/4 Sheet of green construction paper.
• 1/2 Sheet of shiny red paper.
• Glue bottle
• Glue stick
• Scissors
• Pencil or White Crayon
• Scissors
• Stapler (optional)

Directions:

1. Pre-cut the material if the child is not ready to cut.
2. On the black construction paper make two apple templates with the pencil or a white crayon.
3. Cut out the apples.
4. Inside the black apples- make a small apple template.  Cut out.  Set aside.
5. With the brown paper make a stem. 
6. With the green paper make a leaf.
7. With the glue stick - glue around the large apple. Stick on the red shiny paper with the glue. (You should be able to see the red through the paper.) 
8. Cut off the excess red paper.
9. Glue the stem and leaf on top of the red paper.
10. Glue and align the second large black apple on top of the first using the glue bottle.  (Remember:  "Dot Dot Not a Lot") *Note: This will be a little slippery so, you might have to staple. *Usually I like to wait until the project is completely dry before hanging... however, my son did not... reason for the staples.
11. Set aside and let dry. 

Lesson 3:  Fun with Apples

I admit it!  I am the least artististic person I know... However, that does not inhibit my wanting to get into the midst of things~ especially projects!!  Paint, glitter, glue, scissors, smiles, laughter, messy hands, dirty clothes, and lots more... I am ALL in!!  Those who have worked with me ~ definitely know this about me.  I think by having this personality feature certainly makes up for my lack of artistic ability.

Yes, I may hold the worst Artistic Ability Award--- that does not mean that I don't have any Creativity.  In my mind, there is a BIG difference!  (Great ideas in the brain... sometimes the delivery does not come out right!) That is one of the many reasons why I love most about working with young children- they could care less about perfection.  I found that as long as you are working together the outcome does not matter. 

**So take hold, explore, and use your imagination!

A few fun books to include within this part of the unit~ 'Apple Here' By: Will Hubbell, 'Apples' By:  Ken Robbins, and 'I am an Apple" By:  Jean Marzollo.

Activity 1:  Apple Prints.

This is a very simple activity.  It is also great for the fine motor skills.

Materials:

• Red, yellow, green, and orange washable paint.
• Sliced apples.
• Apple stars (Apples cut across)
• Paper plates
• Child sized smock or old clean t-shirt.
• Newspaper
• White Construction Paper.

Directions:

1. Set up the area.  (Child in smock, newspaper on the table, and drops of paint on the paper plate.)
2. Dip the apples slices into the paint.   (Remember: Less is more)
3. Blot the dipped apples on the paper.
4. Allow the child to have fun.  **Encourage Creativity.
5. Set to dry.
6. Discuss the shapes that were formed. 

Activity 2:  Stain Glass Apples

Materials:

• Torn or cut pieces of red construction paper.
• 1/4 Sheet of brown construction paper.
• 1/4 Sheet of green construction paper.
• 2 Sheets of Black construction paper for the Apple Cut outs. 
• Glue Stick.
• Scissors
• Plastic Wrap or Wax Paper. (Enough to cover the black apples)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Black apples (Make them out of the black construction paper, then, another apple inside the big apple.  Finally, cut out the inner portion of the apple)
2. Tear or cut the red paper. *Great for fine motor skills
3. Glue the plastic wrap or wax paper on one of the apples. (Place the black apple on the table, apply the glue (glue stick) around the apple, then, lay the wrap or wax paper on top of it.)
4. Glue the red pieces on the plastic wrap or wax paper.  Set aside to dry.
5. Cut a small stem out of the brown paper - and leaf out of the green.
6. Glue the second (non-waxed) apple onto the first one.  *Make sure they are aligned.
7. Cut off the excess wrap or wax paper off.
8. Stick on the stem and leaf on the top portion of the apple.
9. Set to completely dry.

Activity 3:  Counting.

Materials:

• Stain Glass Apple

Directions:

1. Count all of the red shapes inside the apple. 

Activity 4:  Torn Apple Mosaic

Materials:

• 1 sheet of red construction paper.
• 1/4 sheet of green construction paper.
• 1/4 Sheet of brown construction paper.
• Apple Template  
• Glue Stick

Directions:

1. Tear the red, green, and brown paper into small little pieces.  
2. Glue all of the torn pieces onto the apple in the correct spots.
3. Have fun and Hang up

Lesson 4:  Harvest Fun!!

It is important to inform young children that apples do not come from, originate in, or grow in the back of the grocery store.  (*I have witnessed people do exactly the opposite... or just not say anything at all.)  When going through this entire unit you may decide to do 'Lesson 4' first ~ up to you.  'Lesson 4' was specifically placed because I felt that little ones in particular, should become better familiarized with the fruit itself.  I have personally taught this lesson in a variety of ways. 

Hopefully, within the previous discussion explaining where apples come and grow from will already be on the minds of the little ones. 

With that, let the adventurous fun begin!

Start off by reading~ "How do Apples Grow" by: Betsy Maestro and "Up,Up, Up! It's Apple Picking Time" By:  Jody Ficks Shapiro.

Activity 1:  Field Trip

If I am not adding some sort of project, craft, or realia... you can be absolutely sure, I have planned a field trip!!

This one does not disappoint!!

I recommend visiting an apple orchard at least once in your lifetime.  In this case, my husband and I took our son to a beautiful little country town ~ Julian, California.  This town had a touch of quaint simplicity that held the down home feel very well~ all the way from the pine trees, barbecue food, western boots, to the baking apples that filled the little stores.  Not-to-mention, that it was a perfect sunny day to visit day. 

It must be noted that decent and flourished apple orchards are open during the early fall season.  (Early to mid-October would be the best month to visit.) 

While on our field trip several things were discussed~ the apple trees, the amount of people that were visiting the orchard, the mixture of people, the large number of families that were together picking the apples, and the actual apples.

Our son had such a fun time.  We walked throughout the orchard looking and picking up "baby apples" as my little three-year-old called them.  It was such a joy in order to take time out of our busy lives to share a fun and educational experience together as a family!!

Activity 2:  Apple Tree Thumbs

Materials:

• Red and Green Paint
• 1/2 Sheet of brown construction paper.
• 1 sheet of white construction paper.
• 1 child-size smock or old clean t-shirt.
• Glue stick
• Pencil
• Scissors

Directions:

1. Draw and cut out a tree trunk with branches on the brown construction paper.  Glue onto the white piece of paper. (*Does not have to be perfect.)
2. Paint green thumb prints all over the tree branches. (Leaves)
3. Once the leaves are semi-dry - paint small apples prints (the little finger works the best).
4. You can add some green or red prints on the ground.
5. Set to dry.

Activity 2:  Store vs. The Orchard

Materials:

• 2 - 3 Store Bought Apples
• 2 - 3 Orchard Apples
• Apple Slicer 

Directions:

1. Compare the similarities and differences amongst the apples such as the looks, different tastes, and other noticeable features (i.e. The store bought will be smooth and shiny versus the harvest apples they will be dull and bumpy.)

*Fun Suggestion:  Plant an Apple Tree

Lesson 5:  Apple Extras
Activity 1: Johnny Appleseed

Read ~ "Johnny Appleseed" by Steven Kellogg  
 -  Colorful Illustrations
 -  Creative theme
 -  Informative
  * My son absolutely loved this story - due to the fact, he wanted me to read it almost daily!

Majority of the time Mr. Johhny Appleseed is discussed and often referenced when the "Apple" topic comes about as well as it should be.  Include a discussion when  

After the story and discussion ~ watch the brief and very informative YouTube video about Johnny Appleseed, Cider, and Apple Farms.  The video is appropriate for the older children.

 Activity 2:  Baked Cinnamon Apples Slices

Ingredients and Materials:

• 1 Baking Sheet
• 3 Apples (sliced)
• Cinnamon powder
• Pam Spray

Directions:

1. Wash and slice the apples
2. Spray the bottom of the baking sheet with the Pam Spray.  Set aside.
3. Place the apples on the sheet.
4. Sprinkle cinnamon all over the apples.  *You can add a little sugar.
5. Bake at 350' for approximately 20 minutes *varies with each oven
6. Be sure to not overcook. 
7. Enjoy!!  

Activity 3:  Rice Krispie Apple Treats
Ingredients and Materials:

• Two small cooking pots
• 1 bag of white marshmallows
• 1 -2 cups of rice krispies
• 1 large spoon
• 1 large cookie sheet
• Pam spray
• Red and green food coloring

Directions:

1. Melt 1 cup of marshmallows in one pot.
2. Once melted stir in 1 cup of rice krispies slowly.
3. Add 3-4 drops of red food coloring.
4. Pour on the cookie sheet.  
5. Roll two tablespoons of rice krispies together in a ball. Set aside.
6. Malt 1/2 cup of marshmallows in the other pot.
7. Melt- stir in 1/2 cup of rice krispies slowly.
8. Add 2-3 drops of the green food coloring.
9. Set on the other side of the cookie sheet.
10. Take 1 teaspoon and form in an oval shape. 
11. Set the oval on top of the red ball.
12. Enjoy your 'Apple Krispie Treat'

Activity 2:  Sight Word Apple Tree

Be creative and Have fun.  A great centerpiece for the reading area once finished! 

Materials:

• 1 large paper bag
• Tape
• 2 sheets of brown construction paper
• The number of pre-made apples the child knows.  (Write the Words on them)
• Red, green, and yellow crayon.
• You can make the apples or find a template online.

Directions: 

1. Have the child color the apple sight words.
2. Cut out the apples.
3. Cut up the brown bag- make sure to make some large skinny pieces for the 'branches'.
4. Take the brown construction paper cut to form a trunk and the base of the tree.
5. Wrinkle up the brown bag onto the wall.  Add the branches all over on top.  Be creative.
6. You are now ready to add the apples... go through one-by-one... have the child read them while he/she hands them to you.  *My son and I played a little game - I had the apples in a container...he handed them to me, read the words, I taped, and he then stuck the word onto the branch.

Activity 6:  Counting Seeds.

Materials: 

• 10 (ten)  1/4 sheets of white construction paper. 
• Glue bottle
• 55 clean and dried out apple seeds

Directions:

1. Pre-draw an apple along with a number (1-10) on each paper.  The number can be either dashed or solid.
2. Have the child say and trace the number.
3. Glue the corresponding seeds on the cards (1 = 1 seed, etc.)

Finally!!!

Follow-Up! Follow-UP!! and Yes, Follow-UP!!!
It is very important to follow-up with any and all lessons ~ doing so, will not only help you far as delivery... it will guide you towards what works when designing future lessons!  Not-to-mention, it will help the child remember what was taught. 

Lastly,
~ Read "Ten Apples up on Top" By: Dr. Seuss... a fun and creative story.


~ Remember~
I welcome feedback, ideas, and creative thoughts!!