integrating language arts and science with social studies

Trout Lily by Esmeralda Gutierrez

We chose from a variety of books with social studies related topics including landmarks, environmental issues, and diversity, so we could come up with some activities to go along with the book. I choose a book called, On Meadowview Street. It is about a girl who moves into a new neighborhood on Meadowview Street. Her dad was mowing the backyard and the girl told him to mow around a flower that she saw. She put out some poles around the flower with ropes to keep it from being cut. The area that she blocked off kept betting bigger and bigger, until pretty soon, her dad had no use for his lawnmower. They made a little pond in the back and it filled with animals. They even let their front yard grow out. The neighbors started preserves on their yards as well.

may apples by Esmeralda Gutierrez

The social studies standard that went well with the activities I planned was, 2.3.7 Identify ways that recreational opportunities influence human activity in the community.

L.A. 

R.L.3 Describe how characters in a story respond to major events and challenges.

Science
2.3.1   Observe closely over a period of time and then record in pictures and words the changes in plants and animals throughout their life cycles-including details of their body plan, structure and timing of growth, reproduction and death.

2.3.2   Compare and contrast details of body plans and structures within the life cycles of plants and animals.

Engagement Activity:
Students will be asked to draw their own nature preserve. They will also do a wildflower study where they will learn about a wildflower of their choice, including if their flower would be able to thrive in their backyard or where it is most likely to thrive. Students will also learn more about wildflowers through books, video clips, websites, and a trip to a nature preserve. When visiting the nature preserve, students can take pictures of wildflowers and other aspects of it. It resources permit, students can grow their own flower garden and study how the flowers grow and change.

Dutchmen's Britches by Esmeralda Gutierrez