Descriptions Grade Three
The following books are included in the Grade Three AnimalTales package.
Sonya's Chickens
Phoebe Wahl
Sonya’s Chickens tells the story of a young girl dealing with the loss of one of her chickens. One morning, Sonya wakes to discover a missing chicken, which she learns from her father, was taken by a fox. While consoling Sonya, her father informs her of the reason the fox took the chicken which leads to Sonya discovering some important truths about the interconnectedness of nature. Students may relate to the feelings experienced when losing a pet and will have opportunities to empathize with Sonya. Students can also see the story from the perspective of the fox, which can help build understanding and empathy.
Students will:
- explore the perspective of an animal
- express empathy and compassion to help others with grief associated with loss
- identify the life stages and needs of chickens
- discuss owner responsibility in ensuring a safe environment for animals in our care
Buddy Unchained
Daisy Bix
Buddy Unchained tells the story of a once mistreated dog living in a new home. Buddy lives with a family who takes great care of him, but that was not always the case. Buddy was found one winter day chained outside, and it was not until Buddy was helped from his situation that he started to feel cared for. Students will be introduced to the concept of animal protection and how laws help to protect animals from mistreatment. Students will discuss what they can do if they are concerned about the welfare of an animal.
Students will:
- identify the requirements of a responsible pet owner
- identify the consequences to pets facing neglect
- discover solutions to possible problems arising from pet ownership
- list positive actions that could make a difference on animals, the environment, and communities
Tanna's Owl
Rachel and Sean Quitsualik-Tinsley
Tanna’s Owl tells the story of Tanna, a girl who learns to appreciate owls. At first, Tanna was disappointed her father brought home a baby owl that required care. Tanna thought the owl was ugly, and did not enjoy how the owl ate ‘gross’ food. As the story progresses and Tanna becomes more familiar with the owl, her appreciation for the owl grows. Then one day, the owl becomes old enough to fly away. As we become familiar with someone or something (this can apply to animals, people, and the environment), we become more understanding and empathetic. The lessons from this book can apply to all animals, other people, and the earth we share.
Students will:
- identify examples of animals that have cultural significance
- research how animals communicate their feelings through behaviour and body language
- compare the needs of domestic animals to the needs of wildlife
- identify the difference between caring for a wild animal and caring for a pet
It's Raining Cats and Cats!
Jeanne Prevost
It’s Raining Cats and Cats! tells a story about what could happen if a cat is permitted to have litters upon litters of kittens. The story begins with a boy, Jim, concerned about his cat after returning home from getting spayed. Jim asks his mother why Molly got spayed. To help Jim understand the answer to his question, his mother encourages him to ponder what would happen if Molly didn’t have the operation. Students will discover the importance of spaying or neutering pets and how it is a component of being a responsible pet owner. Learning about and recognizing the value of responsibility can empower students to make good choices for themselves and consider how their actions affect others, animals, and the environment.
Students will:
- identify the benefits of having pets spayed or neutered
- discuss the impacts of animal overpopulation
- calculate the resulting population of cats if they are not spayed or neutered
- discuss owner responsibility for ensuring a safe environment for all pets
