Mel Friedman (1)

This nonfiction book has it all...large and easy-to-read type, interesting facts, historical photographs and drawings, and a thorough discussion of both the good and bad consequences of the Gold Rush. Author Mel Friedman's chapter "Gold Fever" explains why travel to California was so dangerous (sinking ships, cholera, etc.). "The Dark Side" chapter addresses the harsh treatment of Native Americans, Californios and Chinese during the Gold Rush as well as the frequently occurring violence at show more the mines. The author also mentions the environmental consequences the use of hydraulic mining caused. Resources at the back of the book include a page of fun statistics, suggested books for further reading, possible websites to peruse, and a glossary. Both struggling and fluent readers will appreciate this easy, but informative book. show less

After a family’s cat has a litter of kittens, the young girl is doing everything in her power to keep the kittens. Because they are young the kittens tend to get into trouble and make messes. The father does not want any of that going on so he gives the girl an ultimatum. Either she must find a way to keep the kittens under control or they have to leave. The young girl is bound and determined to find a way to keep the kittens. She solves her problem by using geometry shapes to come up with show more a house for the kittens. She used different shaped boxes to fit each of the kittens needs.

I liked this book because it was an easy read aloud. The illustrations were entertaining as well. The book does a great job of incorporating math into the literature without the kids even realizing it.

You could obviously use this book for many different lesson plans. You could use it over kittens or homes. I believe that the most beneficial lesson plan for this book would be in a math lesson plan over shapes. You could also have the kids build their own castle out of block or draw this. This book could be used to build many skills in your classroom. show less

Summary: This stroy is about a little girl whos family cat has four kittens. Her did isnt sure he wants these kittens so she decides to make a castle for the kittens to live in that is special to each kitten. In the end the dad lets her keep them.

Personal Response: I enjoyed this book. It was colorful and had great illistrations. This book was a great book for teaching geometric shapes.

Classroom Extension Ideas: I could have a math lesson teaching geometric shapes. Also I could do an art show more project having the kids create a home for a pet of theirs. show less

Lots of good information but too much text for reluctant readers.