Eugene Gagliano

Summary: This is a number book taking kids through interesting facts, natural wonders and the history of Wyoming. Students learn about the Equality State through a simplistic sing-song poem for each number 1-12, and then 20, 30, etc. through 100. The side notes include more details about interesting facts, so this is a perfect book for K-3 students and offers more in depth information for grades 3-6 students.

Personal Response: I love the illustrations and simplistic set-up of this nonfiction text. It looks more like a picture book, and less informative, which I know a lot of students would engage more easily with. I liked this book because I could choose to read just the simple informative poems, or engage deeper with the really great facts on the side. I liked using this book in that way with my 3rd grade students.

Curriculum Connections: I used sections of this book to teach research skills to third graders. They were working on their pioneer unit and history of Campbell County, WY for the past six weeks. I informed students that in order to research a subject, they needed to be able to pull the most important information found in a book, and take notes. This book was my introduction into how we approach “whole group” research.… (more)