Old Bear

Written and Illustrated by Kevin Henkes. Henkes is a popular children's book author and illustrator awarded with the Caldecott Medal and Newbery Honor for his works.  Growing up he thought he would become an artist when a teacher encouraged him in his writing.  He has since had a successful career in children's literature.

Genre: Fiction
Theme: Animals/Seasons
Ages: 3 - 6

Summary: This story is about a bear that goes into hibernation for the winter.  While he sleeps he dreams of each of the four seasons and what makes them beautiful.  When he awakes, he doesn't realize how much time has passed and that it has stopped snowing and it is lovely spring already.



Link to Picture

Pre-Reading Activity:Talk to students about the changes in weather as winter is approaching.  Ask what they have noticed is different in the weather, or if they have seen any changes with the animals.  See if students understand the concept of hibernation offer some background knowledge if necessary.

Post-Reading Activity: Have students do a writing activity about what their favorite season of the year is and why.  They will have to give one description of what the season is like, and why they enjoy it. Or have students complete a science activity sheet on what are the four seasons and what order do they cycle in.

Reflection: This is a sweet story that talks about the seasons and a bears hibernation.  It is great to do a science content area literature text.