Picture Books and Read Alouds Across the Curriculum

Picture books have the potential for bringing together ideas, images, content, vocabulary, language, and arts in the minds of any learner. Below you'll find descriptions of four picture books that could help support different units of study in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.

Language Arts - ALLITERATION
The Worrywarts
Written by Pamela Duncan Edwards
Illustrated by Henry Cole

The Worrywarts is a fun book to read, and it is just as clever in the use of alliteration. Wombat asks Weasel and Woodchuck to go on a walk with her on Wednesday. Wombat is a worrier and that habit rubs off on her friends as they walk. Every time a new worry creeps up, the font is enlarged to help the reader know to use his or her voice with the text.

Mathematics - FRACTIONS
Fraction Action
Written and Illustrated by Loreen Leedy

Have fractions ever proved to be difficult for some students? Well, then pull this book off the shelf and begin to teach the concept through the cartoons in this picture book. The text has a running commentary, but it is the cartoons that teach. At first, the pages appear to be busy, but take the time to examine them carefully. It is really a clever way to explain how fractions work.

Science - LANDFORMS
The Forest in the Clouds
Written by Sneed B. Collard III
Illustrated by Michael Rochman

After reading this book about a tropical rain forest high up in the mountains of Costa Rica, students will become fascinated with the existence and will want to learn how the ecosystem there is being threatened. In fact, the author tells us this cloud filled landform is the most threatened area on Earth. The detailed artwork of Rochman visually depicts the story as it unfolds page by page. Students will get to meet animals they’ve never heard of that make their homes in the mountains. A glossary at the back will help them understand this unique environment. This is one for your science shelf that you don’t want to miss. You can launch an extensive study of caring for the Earth and protecting our environment by reading this one.

Social Studies - IN THE TIME OF SLAVERY
Christmas in the Big House, Christmas in the Quarters
Written by Patricia C. McKissack and Frederick L. McKissack

The McKissacks provide the stark contrast between the events of “Big Times” (Christmas) in the plantation owner’s big house and those of the slaves who lived in the quarters. The hauntingly beautiful language richly describes the traditions and scenes of the holidays in the mid-1800s. This is not a one sitting read-aloud so plan for a few installments. Take your time and savor the beautiful art that so aptly brings the story alive.