Grand View Elementary School Library Manhattan Beach California

Read-Alouds and Presentations Week to Week by Grade Level

5/22/2023

Week of May 22, 2023 | TK | Vacation Plans

Goldfish on Vacation, by Sally Lloyd-Jones
Three goldfish live in a small bowl, in an apartment building, in the middle of a big city, until one summer they get to go on vacation--in a fountain, with lily pads, and reeds, and other neighborhood goldfish. Based on true events in New York City.

The real Hamilton Fountain in New York City Named after Robert Ray Hamilton (1850-1890), the great-grandson of Alexander Hamilton. He gave the fountain as a place for city horses to have a drink. Located at Riverside Drive and 76th Street.

Crafty Connection Goldfish coloring sheet

At-Home Activity Step-by-step video demonstration of how to draw a goldfish in a bowl

Week of May 22, 2023 | Kindergarten | We Love to Help at Home

Put it on the List, by Kristen Darbyshire
When family members see the consequences of forgetting to write things on the grocery list, they not only do better at keeping the list up-to-date, they also help with the shopping.

The LIttle Red Hen, by Paul Galdone
In this classic folk tale, four friends live together in a cozy little house. The trouble is, only one of them does any work! The rest of them like to lie around the house all day. Do you think that's fair?

Video The Little Red Hen, presented by StoryTime at Awnie's House (running time 5:57)

Kitchen Connection Basic vanilla butter cake recipe with coloring sheet

Week of May 22, 2023 | First Grade | Puppy Fun

Videos Cuteness overload French bulldogs and toy poodles

Gaston, by Kelly DiPucchio
A proper bulldog raised in a poodle family and a tough poodle raised in a bulldog family meet one day in the park.

Antoinette, by Kelly DiPucchio
Raised in a family of talented bulldogs, Antoinette the poodle wonders what makes her special. She gets the chance to prove herself and find what she's good at when puppy Ooh-La-La goes missing

Crafty Connection Color and cut out dog ears to attach to hair with tape

Week of May 22, 2023 | Second Grade | Summer Reading

Legend of Spud Murphy, by Eoin Colfer
When their mother drops them off at the library several afternoons a week, nine-year-old William and his brother dread the overbearing librarian, but are surprised at what they discover. Chapter 3 of 5.

Crafty Connection Step-by-step directions to draw and color a swimming pool

Week of May 22, 2023 | Third Grade | When Things Don't Go Right

My Brother Louis Measures Worms and Other Louis Stories, by Barbara Robinson
Mary Elizabeth relates the humorous misadventures of her brother Louis in this collection of short stories featuring two very responsible children who somehow find themselves at the center of chaos.
This week part 2 of 2: Louis at the Wheel.

The Rabbit Listened, by Cori Doerrfeld
When a child's block castle is destroyed, all the animals think they know just what to do, but the rabbit knows what the boy needs is someone to just listen.

Video OK Go This Too Shall Pass

Week of May 22, 2023 | Fourth Grade | Celebrating Memorial Day

Tucky Jo and Little Heart, by Patricia Polacco
A fifteen-year-old soldier in World War II meets a sweet young girl in the Philippines who helps him remember what he is fighting for as he helps her and others of her village avoid starvation. Many years later she returns his kindness. Part 2 of 2.

Crafty Connection Make a friendship bracelet with three braided pipe cleaners and five pony beads or even candy wrappers

Week of May 22, 2023 | Fifth Grade | Summer Reading Teaser

A Tale Dark and Grimm, by Adam Gidwitz
Hansel and Gretel walk out of their own story and into eight other classic Grimm-inspired tales as the siblings learn to take charge of their destinies and become the clever architects of their own happily ever after.

Video Hansel and Gretel are famous for eating a candy house. Candy is not gross, and, therefore, not awesome. But what if they ate a house of bugs? Ewww! Now THAT'S gross! The Case for Eating Bugs

Read-Alouds and Presentations Week to Week by Grade Level

5/8/2023

Week of May 8, 2023 | TK
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Ling & Ting, Not Exactly the Same! by Grade Lin
Video Author/illustrator Grace Lin reads the first chapter from the book (running time 3:38)
Sticking together through everything from getting haircuts and preparing dumplings to practicing magic tricks and using chopsticks, identical twin sisters Ling and Ting display distinctive differences in personality and preference despite their similar looks.

Crafty Connections Follow along with author/illustrator Grace Lin to draw the Rabbit in the Moon, and learn what is symbolized by the apple, the orange, and the peach. Grace Lin also offers a Ling & Ting paper doll template to print, color, and cut out.

Week of May 8, 2023 | Kindergarten
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Video How to Dim Sum, a Beginner's Guide

Dim Sum, Here We Come! by Maple Lam
In this yummy celebration of togetherness, love, family and food, a girl and her younger sister attend their weekly dim sum family gathering.

Crafty Connection Dim sum coloring sheet

Week of May 8, 2023 | First Grade
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

The Ugly Vegetables, by Grace Lin
A little girl thinks her mother's garden is the ugliest in the neighborhood until she discovers that flowers might look and smell pretty but Chinese vegetable soup smells best of all.

Crafty Connections Follow along with author/illustrator Grace Lin to draw the Rabbit in the Moon, and learn what is symbolized by the apple, the orange, and the peach. Grace Lin also offers an Ugly Vegetable coloring sheet.

Kitchen Connection Ugly Vegetable soup recipe

Week of May 8, 2023 | Second Grade
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Yoko, by Rosemary Wells
Yoko's mother packs her a lunch with all her favorite sushi, but the other kids jeer ("Yuck-o-rama!") at the raw fish and green seaweed, and Yoko is devastated. In a well-meaning attempt to foster understanding, the teacher announces they will have an International Day, and everyone will bring in a dish from a foreign country. Will anyone try Yoko's sushi?

Crafty Connection Sushi coloring sheet

No Kimchi for Me! by Aram Kim
Yoomi doesn't like the taste of spicy kimchi, but when Grandma makes kimchi pancakes, Yoomi considers changing her mind.

Kitchen Connection Recipe for Quick Kimchi Pancakes from Bon Appetit

Week of May 8, 2023 | Third Grade
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

The Many Colors of Harpreet Singh, by Supriya Kelkar
Harpreet wears different colored patkas to highlight how he feels each day. When it is time to move across the country, the color of his patka signals his unhappiness about the change, until chance helps him make a new friend with a special "hat" of her own.

Crafty Connection The numerals we use originated in India in the 6th or 7th century and were introduced to Europe through the writings of Middle Eastern mathematicians. Create a unique tile pattern using numbers drawn bubble style on a 4" x 4" paper folded diagonally twice. Start at the center and repeat around the paper. Use random numbers or numbers of significance such as an address or birthdate.

Week of May 8, 2023 | Fourth Grade
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Curriculum Connection: California History

Many businesses owned by people of Japanese heritage had to be sold in haste at a fraction of their worth

Manzanar internment camp, approx. 230 miles north of Los Angeles near Lone Pine

Photos such as this one by Dorothea Lange documenting the camps were impounded by the military for their sympathetic nature and remained largely unseen until 2006

Yoshito Wayne Osaki (1923-2015)

Background After Japan bombed Pear Harbor, Hawaii, in December 1941, Executive Order 9066 was signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in February 1942. The order led to the incarceration for the duration of the the war of 120,000 Japanese Americans living on the West Coast.

My Dog Teny, by Yoshito Wayne, Osaki
The true story about a boy and his dog and the friendship that they shared during the time of the forced evacuation of Japanese Americans during World War II. Originally published in 2001 as an essay in a collection of short stories by eleven Japanese American writers about their experiences as children and youth during World War II: "From Our Side of the Fence."

Mr. Osaki studied architecture at Berkeley after the War and designed stores, apartments, schools, and churches. In 1988, the U.S. Government apologized to the surviving internees from the camps. It admitted that the internment was due to racial prejudice, wartime paranoia, and poor leadership. The government also acknowledged that no Japanese American was ever found guilty of endangering the U.S. during World War II.

Week of May 8, 2023 | Fifth Grade
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
and Novel Study Continues

Gyo Fujikawa (1908-1998)

It Began with a Page: How Gyo Fujikawa Drew the Way, by Kyo Maclear
Growing up in a Japanese American family in California, Gyo Fujikawa enjoyed drawing. She studied art in college, traveled to Japan, and worked for Disney Studios in New York before beginning her career as an artist and picture-book illustrator. She is known for her inclusive illustrations of children, beginning with Babies (1963).

Video A Tale Dark and Grimm book trailer
A Tale Dark and Grimm, by Adam Gidwitz
Hansel and Gretel walk out of their own story and into eight other classic Grimm-inspired tales as the siblings learn to take charge of their destinies and become the clever architects of their own happily ever after (page 5-16).

Read-Alouds and Presentations Week to Week by Grade Level

1/30/2023

Week of January 30, 2023 | TK & Kindergarten
Getting Ready for the 100th Day of School

The Very Kind Rich Lady and Her One Hundred Dogs, by Chinlun Lee
The very kind rich lady cares for 100 lucky dogs!

Video Zero the Hero by Joan Holub book trailer
He's not a Froot Loop, a bagel or a doughnut... he's Zero the Hero!

Video How Krispy Kreme doughnuts are made
Speaking of doughnuts, let's find out how doughnuts are made at Krispy Kreme.

Video Arnie the Doughnut by Laurie Keller read by Chris O'Dowd
Arnie much more than an average doughnut, round, iced and deliciously sprinkled.

Crafty Connection Dog name coloring sheet

Week of January 30, 2023 | First Grade | Groundhog Day

Video History of Groundhog Day Discovery Education Streaming Video (password protected)
Find out the story behind Punxsutawney Phil and the history of Groundhog Day.

Brownie Groundhog and the February Fox, by Susan Blackaby
Brownie is waiting for spring and meets a fox... will Brownie be able to talk her way out of becoming a mid-winter snack?

Activity Groundhog Coloring Sheet

Kitchen Connection Groundhog Pudding Cups Turn pudding, cookies, and simple trimmings into the cutest treat ever!

Week of January 30, 2023 | Second Grade | Dinosaurs

Are the Dinosaurs Dead, Dad? by Julie Middleton
During a trip to the museum Dave keeps trying to get his dad's attention. The dinosaurs around him are springing to life!

What Happened to Patrick's Dinosaurs? by Carol Carrick
Patrick imagines that at one time dinosaurs were great friends of people and were responsible for building the world we enjoy today.

Tiny Dino, by Deborah Freedman
A small but mighty bird declares it is a dinosaur! But no one believes that dinosaurs still exist. How can it be a dinosaur when it is so little?

Video United Kingdom: Birds Related to Dinosaurs Discovery Education (password protected)
Scientists study the link between modern birds and dinosaurs.

Dinosaur vs. Bedtime, by Bob Shea
Roaar! Roaaaar! Nothing can stop him!

Crafty Connection Draw Bob Shea's dinosaur following these video step-by-step directions

Week of January 30, 2023 | Third Grade | Doing the Right Thing

A Bike Like Sergio's, by Maribeth Boelts
Money is tight for Ruben's parents so the chances of him getting the bike he want's are slim until he finds a hundred dollar bill. Finders keepers? Or honesty is the best policy?

Ben Rides On, by Matt Davies
When Ben rides his new bicycle the to school a bully takes it away from him and later, when Ben finds the bully in trouble, he must decide whether or not to help him.

Video Ben Rides On presented by Daisy Wallace (running time 3:37 min.)

Week of January 30, 2023 | Fourth Grade
SEL New Perspectives | Curriculum Connection Geology

Old Rock (is not boring) by Deb Pilutti
Tall Pine, Spotted Beetle, and Hummingbird are certain that being a rock is boring until Old Rock shares what he has seen and done since he first flew out of a volcano.

Rick the Rock of Room 214, by Julie Fatlatko
Tired of sitting all day on the Nature Finds shelf in Room 214, a rock named Rick escapes the classroom for the great outdoors, only to discover that sometimes the greatest adventure in life is friendship.

Crafty Connection Rock painting tutorial with suggested supplies, step-by-step and simple designs.

Week of January 30, 2023 | Fifth Grade
SEL Kindness | Curriculum Connection Information Literacy

Trevor, by Jim Averbeck
Lonely and looking for a friend, Trevor the canary stretches to the width of his boring cage and tries to befriend someone sitting on a branch outside the window

Adrian Simcox Does Not Have a Horse, by Marcy Campbell
Refusing to believe that a classmate has a horse of his own, Chloe becomes angry, calling him out at school and complaining about him to her mom, but instead of the vindication she wants, Chloe learns valuable lessons in empathy and imagination

Kitchen Connection Nothing says kindness like sharing batch of Banana Spice Cookies!

Killer Underwear Invasion: How to Spot Fake News, Disinformation, & Lies, by Elise Gravel
Kid-friendly wit and quirky illustrations break down what fake news is, why people spread it, and how to tell what is real and what isn't. Chapter 2 of 6 chapters presented this week.

Read-Alouds and Presentations Week to Week by Grade Level

12/19/2022

Week of December 19, 2022 | TK | Happy Hanukkah

Sammy Spider's First Hanukkah, by Sylvia A. Rouss
When the Shapiro family celebrates the eight nights of Hanukkah, Sammy Spider keeps his feet warm over the Menorah and yearns for a dreidel of his own.

Kitchen Connection Happy Hanukkah coloring sheet with simple latke recipe

Video Directions for At-Home Activity Use blue painter's tape to create a sticky web. Toss paper balls, balloons, and other objects to see what sticks! Click here

Week of December 19, 2022 | Kindergarten | Happy Hanukkah

I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Dreidel, by Caryn Yakowitz
A beloved grandmother spreads out a yummy Hanukkah supper only to develop an insatiable appetite that alarms her family, in a story augmented by parodies of art by such masters as da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Picasso.

Crafty Connection Color and cut out a paper dreidel

Kitchen Connection Happy Hanukkah coloring sheet with simple latke recipe

Week of December 19, 2022 | First Grade | Happy Hanukkah

The Magic Dreidels, by Eric A. Kimmel
When Jacob drops his new dreidel down the well a friendly goblin gives him magic dreidels that are stolen by the neighborhood busybody.

Writing Prompt If you had a magic dreidel, what would it spin out? Print the sheet

Week of December 19, 2022 | Second Grade | Happy Hanukkah

Runaway Dreidel! by Leslea Newman
In this rhyming tale a family's preparations for Hanukkah are disrupted by a wildly spinning dreidel that no one can catch.

Writing Prompt Write a descriptive new ending to explain where the dreidel went. Print the sheet

Week of December 19, 2022 | Third Grade | Happy Hanukkah

Hanukkah Bear, by Eric A. Kimmel
At 97 years old, Bubba Brayna does not hear or see too well, so when old Bear wanders into her house she mistakes him for the rabbi and treats him to a delicious helping of potato latkes.

Activity Sheet Help Old Bear find his way to Bubbe Brayna's house. Click here

Kitchen Connection Try this latke recipe from the back of the book. Click here

Directions for At-Home Activity Super simple instructions to finger crochet a cozy scarf. Click here

Week of December 19, 2022 | Fourth Grade | Happy Hanukkah

Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins, by Eric Kimmel
A resourceful traveler must use his wits to outsmart a pack of ghoulish goblins if he wishes to celebrate a bright and cheery Hanukkah.

Backstory Although what we know about Hershele Ostropolyer (1770?-1810 is based mostly on oral tradition and folklore, he was a real person, thought to have come from Balta, Ukraine. His name is based on the town of Ostropol in Poland where he served as a shohet (ritual slaughterer). According to legend, he lost his job because of his constant joking that offended some community leaders. He then wandered through Ukraine and eventually found his calling as a court jester, frequently mocking the rabbi and his associates but delighting the common folk.

Kitchen Connection Happy Hanukkah coloring sheet with simple latke recipe

Week of December 19, 2022 | Fifth Grade | Happy Hanukkah

The Ninth Night of Hanukkah, by Erica S. Perl
With the help of their new neighbors, two resourceful children are able to celebrate Hanukkah even though they can't find their usual menorah, latke pan, etc., and then are inspired to celebrate a ninth night of Hanukkah as a way to say thank you to everyone who has helped them.

Writing Activity In the spirit of the season, write a compliment to a family member, friend, or neighbor. Print out the example pictured above or design your own using a 3"x5" index card.

Kitchen Connection Happy Hanukkah coloring sheet with simple latke recipe

Read-Alouds and Presentations Week to Week by Grade Level

11/14/2022

Week of November 14, 2022 | TK | Gratitude & Food Fun

Thanks for Thanksgiving, by Julie Markes
At Thanksgiving time, children express their gratitude for the people and things in their lives.

The Beastly Feast, by Bruce Goldstone
All sorts of animals bring a variety of foods to share: bears bring pears, parrots bring carrots, mosquitoes bring burritos, mice bring rice, and so on!

Crafty Connection Trace "turkey hand" on reverse of Thanksgiving coloring sheet

Week of November 14, 2022 | Kindergarten | Manners & Dining Fun

Mind Your Manners, B.B. Wolf by Judy Sierra
Politeness and manners are always in good taste.

The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson
A clever mouse uses the threat of a terrifying creature to keep from being eaten by a fox, an owl, and a snake-- only to have to outwit that creature as well.

Crafty Connection Trace "turkey hand" on reverse of Gruffalo Crumble recipe and coloring sheet

Week of November 14, 2022 | First Grade | Step-by-Step Writing

Video Cranberry: How Does It Grow?
Time for Cranberries, by Lisl H. Detlefsen
A little boy helps his parents harvest cranberries on their family farm step by step: from flooding the field to preparing the vines for the picking machine to delivering the fruit to the receiving station.
Recipe Cranberry Pie recipe and coloring sheet

A Fine Dessert, by Emily Jenkins
Shows how food, technology, and families have changed throughout American history. Four families, in four cities, over four centuries, make the same dessert: Blackberry Fool. 1710 in Lyme, England. 1810 in Charleston, SC. 1910 in Boston, MA. Present day in San Diego, CA.
Video Instant whipped cream kitchen tool
Video Author/illustrator interview and recipe
Recipe Blackberry Fool recipe and coloring sheet

Week of November 14, 2022 | Second Grade | Harvest Fun/Gratitude

The Ugly Pumpkin, by Dave Horowitz
A lonely, oddly-shaped pumpkin is sad that no one chose him for Halloween, but he soon discovers where he belongs.

The Thankful Book, by Todd Parr
A celebration of the many things for which young children can be grateful, from everyday activities like reading and bath time to big family meals and special shared moments with parents.

Crafty Connection Draw or write a gratitude or two on the reverse of the Thanksgiving coloring sheet

Week of November 14, 2022 | Third Grade | Thanksgiving Traditions

Tony Sarg (1880-1942)

Felix the Cat 1927

Superman 1945

Balloons over Broadway, by Melissa Sweet
The story of puppeteer Tony Sarg, the man who first invented the helium balloons that have become the trademark of the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
After World War I, Sarg moved to New York City and quickly gained a reputation as a practical joker, the life of the party and a tireless worker. In his various ventures, the designer, inventor and illustrator worked on cartoons, children’s books, mechanical toys, advertising, and window displays and balloons.

Thanksgiving Day Parade History and Balloons of Today social.macys.com/parade
Crafty Connection Thanksgiving coloring sheet

Week of November 14, 2022 | Fourth Grade
Thanksgiving and Indigenous Traditions

Thanksgiving Is... by Gail Gibbons
Provides information about the origins and meaning of Thanksgiving in America, and describes many of the symbols and traditions associated with the holiday, including feasts and parades.

Website The National Women's History Museum provides a brief biography of Sarah J. Hale (b. New Hampshire 1788-d. Pennsylvania 1879)
Thank You, Sarah, by Laurie Halse Anderson
Relates how Sarah Hale, a magazine editor and author, persuaded President Lincoln to transform Thanksgiving Day into a national holiday.

Crafty Connection Ojos de Dios were made by the Huichol, an indigenous group in Mexico, during the 15th century and have become a popular southwest holiday tradition. The Huichol considered them good luck and used them for protection. The Huichol people have strong connections to the land, and their spiritual beliefs are aligned with nature. The four ends of the Ojos de Dios represent water, fire, air and earth. Video directions using sticks and yarn

Week of November 14, 2022 | Fifth Grade | No Place for Hate Week
Feeling Thankful and Joining Together for a Stronger Community

Feeling Thankful, by Shelly Rotner and Sheila Kelly
Words and pictures help children reflect on what they feel thankful for.

The Hill We Climb, by Amanda Gorman and recorded for TIME
Amanda S. C. Gorman is an American poet and activist. Her work focuses on issues of oppression, feminism, race, and marginalization, as well as the African diaspora. Born in 1998, Gorman is the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history. The Hill We Climb calls for unity, collaboration, and togetherness.

This Story is not About a Kitten, by Randall de Seve
An ode to community and kindness.

Crafty Connection Thanksgiving coloring sheet

Read-Alouds and Presentations Week to Week by Grade Level

11/7/2022

Week of November 7, 2022 | TK and Kindergarten
Picture Book Month and Seasonal Veggie Silliness

I Yam a Donkey! by Cece Bell
Last week we met a bored potato. This week, a stern yam corrects a grammatically-challenged donkey.

Crafty Connection Draw a yam bookmark on orange construction paper.
Website Picture Book Month

Week of November 7, 2022 | First Grade
Picture Book Month | Introducing Int'l Food Showcase on 11/15

The Sandwich Swap, by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, with Kelly DiPucchio
Best friends Lily and Salma disagree over their preferred foods.

I Really Like Slop! by Mo Willems
Can Gerald find the courage to taste Piggie's slop?

Kitchen Connection Recipe for peanut butter hummus dip
Grand View's International Food Showcase After school event on 11/15
Website Picture Book Month

Week of November 7, 2022 | Second Grade
Picture Book Month and National Monuments

Video Washington, D.C., tour
One More Acorn, by Don Freeman
As winter nears, Earl the Squirrel searches for the acorns he stashed in the parks of Washington, D.C. Iconic author/illustrator Don Freeman began this story in 1963. His son completed it with help from an illustrator almost 50 years later.

Crafty Connection Make leaf rubbings on the reverse of the Find the Alligator coloring sheet.
Website Picture Book Month

Week of November 7, 2022 | Third Grade
Picture Books Teach Gratitude for Equine Veterans

Video Veteran's Day | PBS Kids
Background Video Sergeant Reckless, a Horse of a Different Breed | view minute 0:54-1:43

Sergeant Reckless, by Patricia McCormick
With every war comes stories of heroism. In this case, it's a little mare used to haul ammunition by U.S. soldiers during the Korean War. Though the marines had doubts about her ability to haul the heavy loads, they began her training. It quickly became apparent that not only did Reckless have a large heart, she'd also consume anything-including chocolate, Coca-Cola, and poker chips.

Training Activity Do you have a dog at home? See if you can train your dog to carry a basket, following the steps in this video. Note the similarities and differences in how the dog is taught and how Reckless was taught.

Kitchen Connection Reckless surely did love sweets! Use leftover Halloween candy to bake Candy Loaded Oatmeal Bars.
Website Picture Book Month

Week of November 7, 2022 | Fourth Grade
Picture Books Teach Gratitude for Canine Veterans

Video Veteran's Day | PBS Kids

Wag! by Patrick McDonnell
A little dog is eager to please.

Dogs on Duty, by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent
When the news broke of the raid on Osama Bin Laden's compound, the SEAL team member that stole the show was a highly trained canine companion.

Video A salute to military working dogs.
Website Picture Book Month

Week of November 7, 2022 | Fifth Grade
Picture Books Teach Gratitude for Caprine Veterans

Sergeant Billy returns

Video Veteran's Day | PBS Kids

Sergeant Billy, the True Story of the Goat Who Went to War, by Mireille Messier
In 1914, Canadian soldiers headed for battle in France borrowed a goat from a girl and promised to bring him back. He trained with his new buddies and, despite orders, they smuggled him aboard their ship. The goat did well in the trenches, comforted and amused the soldiers, and was even jailed as a spy.

Website Picture Book Month

Read-Alouds and Presentations Week to Week by Grade Level

10/24/2022

Week of October 24, 2022 | TK | Halloween Witches

Two Little Witches: a Halloween Counting Story, by Harriet Ziefert
Count ten trick-or-treaters on a Halloween night and watch them disappear at the spooky old house.

Where's the Halloween Treat? by Harriet Ziefert
A counting book in which the children receive Halloween goodies from costumed hosts.

Halloween Bugs, by David A. Carter
Behind each spooky door lurks a different Halloween pop-up surprise....Trick-or-treating becomes spine-tingling fun with the ghostly, ghoulie Bugs inside!

Crafty Connection Witch coloring sheet

Week of October 24, 2022 | Kindergarten | Halloween Witches

Excuse Me... Are You a Witch? by Emily Horn
Herbert doesn't have a home but he loves visiting the library where it's warm and there are lots of good books to read.

Taffy Finds a Halloween Witch, by Donna Lugg Pape
Taffy is a little orange cat who wishes to be a black cat in order to be good enough for a witch to take home and love.

Halloween Bugs, by David A. Carter
Behind each spooky door lurks a different Halloween pop-up surprise....Trick-or-treating becomes spine-tingling fun with the ghostly, ghoulie Bugs inside!

Crafty Connection Witch coloring sheet

Week of October 24, 2022 | First Grade | Halloween Costumes

The Best Halloween of All, by Susan Wojciechowski
A young boy recalls all the Halloween costume agonies he's been through, until, at last, he gets to do things his own way

Video Becoming Sven For the musical "Frozen," an actor transforms into a four-legged, hoofed and antlered scene-stealer named Sven, using a nearly 50-pound puppet so convincing that you might forget there's a person planking inside (Seattle Times)

Crafty Connection Witch coloring sheet

Week of October 24, 2022 | Second Grade | Halloween Monsters

One Hungry Monster, by Susan Heyboer O'Keefe
A small boy tries to control ten insatiable monsters demanding food and creating chaos throughout the house at bedtime.
Crafty Connection Applesauce Cinnamon Oat Muffin Recipe

My Teacher Is a Monster! by Peter Brown
Bobby has the worst teacher. She's loud, she yells, and if you throw paper airplanes, she won't allow you to enjoy recess. She is a monster! But over the course of one day, Bobby learns that monsters are not always what they seem.

Video The Paper Airplane Guy
Crafty Connection Folding paper airplanes at school... now that's scary!

Week of October 24, 2022 | Third Grade | Scary Fun for Halloween

A Spoonful of Frogs, by Casey Lyall
A witch is having a hard time wrangling a bunch of frogs into her frog soup until she comes up with a surprising solution.

At-Home Activity Fold an origami Jumping Frog

I Want to Be in a Scary Story, by Sean Taylor
Monster wants to be the star of a scary story, but scary stories can be very scary...especially for their characters!

Crafty Connection Haunted house coloring sheet
At-Home Activity Make a haunted house

Week of October 24, 2022 | Fourth Grade

Library closed Thursday for vision and hearing screenings; fourth grade visits canceled.

Week of October 24, 2022 | Fifth Grade | The Meals of Odd Eaters

Zombies Don't Eat Veggies, by Megan and Jorge Lacera
Although Mo's parents insist he eat zombie cuisine, Mo craves vegetables and strives to get them to taste recipes made from his hidden garden.

Kitchen Connection See the publisher's teaching guide for the gazpacho recipe from the book

TED-Ed Video The Wild World of Carnivorous Plants

Read-Alouds and Presentations Week to Week by Grade Level

10/3/2022

Week of October 3, 2022 | TK & K | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Head and Shoulders, Knees and Toes

Paletero Man, by Lucky Diaz
In a vibrant Los Angeles neighborhood, a little boy finally catches up to Paletero José, who has the perfect treats for a hot summer day. When he finds his pockets are empty, the entire community bands together to help with the dinero.

Crafty Connection Coloring sheet with paleta recipe

Week of October 3, 2022 | First Grade | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

YouTube Tortillas de Agua, San Pedro, Sonora, Mexico (view to 1 min. 35 sec.)

Tiny Tortilla, by Arlene Williams
Juan Carlos discovers that with patience and the right touch he can transform a tiny ball of special tortilla dough into unexpected shapes.

Crafty Connection Coloring sheet with tortilla elephant ears recipe

Week of October 3, 2022 | Second Grade | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Federico and the Wolf, by Rebecca J. Gomez
A modern retelling of Little Red Riding Hood in which Federico rides his bicycle to the market for Abuelo's groceries, then stands up to a hungry wolf.

Craft Connection Coloring sheet with pico de gallo recipe

Week of October 3, 2022 | Third Grade | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Video Oye Como Va, recorded by Carlos Santana
Oye como va mi ritmo (listen how my rhythm goes)
Bueno pa' gozar (it's good for enjoying) -- pa' is an informal way to say para (for)

Chato's Kitchen, by Gary Soto
Chato, the coolest, low-riding cat in East LA, is cooking up a feast to serve with his new neighbors, a family of five plump mice-- who have no idea they are to be the main course at their own housewarming party. Luckily, the mice are bringing a surprise guest!

Crafty Connection Mexican tile coloring sheet

Week of October 3, 2022 | Fourth Grade | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Frida Kahlo (1907-1954)

Video Frida Kahlo: a Brief History (school friendly)
Frida Kahlo (1907-1954) was a Mexican artist who is famous for her self-portraits. She used art to express her emotions in various moments of her life and to reflect the lifelong pain she felt after an accident. She was very proud of her Mexican heritage and this is also shown in her paintings which feature bright colors, dramatic symbols, and traditional Mexican clothing. Frida Kahlo remains an inspiration to those who use art to express strong emotions.

Frida Kahlo, by Mike Venezia
Discusses the life of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, including her childhood, her art, and her marriage to Diego Rivera.

Crafty Connection Mexican tile coloring sheet

Week of October 3, 2022 | Fifth Grade | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Cesar Chavez (1927-1993)

Video Oye Como Va, recorded by Carlos Santana

Video Cesar Chavez: American Civil Rights Activist - Fast Facts | History (play to min. 1:40)
In 1968, Cesar Chavez led a boycott that resulted in a collective bargaining agreement guaranteeing field workers the right to unionize.

Harvesting Hope, by Kathleen Krull
When Cesar Chavez was 10 years old, drought forced his family to leave its Arizona ranch and move to California. The family became migrant workers, poorly paid and badly treated. As an adult, Chavez organized a nonviolent revolt, culminating in a 300-mile protest march that produced the first farmworkers' contract. Cesar Chavez devoted his energies to other areas of social justice as well.

Crafty Connection Mexican tile coloring sheet

Read-Alouds and Presentations Week to Week by Grade Level

9/22/2022

Week of September 26, 2022 | TK | Apple Season

Little Mouse's Big Secret, by Eric Battut
Little Mouse has found a delicious-looking apple and doesn't want to share a bite. So he buries it, and no matter how many of his friends ask what he hid, Little Mouse won't tell. But when a tree sprouts from the seeds of the fruit, there are enough apples for everyone-and Little Mouse realizes some secrets are even better when they're shared.

Head and Shoulders Knees and Toes

One Red Apple, by Harriet Ziefert
Chronicles the life cycle of an apple: from fruit growing on the tree, to market, to picnic, to seed, to sapling and tree, and finally to a new apple. A joyful introduction to the amazing and delectable way the earth provides food.

If You're Happy and You Know It

Ten Apples Up On Top, by Dr. Seuss writing as Theo. LeSieg
Lion, Tiger, and Dog are balancing ten apples on their heads when two cranky bears chase them.

Crafty Connection Students craft an apple bracelet with a green pipe cleaner and red pony beads.

Week of September 26, 2022 | Kindergarten | Apple Season

Video Apple life cycle

Our Apple Tree, by Gorel Kristina Naslund
A whimsical look at the life cycle of the apple tree. Two sprites guide the tree from spring, when the apple tree blossoms, through summer, when the fruit grows, to fall and the harvest.

Crafty Connection Apple tree color by number

Week of September 26, 2022 | First Grade | Apple Season

The Apple Doll, by Elisa Kleven
Lizzy's best friend in all seasons is her apple tree. When school starts, Lizzy sees how her apple tree can help her overcome her shyness and make new friends.

Crafty Connection Apple doll instructions

A Friend for Dragon, by Dav Pilkey
When Dragon befriends an apple that is eaten by a walrus he is saddened by the loss, but the remaining core brings about wondrous happenings.

Crafty Connection Dragon coloring sheet

Week of September 26, 2022 | Second Grade | Apple Season

Applesauce Season, by Eden Ross Lipson
Describes a family's applesauce-making ritual: the buying, peeling, cooking and stirring; the wait for the sauce to cool and the first taste.

Crafty Connection Applesauce recipe and coloring sheet

Week of September 26, 2022 | Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade
Information Literacy Part 4 | Catalog Demo and Scavenger Hunt

Destiny classic catalog

Destiny Discover catalog

1: Website & Map -- 2: Dewey Decimal System -- 3: Video "The Lure of the Library" -- 4: Catalog Demonstration and Scavenger Hunt -- 5: Quiz Show What You Know Part 1 of 2 and Scavenger Hunt -- 6. Quiz Show What You Know Part 2 of 2 and Scavenger Hunt.
Students will earn the privilege of using the library computers by part 4 of the 6-part practicum designed to allow them to demonstrate their awareness of library procedures and their ability to execute simple catalog searches.

Video Dewey Rap A fun, silly way to learn about the Dewey Decimal System.

Demonstrate the Catalog Show the path to get to the search page from the Catalog tab at grandviewlibrary.info. Demonstrate an author search using Shel Silverstein as an example and show on the library map where to locate the various books in their various locations. Show the path to get to Destiny Discover from the icon at grandviewlibrary.info or from the menu at the left on the Catalog page.

Scavenger Hunt and Using the Computers Students search for pre-determined books in small groups and then take turns searching for books using the computers to look up call numbers.

Week of September 26, 2022 | Fourth Grade | Kindness
Water... Apples... and the Ripple Effect

Water Is Water, by Miranda Paul
Highlights the various forms water takes throughout the year including autumn fog and rain, frozen ponds and falling snow, steam from cups of cocoa, and snow melt turning dirt to mud.

One Green Apple, by Eve Bunting
It's hard to be the new kid in school, especially when you're from another country and don't know the language. But a field trip to an apple orchard helps Farah feel connected.

Each Kindness, by Jacqueline Woodson
What if you're cruel to someone and never get the chance to make it right? This deeply personal story takes us full circle back to water. As a lake is rippled when a stone is tossed, a cruelty has repercussions than can never be undone.

Week of September 26, 2022 | Fifth Grade
Sharing the Joy of Books and Reading

Video Getting to Know Little Free Library The non-profit organization was founded in 2012. Now there are over 150,000 little libraries worldwide.

Little Libraries, Big Heroes, by Miranda Paul
The story behind the founding of the Little Free Library non-profit by Todd Bol (1956-2018) which began in Wisconsin as a tribute to his late mother, a teacher, and spread around the world. Learn more at littlefreelibrary.org.

Little Free Libraries Flourish in Manhattan Beach The Beach Reporter tells about local Little Free Libraries and highlights one hosted by Chris Primm, the Library Resource Specialist at Meadows Elementary. The former Pennekamp Library Resource Specialist hosts a variation on the theme called a Puzzle Perch.

Crafty Connection Fold paper into a house shape and decorate as a Little Free Library

Week of May 22, 2023 | TK | Vacation Plans

Week of May 22, 2023 | Kindergarten | We Love to Help at Home

Week of May 22, 2023 | First Grade | Puppy Fun

Week of May 22, 2023 | Second Grade | Summer Reading

Week of May 22, 2023 | Third Grade | When Things Don't Go Right

Week of May 22, 2023 | Fourth Grade | Celebrating Memorial Day

Week of May 22, 2023 | Fifth Grade | Summer Reading Teaser

Week of May 8, 2023 | TKCelebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Week of May 8, 2023 | KindergartenCelebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Week of May 8, 2023 | First GradeCelebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Week of May 8, 2023 | Second GradeCelebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Week of May 8, 2023 | Third GradeCelebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Week of May 8, 2023 | Fourth GradeCelebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage MonthCurriculum Connection: California History

Week of May 8, 2023 | Fifth GradeCelebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Monthand Novel Study Continues

Week of January 30, 2023 | TK & KindergartenGetting Ready for the 100th Day of School

Week of January 30, 2023 | First Grade | Groundhog Day

Week of January 30, 2023 | Second Grade | Dinosaurs

Week of January 30, 2023 | Third Grade | Doing the Right Thing

Week of January 30, 2023 | Fourth GradeSEL New Perspectives | Curriculum Connection Geology

Week of January 30, 2023 | Fifth GradeSEL Kindness | Curriculum Connection Information Literacy

Week of December 19, 2022 | TK | Happy Hanukkah

Week of December 19, 2022 | Kindergarten | Happy Hanukkah

Week of December 19, 2022 | First Grade | Happy Hanukkah

Week of December 19, 2022 | Second Grade | Happy Hanukkah

Week of December 19, 2022 | Third Grade | Happy Hanukkah

Week of December 19, 2022 | Fourth Grade | Happy Hanukkah

​Week of December 19, 2022 | Fifth Grade | Happy Hanukkah

Week of November 14, 2022 | TK | Gratitude & Food Fun

Week of November 14, 2022 | Kindergarten | Manners & Dining Fun

Week of November 14, 2022 | First Grade | Step-by-Step Writing

Week of November 14, 2022 | Second Grade | Harvest Fun/Gratitude

Week of November 14, 2022 | Third Grade | Thanksgiving Traditions

Week of November 14, 2022 | Fourth GradeThanksgiving and Indigenous Traditions

Week of November 14, 2022 | Fifth Grade | No Place for Hate WeekFeeling Thankful and Joining Together for a Stronger Community

Week of November 7, 2022 | TK and KindergartenPicture Book Month and Seasonal Veggie Silliness

Week of November 7, 2022 | First GradePicture Book Month | Introducing Int'l Food Showcase on 11/15

Week of November 7, 2022 | Second GradePicture Book Month and National Monuments

Week of November 7, 2022 | Third GradePicture Books Teach Gratitude for Equine Veterans

Week of November 7, 2022 | Fourth GradePicture Books Teach Gratitude for Canine Veterans

Week of November 7, 2022 | Fifth GradePicture Books Teach Gratitude for Caprine Veterans

Week of October 24, 2022 | TK | Halloween Witches

Week of October 24, 2022 | Kindergarten | Halloween Witches

Week of October 24, 2022 | First Grade | Halloween Costumes

Week of October 24, 2022 | Second Grade | Halloween Monsters

Week of October 24, 2022 | Third Grade | Scary Fun for Halloween

​Week of October 24, 2022 | Fourth Grade

Week of October 24, 2022 | Fifth Grade | The Meals of Odd Eaters

Week of October 3, 2022 | TK & K | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Week of October 3, 2022 | First Grade | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Week of October 3, 2022 | Second Grade | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Week of October 3, 2022 | Third Grade | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Week of October 3, 2022 | Fourth Grade | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Week of October 3, 2022 | Fifth Grade | Hispanic/Latinx Heritage

Week of September 26, 2022 | TK | Apple Season

Week of September 26, 2022 | Kindergarten | Apple Season

Week of September 26, 2022 | First Grade | Apple Season

Week of September 26, 2022 | Second Grade | Apple Season

Week of September 26, 2022 | Third, Fourth, and Fifth GradeInformation Literacy Part 4 | Catalog Demo and Scavenger Hunt

Week of September 26, 2022 | Fourth Grade | KindnessWater... Apples... and the Ripple Effect

Week of September 26, 2022 | Fifth GradeSharing the Joy of Books and Reading

Library Program

Archives

Categories

Week of May 8, 2023 | TK
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Week of May 8, 2023 | Kindergarten
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Week of May 8, 2023 | First Grade
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Week of May 8, 2023 | Second Grade
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Week of May 8, 2023 | Third Grade
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Week of May 8, 2023 | Fourth Grade
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Curriculum Connection: California History

Week of May 8, 2023 | Fifth Grade
Celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
and Novel Study Continues

Week of January 30, 2023 | TK & Kindergarten
Getting Ready for the 100th Day of School

Week of January 30, 2023 | Fourth Grade
SEL New Perspectives | Curriculum Connection Geology

Week of January 30, 2023 | Fifth Grade
SEL Kindness | Curriculum Connection Information Literacy

Week of December 19, 2022 | Fifth Grade | Happy Hanukkah

Week of November 14, 2022 | Fourth Grade
Thanksgiving and Indigenous Traditions

Week of November 14, 2022 | Fifth Grade | No Place for Hate Week
Feeling Thankful and Joining Together for a Stronger Community

Week of November 7, 2022 | TK and Kindergarten
Picture Book Month and Seasonal Veggie Silliness

Week of November 7, 2022 | First Grade
Picture Book Month | Introducing Int'l Food Showcase on 11/15

Week of November 7, 2022 | Second Grade
Picture Book Month and National Monuments

Week of November 7, 2022 | Third Grade
Picture Books Teach Gratitude for Equine Veterans

Week of November 7, 2022 | Fourth Grade
Picture Books Teach Gratitude for Canine Veterans

Week of November 7, 2022 | Fifth Grade
Picture Books Teach Gratitude for Caprine Veterans

Week of October 24, 2022 | Fourth Grade

Week of September 26, 2022 | Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade
Information Literacy Part 4 | Catalog Demo and Scavenger Hunt

Week of September 26, 2022 | Fourth Grade | Kindness
Water... Apples... and the Ripple Effect

Week of September 26, 2022 | Fifth Grade
Sharing the Joy of Books and Reading