Thanksgiving Levels 1-2

Thanksgiving features a playful storyline where animals contribute different items to a communal dinner, except for Turkey, who decides to stay in bed! This delightful twist makes for engaging reading and invites discussion around traditions, sharing, and participation. The story incorporates a repeated sentence structure, œwill take the¦, allowing students to anticipate text and build fluency. It introduces a range of animal characters and food items, expanding children's vocabulary in a meaningful context. The narrative supports decoding strategies through initial consonant sounds and offers an opportunity to explore the concept of giving and gratitude. Teachers can use the book as a springboard for discussing cultural traditions, especially when background knowledge about Thanksgiving is introduced in a global classroom context.

Educational Benefits:

• Strengthens understanding of sentence structure with predictable language.
• Enhances vocabulary related to food and animals.
• Builds decoding skills using phonics and visual cues.
• Encourages discussion of cultural practices and inclusivity.

Classroom Ideas:

• Host a classroom œThankful Feast and draw what students would bring.
• Use animal cut-outs for a sequencing activity based on the story.
• Practise writing lists using the phrase œI will take the¦
• Create thank-you cards to promote gratitude and empathy.

Safety & Information:

• Ages: 4-6 years
• Measurements: 14.5 cm x 16.5 cm; 16 pages
• Safety: Ensure adult supervision during activities involving scissors and glue.