Wood Stork Swamp Galapagos Giants Level 25-26

This paired text set includes Wood Stork Swamp, a reflective fictional memoir, and Galapagos Giants, a fact-filled non-fiction book. In Wood Stork Swamp, the narrator looks back on his childhood near a swamp and the ecological changes that caused the wood stork's habitat to disappear. This text weaves personal memory with environmental facts, offering a moving perspective on how human activity can shape natural ecosystems. The memoir format and descriptive language invite students to explore both emotional and factual elements of narrative. Paired with this is Galapagos Giants, a non-fiction title that introduces the reader to the unique species of the Galapagos Islands, such as the giant tortoise and marine iguana. It explains how these rare animals have become endangered and what efforts are underway to protect them. The inclusion of diagrams, maps, and fact boxes enhances comprehension and encourages curiosity about conservation. Together, these books highlight real-world issues in accessible, engaging ways that support cross-text connections and critical thinking.

Educational Benefits:

• Enhances understanding of how fiction can incorporate factual information.
• Supports sequencing and summarising skills across text types.
• Encourages discussion on environmental change and its long-term impact.
• Builds vocabulary related to habitats, conservation, and biodiversity.

Classroom Ideas:

• Have students write a reflective diary entry from the perspective of an endangered animal.
• Create a timeline showing the sequence of events in Wood Stork Swamp.
• Compare and contrast the text features in both books.
• Conduct a class research project on another endangered species.

Safety & Information:

• Suitable for ages 7+
• Book size: 200mm x 210mm
• Text type: Fiction and non-fiction pairing
• No small parts or physical hazards