Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the connection between dragons, marshmallows, and the environment.

Materials and Prep

• A copy of the book "Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows" by Asia Citro
• Paper and pencils

Activities

1. Read the book "Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows" together. Pay attention to how the characters interact with their environment and the importance of protecting it.
2. Discuss the different habitats mentioned in the book and what animals might live in those habitats. Encourage the student to draw and label their favorite habitat.
3. Brainstorm ways we can help protect the environment. Write down the ideas on a piece of paper and discuss why each action is important.
4. Play a sorting game where the student has to categorize different objects as either harmful or helpful to the environment. For example, a plastic bottle would be harmful, while a reusable water bottle would be helpful.

First Grade Talking Points

• "Dragons and Marshmallows is a story about a girl named Zoey who helps magical creatures and learns about science. We will learn about the environment, which means everything around us, like trees, animals, and water."
• "In the story, Zoey and Sassafras explore different habitats, which are the places where animals live. Can you name some habitats you know? For example, forests, oceans, or deserts."
• "We need to take care of the environment and protect it. One way we can do that is by picking up trash and putting it in the proper place. This helps keep our surroundings clean and safe for animals."
• "Another way to help the environment is by saving water. When we turn off the faucet while brushing our teeth, we use less water and help conserve it."
• "Let's play a game! I will show you some objects, and you have to tell me if they are harmful or helpful to the environment. Remember, harmful things can pollute or hurt nature, while helpful things can protect or preserve it."