Nothing creates more memories or opportunities for meaningful conversations than picture books. Here is a list of Winter Read Alouds for Upper Elementary that you can share with your 4th and 5th grade students.
1. The Giving Snowman
The Giving Snowman reminds me of the The Giving Tree. The snowman sees different animals who are in need. He gives them what he needs but is left without anything. When the sun comes up the next day, the snowman begins to melt. The animals come back and rebuild him. It’s a great lesson about kindness and being there for others.
2. Brave Irene
Brave Irene tells the story of a little girl whose mom is a seamstress. She makes a dress for the duchess but becomes too sick to deliver it. Irene volunteers to deliver the dress. This book shares the lesson that everything comes easy but being willing to overcome obstacles can help you achieve your goals.
3. The Mitten
The Mitten is about a white mitten that is unknowingly dropped in the snow. Different animals come upon the mitten and interact with it. A funny and silly story that students are sure to smile about.
4. The Snowflake
The Snowflake tells two separate stories, one of a snowflake and one of a little girl, whose day intersect at the end. They both long to find a special place in the world. Its theme is that we all find a way to shine.
5. The Story of Snow
The Story of Snow is is a nonfiction book that explains how crystals and snowflakes are formed. It is a great educational read aloud that will have students enthralled at the uniqueness and different stages of snowflakes.
6. Snowflake Bentley
Snowflake Bentley is a biological tribute to Wilson Bentley who was always fascinated by snow. His enthusiasm for snow was misunderstood but with the determination, he was able to photograph hundreds of snowflakes.
If you are looking for extension activities to the fictional Winter Read Alouds for Upper Elementary Students here a couple of ideas:
- have students fill out a winter story map once you have finished reading a book. Want to expand their exposure to different books? Have them read books individually and complete a story map on the book they read.
- Have them complete different reading response activities focusing on different skills and strategies.
As you’re planning out your winter read alouds, make sure to also plan out what activities you will have your students complete as you all come back from winter. It is important to make sure to revisit rules and expectations before jumping into the curriculum.
I wish you a great second half of the school year, my co-teacher.
