As Earth Day approaches, I thought I’d focus my language arts mentor text post on A River Ran Wild by author, Lynn Cherry. The author’s descriptive language about the pollution caused by the industrial revolution makes it a great choice for a mentor text discussing environmental studies, Earth Day, and certainly, reading comprehension and writing.
Book Descriptions
Ways to Use the Book
This book works well for several skills as I mentioned, but I think it is best for author’s craft and author’s message. As I read through the book, I found the author’s words perfect for digging deep for meaning. Cherry poetically describes the changes to the Nashua River as the industrial revolution happened, and for the reader, it provides an opportunity to think about issues related to pollution, greed for bigger and better things, responsibility to take care of our planet, and respect for the beliefs and feelings of others. Having students select text information and record their interpretation of that information provides wonderful discussion. For this lesson, I selected the text to purposefully guide the talking points. This file could be projected on a Smartboard to compile student thoughts as part of a Pair/Share period.
Other Teaching Options

Other Books You May Like
Many of Lynne Cherry’s books focus on environmental studies. For other book options from her, you can give these a try. I’ve used The Great Kapok Tree, Armadillo from Amarillo, and The Shaman’s Apprentice.
I love Lynne Cherry's books! I don't thing I have this one though! I'll have to check it out! It sounds perfect for Earth Day! Thanks so much for linking up!
Amanda
It is perfect for Earth Day for sure, and I hope my freebie makes planning to use it easy for you. Thanks for hosting!
I love Jack Prelutsky books. My kids love his holiday poetry. 🙂
My district has adopted a program, so I pretty much follow what is there, which isn't much.
http://indysdesigns.blogspot.com/2014/03/lets-fly-away.html
So glad you dropped by Wendy and shared this great mentor text.
How sad that you are stuck following a program to fidelity and can not weave into your teaching routine great mentor texts. Perhaps through read alouds and writing mini lessons??
I haven't thought about this book in years! Thanks for reminding me what a great book it is to use in class. Love your ideas.
Caitlin
TheRoomMom
I'm glad you dropped by, Caitlin. It's a great one for several skills for sure. I like The Great Kapok Tree too.