Hands-On Activities

Top 5 Reasons to Love Geronimo Stilton And Geronimo Stilton Book List 1-20

July 15, 2023 | 2 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a Geronimo Stilton book list because we love the series. Be sure to grab more Geronimo Stilton Books ideas and crafts on my page.

First, the books originated in Italy and were written by Elisabetta Dami and use the name Geronimo Stilton as the author. Clever pen name, right?

Geronimo Stilton is written from the point of view of a young nervous mouse who keeps finding himself drawn into adventures (and sometimes in a pickle) in all sorts of different places around the world.

For example, he travels to the Outback, Egypt, New York, into the jungle, and sailing with pirates to name just a few of his adventures.

Top 5 Reasons to Love Geronimo Stilton And Geronimo Stilton Book List 1-20

They are great books for visual learners, young readers transitioning to chapter books, struggling readers, reluctant readers, and pretty much any other type of reader.

Additionally, they are recommended for ages 7-10 but depending on your child’s age I feel like that span can go a little wider in either direction.

Besides, you can see from the list below that Geronimo has quite a variety of adventures.

Geronimo Stilton Spin-Off Series

Too, we are just talking about the first 20 in the original series today but here is a quick overview of the different spin-off series and how many in each.

Geronimo Stilton-82
Geronimo Stilton Journey Through Time-8
Geronimo Stilton: Cavemice Series-15
Geronimo Stilton Reporter Series-11
Thea Stilton Series-35
Thea Stilton Graphic Novel Series-8
Geronimo Stilton Graphic Novel Series-19
Geronimo Stilton: The Graphic Novel Series-4 Books
Geronimo Stilton and the Kingdom of Fantasy Series-16
Geronimo Stilton: Special Edition Series-7
Geronimo Stilton Classic Tales Series-1
Geronimo Stilton: Spacemice Series-12
Geronimo Stilton: Creepella Von Cacklefur Series-9
Geronimo Stilton: Micekings Series-7
Thea Stilton: Mouseford Academy Series-8
Thea Stilton and the Treasure Seekers Series-3

Next, look at the top 5 reasons to love the Geronimo Stilton book list.

Top 5 Reasons to Love Geronimo Stilton

They are super fun to read. And they are written in a comic book or graphic novel style with bright and fun illustrations. This helps kids get a better picture of the locations and keeps their interest. The different sizes and styles of fonts help put emphasis on words, phrases, and themes throughout the book. Often these highlighted words make for a great introduction or review of spelling/vocabulary words.
Teaches great life lessons- Geronimo’s books tend to have some kind of lesson woven in like being open to adventure, recycling, being brave, friendship, family, and other character concepts that are laid out simply for kids.
Loaded with great facts and information- While telling the crazy stories they naturally weave in facts about people, places, and things so your child can’t help but learn while they enjoy the tale. Each of these elements is casually introduced in the story so your child is learning as they enjoy a story without it being a textbook at all. There is special emphasis on geography and history and make for a great history series for younger children.
Great for boys and girls- While they do have a spin-off series about his sister Thea Stilton, Geronimo is written to appeal to both boys and girls, no matter what theme the adventure. If you have multiple kids in the house you are going to get a lot of bang for your buck on these books.
They cover a variety of topics and locations- Whatever you are learning about or piques your child’s interest there is a great chance that there is a Geronimo Stilton out there for them. Looking for a book for them to read on the flight to a family vacation in Hawaii? Try book #72-The Hawaiian Heist, need something to supplement your Egypt study? Go with #2 The Curse of The Cheese Pyramid.

Moreover, I have many hands-on activities to go wiith many of the books.

Geronimo Stilton Book List Activities

Also, look at these other crafts to go with the books.

Finally, look at the list of Geronimo Stilton books.

Geronimo Stilton Books 1 - 20

It is not necessary to go in order, each book is its own stand-alone story, and the main characters are properly reintroduced each time. So, you can choose the books based on your child's current interest, the season, or a unit study topic.

Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye

Who Is Geronimo Stilton? That's me! I run a newspaper, but my true passion is writing tales of adventure. Here on Mouse Island, my books are all best-sellers! What's that? You've never read one? Well, my books are full of fun. They are whisker-licking good stories, and that's a promise!Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye. It all started when my sister, Thea, discovered a mysterious map. It showed a secret treasure on a faraway island. And before I could let out a squeak of protest, Thea dragged me into her treasure hunt! In no time at all, we'd set sail for the island. It was an adventure I'd never forget....

The Curse of the Cheese Pyramid (Geronimo Stilton #2)

I'm off to Egypt! I climbed onboard a crabby old camel that would take me across the desert to the Great Cheese Pyramid. There, among mummies and hieroglyphics, I would learn the secret of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient Mouse World....

Cat and Mouse in a Haunted House (Geronimo Stilton, No. 3)

I was lost in a dark, spooky forest! Until I stumbled upon Curlypaw Cannycat's Castle.

I'm Too Fond of My Fur! (Geronimo Stilton #4)

Well, my books are full of fun. They are whisker-licking good stories, and that's a promise! I'm Too Fond of My Fur! I was on my way 'round the world to Mouse Everest! The trip was long and dangerous. I almost froze my tail off on the way. And then I was kidnapped by the Abominable Snowman! Yes, it was truly an amazing adventure....

Four Mice Deep in the Jungle (Geronimo Stilton Funny Tales)

Enter the world of Geronimo Stilton, where another funny adventure is always right around the corner. Each book is a fast-paced adventure with lively art and a unique format kids 7-10 will love.I have never been a brave mouse... but lately, my fears were taking over my life! Soon I was too afraid even to leave my mousehole. That's when Thea and Trap decided to cure me. They dragged me away on an airplane (I'm afraid of flying!) all the way to the jungle. There I was forced to eat bug soup, climb trees as high as skyscrapers, swim in raging rivers, and even wrangle snakes! How would a 'fraidy mouse like me ever survive?

Paws Off, Cheddarface! (Geronimo Stilton, No. 6)

Who Is Geronimo Stilton? That's me! I run a newspaper, but my true passion is writing tales of adventure. Here on Mouse Island, my books are all best-sellers! They are whisker-licking good tales, and that's a promise!__PAWS OFF, CHEDDARFACE!It was the strangest thing... all across New Mouse City, rodents kept telling me I'd done things I had no memory of! I soon discovered why... there was a Geronimo look-alike out there, pretending to be me. He'd even fooled my sister Thea! And worst of all, he was trying to take over my newspaper. I had to find a way to strike back -- but how??

Red Pizzas for a Blue Count

They are whisker-licking-good tales, and that's a promise! Red Pizzas for a Blue Count My troublemaker cousin was trapped in Transratania! And before I could even squeak, my sister, Thea, dragged me along on her rescue mission. Little did we know that Transratania is the land of vampire bats! Holey cheese, bats give me mouse bumps! Why? Well, there's nothing a bat likes more than sinking its teeth into a nice, juicy mouse....

Attack of the Bandit Cats (Geronimo Stilton, No. 8)

Oh, what a day! I had just published New Mouse City's first phone book -- and almost every single number was wrong! My customers were out for my fur. So when Thea, Trap, and Benjamin asked me to join their quest for a legendary island covered in silver, I agreed. But no sooner had we set out than we were attacked by a ship of pirate cats! They mousenapped us and threatened to make us their dinner. Would we escape with our lives... or find ourselves in the soup?

A Fabumouse Vacation for Geronimo (Geronimo Stilton, No. 9)

Sometimes a busy businessmouse like me needs a nice, relaxing vacation. But of all the rotten rats' luck -- every time I tried to get away, disaster struck. My aunt Dizzy Fur's mouse hole caught on fire, my office was flooded, and our printing press broke down! When I was finally ready to depart, all the good trips were booked up. I was stuck in a flea-ridden old hotel, sharing a room with a bunch of Gerbil Scouts! I couldn't wait to get back to my comfy home in New Mouse City....

All Because of a Cup of Coffee (Geronimo Stilton, No. 10)

I, Geronimo Stilton, was in love! I went out for a cup of coffee one morning and laid eyes on the most beautiful rodent I'd ever seen. Unfortunately, I immediately tripped over my paws and ended up with my tail in a toaster! I was one mortified mouse. But I was determined to prove that I wasn't a complete stumblemouse. So I decided to join my family on their most daring adventure yet -- a journey to the eighth wonder of the world! There I made a discovery so truly amazing, I knew I could win the heart of my darling ratlette....

The Phantom of the Subway (Geronimo Stilton, No. 13)

When my sister Thea told me a ghost was haunting New Mouse City's subway tunnels, I knew I had to get the scoop for The Rodents Gazette! So I set off with Thea, Trap, and my assistant editor Pinky Pick. We soon discovered that Sally Ratmousen, the editor of The Daily Rat, was also on the trail of the mysterious ghost. But we were all in for the fright of our wee mouse lives... because the ghost turned out to be a CAT!

The Temple of the Ruby of Fire (Geronimo Stilton, No. 14)

It was my most thrilling adventure yet! My old friend Professor von Volt had discovered the location of the famous Ruby of Fire. And before I could let out a squeak of protest, my sister Thea had dragged me into race to be the first to find the legendary gem. The jewel was protected by thousands of ancient booby-traps -- a 'fraidy mouse's worst nightmare? Would I make it through with my fur?

The Mona Mousa Code (Geronimo Stilton, No. 15)

Do you like art? I do! So when Thea heard that there was a secret map hidden beneath Mouse Island's most famous painting, the Monamouse, I knew we had to get the scoop! Together we began to investigate, and soon we discovered secret clues that led us to the most fabumouse secret. And it all lay beneath the streets of New Mouse City!

A Cheese-Colored Camper[GERONIMO STILTON #16 CHEESE-CO][Paperback]

My grandfather William Shortpaws -- also known as Cheap Mouse Willy -- was back at The Rodent's Gazette, and he was determined to torture me. He wanted to publish a guide book to Ratzikistan, the Siberia of Mouse Island. And he ordered *me* to go there to write it! But as you know, dear reader,

Watch Your Whiskers, Stilton! (Geronimo Stilton, No. 17)

Cheesecake! A mysterious one-eyed rat was trying to steal The Rodent's Gazette from under my snout! I had to stop him -- but how? My business manager, Shif T. Paws, came up with a plan. He arranged for me to appear on a TV quiz show. If I won, the Gazette was safe. But if I lost -- SQUEAK! -- I had to give up my tail!

Shipwreck on the Pirate Islands (Geronimo Stilton, No. 18)

My sister had come up with a new way to torment me. She'd combined my two least favorite things - travel and ghosts! Thea had heard rumors of a haunted pirate treasure buried on a desert island. And before I could say "avast ye scurvy rats," she'd dragged me into her treasure hunt!

My Name Is Stilton, Geronimo Stilton (Geronimo Stilton, No. 19)

Have you met my very young assistant editor, Pinky Pick? She is only thirteen years old, but she is one of the cleverest mice I've ever known. If you've ever wondered how Pinky came to work for me at The Rodent's Gazette, this is the book for you! It's a looooong story... and one that's full of adventure, laughs, and of course, like all of my books, lots of embarrassing moments for yours truly!

Surf's Up, Geronimo! (Geronimo Stilton, No. 20)

Ah, there's nothing like a relaxing vacation on the beach! I would spread out by the crystal-clear water with a good book. What more could a mouse want? At least, that was the plan. But somehow, my vacations never seem to go according to plan. Instead of a beautiful seaside resort, I found myself in a fleabag hotel that was falling down around my ears! Oh, would I ever be able to relax and enjoy my vacation

8 Facts about African Elephants and a Cute Paper Plate Elephant

July 14, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I have 8 facts about African elephants and a cute paper plate elephant. Also, look at my pages Free Africa Unit Study for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning | Free Continent & Country Reports and 6 World Wildlife Day Activities to Learn About African Lions for more ideas.

Do you need a great activity to go along with a study of Africa and its animals?

This simple paper plate elephant can be used for display and learning.

8 Facts about African Elephants and a Cute Paper Plate Elephant

I enjoy a craft that is inexpensive and can be used as an effective learning tool.

With this one, we can learn about the different parts of the African elephant.

For example, you can learn about why their ears are so large, why they have tusks, and compare them to Asian elephants.

Comparing African To Asian Elephants

African elephants are giant creatures that roam the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa and the rainforests of Central and West Africa in herds.

Their hide is much more wrinkled than that of their Asian counterpart.

And they have two “fingers” on their trunk while Asians only have one.

Another distinction between the two is the length of the tusks.

While African elephants have long tusks on both males and females, Asian elephants have short tusks that are generally only visible on the males.

Next, look at these facts about African elephants.

8 Facts About African Elephants

The African Savanna elephant is the world’s largest land animal. The word “elephant” is actually Latin for “huge Arch”.
August 12th is World Elephant Day; a day created to educate and bring attention to the plight of African and Asian Elephants.
A baby elephant can stand within just 20 minutes of being born, a baby African Elephant weighs almost 200 pounds at birth.
Elephant tusks are enlarged incisor teeth and show when elephants are around 2 years old. These tusks will continue to grow throughout their lives.
90% of the African elephant populations have been wiped out in the last century.
African elephants live in sub-Saharan Africa, the rain forests of Central and West Africa, and the Sahel desert in Mali.
African elephants are made up of two living elephant species, the African bush elephant, and the smaller African forest elephant.
African elephants live in a sunnier, hotter climate than Asian elephants do which is why their larger ears are better suited to them. Take a closer look at them, they also resemble the shape of the continent of Africa.

Look at more paper plate elephant activities.

Resources to Go Along With the Paper Plate Elephant

Easy How to Draw an African Elephant for Kids Tutorial Video
This elephant word search is a great simple activity for kids.
Grab a map, atlas, or globe, and have your child find locations where African Elephants live. We used a small plastic elephant to mark them as we went along. You can find the largest groups in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Kenya, Namibia, Zambia, and South Africa.

Fold an origami elephant, glue on long paper tusks and you have an African Elephant.
Need a good read-aloud? The Magician’s Elephant is a great option for the whole family to keep with the elephant theme.

Watch African Elephants from Amazing Animals on YouTube to learn more about them.
Add this African elephant family to your collection. Use for dramatic small-world play, in dioramas, sensory bins, and as inspiration for drawings and paintings.
Elephants of Africa by Gail Gibbons, a shorter living science book, makes a great resource book as well.
Peek in on the live elephant cam at Tembe Elephant Park in South Africa.

African Elephant – Paper Plate Elephant

You will need:

2 paper plates
Grey craft paint
Black marker/pen
Scissors

Cut out 2 tusks and 2 ears from the smooth center of one plate and a trunk from the ridged edge.

When the body is done, trim to size.

Paint the other plate, the trunk, and the ears entirely gray and allow them to dry.

Flip and paint the other sides, as you will be able to see some of both sides in the final result.

Once your plate is dry, fold it in half, creasing it gently in the center.

Cut out the general shape of the legs, head (minus the trunk), and tail from both sides at the same time.

Add details to your elephant’s body, ears, and trunk like wrinkles and eyes with a fine-tipped black pen or marker.

Glue the tusk and trunk in between the fold of the paper plate.

Attach the ears to either side of the head.

You can now open your elephant and put it on display. It will stand nicely and look great as part of your collection.

What Plants And Animals Did Lewis And Clark Discover on their Famous Trek & Bitterroot Craft

July 13, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, we’re learning what plants and animals did Lewis And Clark discover on their long journey. Also, grab more ideas on my page Lewis and Clark Fun Homeschool Unit Study and Lapbook.

The Corps of Discovery was an expedition that was led by Captain Meriwether Lewis and Lieutenant William Clark.

This long journey was almost 8,000 miles.

What Plants And Animals Did Lewis And Clark Discover on their Famous Trek & Bitterroot Craft

It was taken over the span of May of 1804 to September of 1806 and was made on foot, on horseback, and by canoe.

It led the group down the Ohio River, up the Missouri River, across the Continental Divide, through the Great Plains, over the Rocky Mountains, and to the Pacific Ocean.

Facts About What Plants And Animals Did Lewis And Clark Discover

The group was made up of almost 50 including 27 young soldiers, a French Indian interpreter, and Clark’s Slave, York.

One of the most famous members of the party, Sacagawea, joined the Corps of Discovery at about 16 years old.

During this time, they found many yet unknown plants and animals.

They recorded 178 plants and 122 animals that were not previously known to science.

In his journal, Lewis recorded and pressed, and preserved 240 different plant species and brought them back with him.

The expedition also brought back skins, skeletons, horns, a live prairie dog, a magpie, and many more specimens.

They named many of the geographic locations after expedition members, peers, loved ones, and even their dog.

Additionally, they made maps of uncharted land, rivers, and mountains.

Too, they filled their journals overflowing with details about navigation, Native American tribes, and scientific notes about plants and animals.

The tales of their adventures sent many Americans westward in search of all the wonders that they found and more.

Lewis and Clark Exploration Hands-on Activities

Moreover, a Lewis and Clark unit study and lapbook lends well to tons of fun hands-on activities.

Activities are numerous and I a few here to get your creative juices flowing.

Books About Lewis and Clark

Also, look at some of these books to add your study of Lewis and Clark’s trek.

14 Lewis and Clark | Sacagawea Exploration Unit Study Resources

Lewis and Clark is one of the most significant periods in American history and you can spend weeks exploring the lands and people west of the Mississippi with these fun books and resources.

How We Crossed The West: The Adventures Of Lewis And Clark

Appealing art and descriptive text bring Lewis and Clark alive for young adventurers. Carefully chosen text from Lewis and Clark's actual journals opens a fascinating window into this country's exciting history.

National Geographic Readers: Sacagawea

Explore one of the most recognized figures in American history with this biography of Sacagawea. Kids will learn about her crucial role in the Lewis and Clark expedition and her influential legacy. The level 3 text provides accessible, yet wide-ranging, information for independent readers.

Of Courage Undaunted: Across the Continent with Lewis & Clark

Commissioned in 1803 by President Thomas Jefferson to explore and open up this vast territory, Lewis and Clark felt it was the realization of a lifelong dream. Against the hardships of the wilderness, possible attack by hostile Indians, sudden blizzards and terrifying natural obstacles, these two men led the Corps of Discovery ably and nobly to complete their mission. Their Corps included American Indians from the Sioux, Mandan, Shoshone, Clatsop and Chopunnish tribes. Sacajawea, the only woman on the trip, was a Shoshone woman who contributed invaluable service as interpreter and guide. Daugherty's evocative sepia and black ink illustrations depict individuals of humor, vitality, passion, and strength.

Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West

From the New York Times bestselling author the definitive book on Lewis and Clark’s exploration of the Louisiana Purchase, the most momentous expedition in American history and one of the great adventure stories of all time.

The Truth About Sacajawea (Lewis & Clark Expedition)

The only book ever written that tells the eyewitness truth about this famous teenage Indian mother who was indispensable to the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

The Journals of Lewis and Clark: 1805: Volume II

On May 14, 1804, the Corps of Discovery set out from Camp Dubois, Illinois, heading westward under the command of Captain Meriwether Lewis and his Second Lieutenant, William Clark. While Lewis led the group in terms of rank, the two men became de facto equals, giving their names jointly to a journey that would shape the future of the fledgling United States — the Lewis and Clark Expedition. This book presents journal entries taken directly from the expedition.

Sacagawea: American Pathfinder

Describes how Sacagawea found adventure guiding Lewis and Clark to the Oregon coast.

Along the Trail with Lewis and Clark (Third Edition): A Guide to the Trail Today

Take Your Own Journey through History on the Lewis & Clark Trail! Follow the journey of the Corps of Discovery from Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello through the Midwest and the Rockies, to the Pacific Ocean and back with this detailed chronicle of the Lewis & Clark Expedition. This third edition of the classic guidebook features accessible text that combines the historical sites and color maps that merge the past and present in a user-friendly and entertaining way.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition (Graphic History)

In this epic graphic novel, follow the dramatic story of the Lewis and Clark expedition. In 1804, these two explorers, along with their "Corps of Discovery," traversed the unmapped American West, leading to scientific discoveries, interactions with Native nations, and route to the Pacific Ocean. Dramatic illustrations and fast-paced text provide a "you-are-there" experience. With extensive back matter, including a bibliography, extended reading list, glossary, and further Internet sources, young readers will gobble up this action-packed comic book about one of history's most compelling moments.

The Oregon Trail: The Journey Across the Country From Lewis and Clark to the Transcontinental Railroad With 25 Projects

In The Oregon Trail: The Journey Across the Country from Lewis and Clark to the Transcontinental Railroad, readers ages 9 to 12 can delve into the explorations of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and other explorers. They can learn about the more than half a million people who followed during the nineteenth century. What challenges did these pioneers face on the 2,170-mile journey? How were Native American tribes and nations affected by this mass migration? Primary sources allow readers to feel like a part of the Oregon Trail experience while biographical sidebars will introduce the compelling people who were part of this time in U.S. history. Investigative, hands-on projects and critical thinking activities such as writing a treaty and researching artistic impressions of the Oregon Trail invite readers to further their understanding of life on the trail, early towns and forts, and the Transcontinental Railroad that followed the wagons into new lands and territories that would eventually become states.

Seaman's Journal

A trade paperback edition of the award-winning tale of the journey of Lewis and Clark. When Seaman, a Newfoundland dog, met his new master in August of 1803, he didn't know that he would spend the next three years on an adventure of more than 8,000 miles to the Pacific Ocean and back. Seaman's Journal is based on actual entries in Meriwether Lewis s journal describing Seaman, and it presents an account of the Lewis and Clark expedition as seen from the viewpoint of Lewis s dog. Join Seaman before the trip as preparations take place. Meet the Native American guides and friends they encountered along the way. And read of Seaman s love for Sacajawea, the Shoshone woman whose husband acted as interpreter and guide. Ages 5-8.

The Lewis & Clark Expedition: Join the Corps of Discovery to Explore Uncharted Territory

Describes the expedition led by Lewis and Clark to explore the unknown western regions of America at the beginning of the nineteenth century.

Lewis and Clark for Kids: Their Journey of Discovery with 21 Activities

Following Meriwether Lewis and William Clark’s Corps of Discovery as they navigate the muddy Missouri River and begin a great adventure, this activity book is set against the background of the vast North American continent. It takes children from President Jefferson’s vision of an exploratory mission across a continent full of unique plants and animals through their dangerous and challenging journey into the unknown to the expedition’s triumphant return to the frontier town of St. Louis. Twenty-one activities bring to life the Native American tribes they encountered, the plants and animals they discovered, and the camping and navigating techniques they used. A glossary of terms and listings of Lewis and Clark sites, museums, and related websites round out this comprehensive activity book.

It's Her Story Sacajawea A Graphic Novel

Sacajawea was a brilliant, multilingual Shoshone girl who was torn from her home at a young age. In 1804, she set out with the Lewis and Clark Expedition, acting as an interpreter and guide across hundreds of miles of unmapped land to reach the Pacific Ocean. Almost 200 years later, she became the first Indigenous woman to appear on a US coin. This is her story.

List of What Plants And Animals Did Lewis And Clark Discover

Next, here is a short and longer list of what plants and animals did Lewis and Clark discover.

Have your child choose an animal and a plant from each list below and draw, paint, create a diorama, make a Minecraft scene, or write a report to create a wonderful science and history lesson all rolled into one little project.

The expedition was successful in discovering 178 plants and 122 animals, but I am giving you a quick list of 10 of the most common in each category.

If you want a full list you can find them linked below.

● Animals

● Plants

Then look below for a quick list of 10 in each category.

Animals

Grizzly Bear
Buffalo
Black-Tailed Prairie Dog
Mountain Goat
Western Rattlesnake
Red Fox
Plains Gray Wolf
White-Tailed Deer
Striped Skunk
Harbor Seal

Plants- They found plants that were edible, medicinal, and good wood for building just to name a few uses.

Bitterroot
Blue Elderberry
Cottonwood Tree
Wormwood
Purple Coneflower
Orange Honeysuckle
Tansy
Prickly-Pear Cactus
Tarragon
Cluster Rose

Next, we chose the Bitterroot flower. We chose this one because it has many uses and fascinating facts.

5 Facts About The Bitterroot Flower

Lewis collected a blossoming Bitterroot specimen near Missoula, Montana, and it was named in honor of Lewis (genus name- Lewisia).
It later became Montana’s State Flower in 1893.
Native Americans used the flower and roots as medicine for sore throats and toothaches.
The Bitterroot is also known as “the resurrection flower” for its ability to survive a year without water.
Three different geographic features are named after the Bitterroot- Bitterroot Mountains, Bitterroot Valley, and Bitterroot River.

Finally, look how to make an egg carton Bitterroot flower.

How to Make An Egg Carton Bitterroot Flower

You will need:

Cardboard egg carton
Watercolor paint
Scissors
School glue

Usually, when creating something from an egg carton we use the “cup” portion.

This time we are going to cut out the taller piece that separates each cup.

First, cut out as much of their height as you can.

Make long skinny cuts, creating point tips all the way around, almost to the solid end but not quite.

Repeat with a second one, you can make this one slightly shorter.

Set your cut pieces upside down and gently press to spread out the petals.

Glue one inside the other.

Watercolor the “petals” a bright pink, leaving a bit of the center unwashed.

To create the stamen, you will need to trim off another piece of the egg carton and cut long skinny strips not quite all the way through.

Bend the tips down to make.

Paint the tips orange and leave the rest.

Glue inside the flower.

Allow the glue and paint time to dry.

Free Homeschool Geology Unit Study And Easy DIY Eggshell Geode

July 10, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a free homeschool geology unit study. Also, grab more ideas on my best homeschool unit studies page.

Find out how to create your own diy eggshell geode, gather a list of fabulous books, and learn some interesting facts alongside your child.

Geology is the study of the Earth, on and under its surface, and the processes that shape it.

This applies to tectonic plates, the layers of the earth, volcanoes, rocks, and minerals to name a few common studies.

For this homeschool geology unit study, we are going to focus a bit more on the rocks and minerals aspect of geology.

Free Homeschool Geology Unit Study And Easy DIY Eggshell Geode

Petrology is the study of the 3 types of rocks – igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary and the processes that form and transform them.

Mineralogy is the study of the chemistry, crystal structure, and physical properties of the mineral makeup of rocks.

5 Fascinating Facts For Your Homeschool Geology Unit Study

A mineral is a solid, naturally occurring substance made up of one or more elements and a gem is a precious or semi-precious mineral that has been cut and polished.
People who explore caves to enjoy and examine stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock and mineral formations found there are known as spelunkers.
A rock can begin as one type and can change many times. Rocks are always changing; it just takes a very long time for these changes to occur.
Diamonds are the hardest mineral.
Meteorites are rocks from space, and they help scientists learn more about the solar system.

Also, look at more geology activities.

MORE GEOLOGY UNIT STUDY ACTIVITIES

How To Make Crystals | Facts About Crystals For Kids

Too, add some more geology unit study ideas.

Homeschool Geology Unit Study Activity Ideas

This Geology Gem Stone Slime is a fun sensory idea for examining and extracting stones.
Watch Introduction to Geology on YouTube to find out more about what it includes.
Rock Activities For Kindergarten And Fun Edible Rock Cycle
To find out more about rocks and minerals specifically, you might enjoy Rocks for Kids.
Grab this free earth science book.
Edible Rock Cycle Fudge and Hands-on Rock Activities
Watercolor the beautiful layers of an Agate.

This is a great simple experiment to demonstrate stalactites and stalagmites formation.
Learning can also be delicious like this activity that includes making Rock Candy Geodes.

More Best Homeschool Unit Studies

Then, look at this fun list of books to add to your homeschool geology unit study.

5 Geology Unit Study Resources

Add these books and resources for a fun homeschool geology unit study for children of multiple ages.

Great STEM Science Kit - Geology

DISCOVER CRYSTAL TREASURE - Break open these rocks to reveal amazing crystals inside! Geology doesn’t get more exciting than breaking open rocks and finding crystal treasures. Ag great STEM activity that also makes an excellent gift for girls and boys!

Nature Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of the Natural World

See the world in a whole new way! Acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman combines art and science in this exciting and educational guide to the structure, function, and personality of the natural world. Explore the anatomy of a jellyfish, the inside of a volcano, monarch butterfly migration, how sunsets work, and much more. Rothman’s whimsical illustrations are paired with interactive activities that encourage curiosity and inspire you to look more closely at the world all around you.

Basher: Rocks & Minerals: A Gem of a Book

Simon Basher is back with another zany primer to science! Following his 3 successful titles on the basics of chemistry, physics, and biology, BASHER SCIENCE: ROCKS AND MINERALS is an in-depth look at the ground beneath our feet. Like his other titles, Basher presents these topics through charming and adorable illustrations and pairs them with basic information told from a first person perspective. He develops a community of characters based on the things that form the foundations of our planet: rocks, gems, crystals, fossils and more. And what's more, he makes it understandable, interesting, and cute. It's not what you expect out of a science primer.

Advanced Professional Rock Tumbler Kit - Turn Rough Rocks into Beautiful Gems

Turn rough rocks into polished gems: Discover and learn the fun process of rock tumbling with the Advanced Rock Tumbler. Pour in the rough stones and grit and let the machine do its job!

Everybody Needs a Rock (An Aladdin Book)

Everybody needs a rock -- at least that's the way this particular rock hound feels about it in presenting her own highly individualistic rules for finding just the right rock for you.

As you can see, studying geology covers a lot of other science topics. For example, there are volcanoes to tectonic plates to learn about.

So, I’m adding some vocabulary words which will help you to round your study.

Geology Vocabulary Words

fossil – the preserved remains of things that lived long ago
ocean trench – a narrow, extremely deep valley formed when the seafloor dips down as one tectonic plate slides under another
continental drift – a process in which continents slowly move over time on the surface of the earth
geologist – a scientist who studies the makeup of the earth and the forces and processes that shape and change it
basalt – heavy, dense rock formed from cooled, hardened lava
magnitude – an earthquake’s strength
plate tectonics – a theory that Earth’s crust and the solid top part of the mantle are broken up into sections that fit together but move against each other
tsunami – a gigantic wave of seawater caused by an earthquake in oceanic crust
fault – a crack in Earth’s crust
crater – a bowl-shaped opening at the top of a volcano or geyser
mineral – a solid, nonliving substance found in the earth that makes up rocks
hot spring – a naturally flowing source of hot water
obsidian – a dark rock or natural glass formed from lava that cooled very quickly
granite – a common igneous rock that forms from magma that cooled within Earth’s crust

Finally, look how to make this fun diy eggshell geode.

Homeschool Geology Unit Study- DIY Eggshell Geode

You will need:

Eggshells
Egg carton
Borax
Epsom salt
School glue
Food coloring

Gather some eggshells from breakfast.

Plan ahead and try to crack them in unique ways rather than just in half.

Wash thoroughly and carefully peel away the thin membrane inside the eggshell.

Turn upside and allow it to dry.

Once dry, pour a generous amount of school glue into your eggshell and roll it around to coat well to the edges.

Pour all the excess glue into the next shell until you need more or are finished coating all the shells you are using.

Fill each shell with Epsom salts, rolling around to get it all in the glue, this serves a few purposes.

DIY Eggshell Geode

First, it gives the borax crystals something to grab onto and helps encourage their growth all over the inside of the shell.

Secondly, it gives a little more “bulk” to your geode, letting your child have the satisfaction of a little bit quicker experience.

Shake out the excess Epsom salts.

Let the Epsom salt and glue dry and harden together.

Heat water to almost boiling on the stove or in the microwave.

I find it easiest to do it in a large heat-safe measuring cup with a pour spout for pouring later.

Stir in a few tablespoons of Borax, mix well, and continue adding until the water no longer absorb any of the powder when thoroughly stirred in.

There should be a bit of powder sitting in the bottom, this is how you know it is supersaturated.

Place the eggshells with the opening at the top wherever it is on the shell, the carton comes in very handy for this step.

It holds it well and safely catches the overflow. Place it where it will be for the next 24 hours, undisturbed because you don’t want to move it around until it’s ready.

Place a drop or two of food coloring inside each egg.

Carefully pour your saturated water into the eggshells right up to the very edge.

Allow to sit undisturbed for 12-24 hours, flip the eggs to drain and dry. The longer you let them sit the larger the crystals.

You can paint the outside of the shells if you like or leave them as they are.

Voila, you have beautiful handmade geodes that open the door for wonderful discussions on how geodes are formed.

Galapagos Islands Animals Fun and Simple Watercolor Flamingo Tutorial

July 9, 2023 | Leave a Comment
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Today I have a fun watercolor flamingo tutorial if you’re learning about the Galapagos Islands animals in South America. Also, you’ll love ideas on my South America Printable Lapbook and Fun Hands-on Unit Study Ideas post.

There are many unique and fascinating animals of the Galapagos Islands.

Some are native or endemic, and others that are plentiful there but might also be found in other exotic spots.

The Galapagos is an archipelago which is a sea or stretch of water containing many islands.

Galapagos Islands Animals Fun and Simple Watercolor Flamingo Tutorial

They are made up of 127 islands to be exact, of which only 4 are inhabited.

Many of which are endemic (native) to the Galapagos Islands from the well-known Galapagos tortoise to the small temperate weather Galapagos penguin.

About Flamingos of the Galapagos Islands

Flamingos are beautiful and graceful creatures that are easily identified.

And while flamingos are not endemic to the Galapagos, the ones that are found there are among the most brilliantly colored.

They are certainly eye-catching and that is why I chose to make them the focus of today’s activity.

The pink coloring of Galapagos flamingos comes from their diet.

These flamingos’ primary food source is crustaceans, which contain carotenoids, a pigment that helps the flamingos to maintain a bright pink color.

Galapagos flamingos live in large colonies, wading in the brackish, shallow waters of the Galapagos off the coast of Ecuador.

I found a beautiful two-page spread on flamingos in the Wildlife Anatomy from Julia Rothman.

This beautiful book not only served as inspiration for our watercolor painting but also covers the anatomy of a flamingo and a few fun facts.

Fantastic Facts About 8 Endemic Animals of The Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Penguin- The only one of its kind that makes its home north of the equator, they are the second smallest penguins and are the rarest penguin species in the world.
Galapagos Land Iguanas have a symbiotic relationship with the islands’ birds, who find a food source in the parasites that live on the iguanas’ skin.
Blue-Footed Booby, The name “booby” actually comes from a mispronunciation of the Spanish bobo, which means “clown” or “fool.”
Galapagos Tortoises inhabit most of the islands in the Galápagos.
Marine Iguana can live on both lands and in the water, diving to depths of up to 30 feet.
Flightless Cormorant is endemic to the Galápagos, yet flightless. They inhabit 2 different islands that are miles from any other shore.
Frigatebird birds have tiny bodies with enormous wingspans, and because they cannot take off from water, they will simply soar around for days, weeks, and sometimes even as long as two months without touching down.
Darwin’s Finches were discovered by Charles Darwin and belong to the Tanager family. Thirteen of the fourteen types are endemic to the Galapagos.

Also, look at these books and resources about the Galapagos Islands.

11 Books & Resources About the Animals of the Galapagos

Add one or two of these fun resources about the animals of the Galapagos Islands in South America.

Where Are the Galapagos Islands? (Where Is?)

The Galapagos Islands are a chain of volcanic islands located on either side of the equator in the Pacific Ocean. The isolated location of the islands has allowed a vast number of species to develop that are original to each island, such as the marine iguana, the blue-footed booby, the magnificent frigatebird and of course the giant Galapagos tortoise, which may live to be over one hundred years old.

Galapagos Wildlife TOOB

This Galapagos Island Toob is a must have item for sensory bins and dioramas, but they really give your child a better understanding of what creatures they may never get to see in person. They make great models for art projects as well from sketching to painting.

Galapagos (Earth's Extraordinary Places)

This is the ultimate book about the Galápagos for kids, covering the formation of the islands, the fascinating animals that live there, the evolutionary traits of the flora, the diverse climates, the brilliant conservation efforts and much more!This beautifully illustrated and photographic book provides a fascinating tour of the flora, fauna, and geology of the Galapágos islands. Children can learn about the unique and incredible wildlife, volcanoes, climate and Darwin’s theory of evolution from his visit to the Galápagos.

Karl, Get Out of the Garden!: Carolus Linnaeus and the Naming of Everything

Carolus (Karl) Linnaeus started off as a curious child who loved exploring the garden. Despite his intelligence—and his mother's scoldings—he was a poor student, preferring to be outdoors with his beloved plants and bugs. As he grew up, Karl's love of nature led him to take on a seemingly impossible task: to give a scientific name to every living thing on earth.

Exotic Birds TOOB

11 EXOTIC BIRDS: This Toob brings you some of the most amazing exotic winged friends from around the world. It includes a Parakeet, Quetzal, Yellow Macaw, Humming Bird, Hibiscus Flower, Keel-Billed Toucan, Cockatoo, Flamingo, White Ibis, Snowy Owl, and a Greet Parrot.

My Father's Island (Guinness World Records Little Books)

A true story that incorporates biography, adventure and the elements of armchair travel. Angermeyer, who grew up in Nebraska, embarks on a search to discover what happened to her father, a refugee from Hitler, on the Galapagos Islands where he and her mother had lived before his death.

Marcel McDuby the Blue-Footed Booby

For ages 3-9... The strange little bird with turquoise blue feet spent all his time imagining being someone else. Follow him on a journey that leads to self-acceptance and a life-changing discovery: It's our differences that make us special and set us apart. What's really important comes from our heart.

Galapagos Wildlife (Bradt Wildlife Guides)

This new, thoroughly updated and lavishly illustrated fourth edition of Bradt's Galápagos Wildlife is packed with information and magnificent pictures to aid in identifying key species, all in an easy-to-carry format that covers everything from the wildlife that you're likely to encounter, whether flying in the air, running along the ground or swimming underwater, to a succinct history of the islands, their habitats and volcanic origins.

Galapagos animal adventure with 26 coloring pages for all ages

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands with this endemic animal coloring book. With 26 pages filled with detailed and realistic drawings, this coloring book will take you on a journey through the unique landscapes of the islands as you immerse yourself in the wild nature of the región.

Take Your Time: A Tale of Harriet, the Galapagos Tortoise

Harriet the tortoise likes to do things slowly. She explores her home on the Galápagos Islands―slowly. She eats―slowly. And when the sun goes down, she slumbers deeply all night long.

When Harriet’s friends tell her to pick up the pace, Harriet decides to journey to a neighboring island to see what there is to see. She parades with penguins and rides with dolphins, encountering adventure at every turn. But is life in the fast lane right for a tortoise who loves to take her time?

Marine Iguanas - Tails of the Galapagos Islands Series

Marine Iguanas. Discover the unique Galapagos Island critter called the Marine Iguana. Designed for Young Readers (Ages 5-7) in mind, your little adventurist can immerse themselves within the colorful pages that take them on a journey to better understand the Life of the Marine Iguana. Fun facts and vibrant photos make this book an enjoyable read now and for years to come.

Before you begin, have your child identify the Galapagos Islands on a map, globe, or atlas.

Also, have them locate Ecuador and the equator as well.

More South America Activities

Finally, look how to make this diy watercolor flamingo tutorial.

I do not claim to be an artist or an art teacher.

Also, I have a fun printable flamingo unit study that you can read about here.

Dynamic and Beautiful Flamingo Printable Themed Informational Packet Study for Young Learners
$4.00 Add to cart

Galapagos Islands Animals – Watercolor Flamingo Tutorial

But as long as I have been homeschooling, I’ve picked up some tips and tricks that helped me teach things like watercolor in a simple way that helps kids “get it”

If you feel confident, freehand your flamingo with watercolor.

But this simple tutorial is meant for kids (or adults) who like art but aren’t yet confident to jump in fully,

Supplies:

Watercolor paper
Flamingo picture
2-3 small watercolor paintbrushes
Pencil with eraser
Cup of water

Start by lightly tracing the curving neck and body of a flamingo.

It’s okay if it’s not perfect. You can erase and re-sketch as many times as you need to.

Now add some jointed legs, you can draw feet or let them disappear into the water line.

Next, erase your drawing leaving just the lightest pencil marks to give a basic guide.

Use a clean brush and “paint” the neck and body using only water, get it nice and wet.

Now, pick up a light shade of pink watercolor and begin to fill in the flamingo.

Do some wet-on-wet watercolor by adding a little bit of detail and shading with a darker pink while it is still wet.

You will be able to see how nicely it moves when you add wet paint to wet paint. This is a great time to start shaping the tale a bit.

Allow the watercolor to dry, it shouldn’t take long.

Once dry or most of the way dry add details like the leg color, as well as adding more details to the wing and tail.

Let the final layer of watercolor dry and add a black eye and a large, curved beak.

Hands-On Activities

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8 Facts About African Elephants

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African Elephant – Paper Plate Elephant

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Books About Lewis and Clark

List of What Plants And Animals Did Lewis And Clark Discover

5 Facts About The Bitterroot Flower

How to Make An Egg Carton Bitterroot Flower

5 Fascinating Facts For Your Homeschool Geology Unit Study

MORE GEOLOGY UNIT STUDY ACTIVITIES

Homeschool Geology Unit Study Activity Ideas

More Best Homeschool Unit Studies

Geology Vocabulary Words

Homeschool Geology Unit Study- DIY Eggshell Geode

DIY Eggshell Geode

About Flamingos of the Galapagos Islands

Fantastic Facts About 8 Endemic Animals of The Galapagos Islands

More South America Activities

Dynamic and Beautiful Flamingo Printable Themed Informational Packet Study for Young Learners

Galapagos Islands Animals – Watercolor Flamingo Tutorial

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