Swirl by Swirl
Spirals in Nature

Swirl by Swirl - Spirals in Nature

Hey there, fabulous educators and super-parents, don't forget to tie in some storytelling to your teaching. Read the delightful picture book "Swirl by Swirl: Spirals in Nature" by Joyce Sidman. Its poetic text and stunning illustrations are sure to captivate your students and spark their curiosity. You can even have them write their own spiral-inspired poems or stories.

Are you ready to dive into the mesmerizing world of spirals? Let’s swirl our way through nature’s most captivating patterns and discover how you can bring this enchanting concept to your little learners.

First things first, spirals are everywhere! From the tiny whorls in a sunflower's seeds to the grand twist of a galaxy, these patterns are nature’s way of showing off. When you take your students on a nature walk, challenge them to become Spiral Detectives. Have them look for spirals in snail shells, the unfurling fronds of ferns, or even in the way water swirls down the drain. This is a fantastic way to get them observing and thinking about the natural world in a new, exciting way.

Back in the classroom or at your kitchen table, you can extend the spiral fun with some hands-on activities. How about a bit of art and math magic? Grab some paper and markers and show the kids how to draw different types of spirals – logarithmic, Archimedean, you name it! Then, for a bit of a twist (pun intended), create spiral mobiles. Cut out spirals from coloured paper and hang them from the ceiling to create a whirling, twirling display. It's a simple, engaging way to reinforce the concept while brightening up your space.

So there you have it – a swirl-tastic adventure through nature that’s sure to engage and educate. Happy teaching, and may your days be full of delightful discoveries!

Author: Joyce Sidman

Joyce is the author of many award-winning children’s poetry books, including the Newbery Honor-winning Dark Emperor and Other Poems of the Night, and two Caldecott Honor books. Her recent book The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian’s Art Changed Science won the 2019 Robert F. Sibert Medal. Joyce also has received the NCTE Award for Excellence in Children's Poetry for her body of work. In her home state of Minnesota, she teaches poetry writing to school children and walks through the woods with her dog Watson.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Clarion Books
  • Format: Paperback
  • Print length: 40 pages
  • Dimensions: 23.5 x 0.97 x 23.5 cm
  • Reading age: 5-7 years old
  • Publication date: 13 July 2012
  • ISBN: 054731583X

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A bit more about Joyce Sidman's poetry paired with Beth Krommes.

Joyce Sidman author

Joyce Sidman and Beth Krommes are a dynamic duo in the world of children's literature, bringing poetry and illustrations to life in ways that captivate young minds. Joyce Sidman, an award-winning poet, has a knack for creating verses that are both enchanting and thought-provoking. Her poetry often delves into nature, animals, and the whimsical wonders of the world, making it a perfect fit for curious young readers. Sidman’s work is not just read but experienced, as her words dance off the page and invite children to explore their surroundings with newfound curiosity and awe.

Paired with Sidman’s lyrical prowess is the stunning artistry of Beth Krommes. Krommes, a Caldecott Medal-winning illustrator, uses a distinctive scratchboard technique that adds depth and texture to every page. Her illustrations are rich with detail and complement Sidman’s poetry beautifully, creating a harmonious blend that feels both timeless and fresh. Krommes' illustrations are not just background scenery; they are integral to the storytelling, offering visual narratives that enhance and deepen the reader’s engagement with the text.

Together, Sidman and Krommes create books that are more than just reading material—they are gateways to imagination and discovery. Their collaborations, such as “Swirl by Swirl: Spirals in Nature” and “Butterfly Eyes and Other Secrets of the Meadow,” are perfect for classroom settings and home education alike. These books encourage children to observe, question, and appreciate the natural world, all while enjoying the rhythm and beauty of poetry. For educators and parents looking to instil a love of reading and nature in their young learners, the works of Joyce Sidman and Beth Krommes are a delightful and invaluable resource.

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