A Nest Is Noisy

A Nest Is Noisy
by Dianna Hutts Aston

Are you ready to dive into the wonderful, chirping world of "A Nest Is Noisy"? This enchanting children's book by Dianna Hutts Aston and Sylvia Long is a real gem for primary school teachers and home educators alike. Let's flap our wings together and explore why this book is a must-have for your educational toolkit.

Firstly, "A Nest Is Noisy" is a visual feast! Sylvia Long's gorgeous illustrations bring to life the diverse array of nests found in nature, from the tiniest hummingbird's teacup-sized home to the sprawling, intricate structures built by social weaver birds. These images are not only captivating but also serve as a fantastic springboard for engaging activities and discussions. Imagine the excitement in your classroom as students create their own nests using art supplies or go on a nature walk to spot different bird homes.

But wait, there's more! The text by Dianna Hutts Aston is both lyrical and informative, making it a perfect read-aloud book. Each page is packed with fascinating facts about nests and the creatures that build them. This makes it easy to integrate into various subjects, whether you're focusing on biology, environmental science, or even engineering. For example, you could have a fun STEM challenge where students design and build their own bird nests using materials you provide.

Lastly, "A Nest Is Noisy" promotes critical thinking and curiosity. It encourages young minds to ask questions and explore the world around them. Why do different birds build different types of nests? How do animals protect their young? These are just a few of the inquiries that can spark engaging classroom discussions or at-home learning projects.

So, spread your wings and add "A Nest Is Noisy" to your collection. It's a delightful way to bring nature's wonders into your teaching, making learning a joyful and noisy adventure!

Author: Dianna Hutts Aston

Dianna Hutts Aston is the author of many books for children and is the founder of the non-profit foundation for disadvantaged children, The Oz Project. She lives in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

Illustrator: Sylvia Long

Sylvia Long is the illustrator of many best-selling books for children, including Sylvia Long's Mother Goose and Hush Little Baby. She lives in Scottsdale, Arizona, with her husband and their dogs.

Book Details:

Publisher: Chronicle Books
Format: Hardback
Print length: 40 pages
Dimensions: 9 x 11 V
Reading age: 5-8 years old
Publication date: 04/14/2015
ISBN: 9781452127132

Read alongside these topics:

Birds

How can using A Nest Is Noisy help in teaching Y1 Science Birds?

Using "A Nest Is Noisy" can be an effective tool in teaching Year 1 (Y1) Science, particularly in the context of exploring birds and their habitats. This book not only introduces young learners to the concept of bird nests but also engages them in critical thinking and hands-on activities that align with inquiry-based learning principles. Here’s how it can be utilized effectively:

Engaging with the Book

Fostering Curiosity: "A Nest Is Noisy" encourages children to ask questions about birds and their nests, promoting curiosity about the natural world. This aligns with the goal of inquiry-based learning, where students explore and investigate topics actively rather than passively receiving information.
Discussion Starters: The book provides a foundation for discussions about different types of nests, materials used by birds, and the purpose of these structures. Teachers can ask students questions such as, "What do you think makes a good nest?" or "Why do birds choose certain materials?" This stimulates critical thinking and allows children to express their thoughts and ideas.

Hands-On Activities

Building Nests: Following the reading, students can engage in a hands-on activity where they create their own bird nests using natural materials. This could involve collecting twigs, leaves, and other items from the schoolyard or home. The activity can be structured with specific parameters, such as ensuring the nest holds a certain number of "eggs" (e.g., jelly beans or small balls) to incorporate engineering principles into the lesson.
Role-Playing: Students can pretend to be birds searching for ideal nesting sites. This imaginative play enhances their understanding of bird behavior and habitat selection while making learning fun and interactive.

Integrating Science Concepts

Exploring Materials: Through discussions and activities, students can learn about the various materials birds use to construct their nests, distinguishing between natural and man-made items. This exploration helps them understand ecological concepts and the importance of biodiversity.
Life Cycle Learning: Teachers can integrate lessons about bird life cycles alongside nest-building activities. For example, after reading the book, educators might introduce concepts such as egg development and fledging, reinforcing biological science standards for Y1 students.

Conclusion

Incorporating "A Nest Is Noisy" into Y1 Science lessons provides a multifaceted approach to learning about birds. By combining reading with interactive activities, teachers can foster a rich educational environment that promotes inquiry, creativity, and scientific understanding among young learners.