The Very Hungry Caterpillar

What kid doesn’t love chocolate cake, ice cream cones, cupcakes or cherry pie? The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle includes all of those things AND a great science lesson, too! This book is a fantastically colorful example of how to bring children’s literature into all subject areas.

How do you think that this book could fit into a science lesson?

Billie: The main way it could be used in science is by discussing the life cycle of a caterpillar to a butterfly. This whole book is about a little bity caterpillar eating his way to becoming a very big caterpillar. Then he goes into his cocoon and a couple weeks later emerges as a big, beautiful butterfly.

Cami: Yes. And it fits perfectly with the second grade standard: S2L1. Students will investigate the life cycles of different living organisms.

Do you think that this book will be appropriate for second graders?

Cami: I think this book could be used in a second grade classroom, but some of the kids might think it’s a “baby book”. But even big bad 8 year olds can enjoy a book like this, because it’s still a fun story to read, and the illustrations are so good that they will help with keeping their attention.
Billie: That is the one draw back to using that particular standard with this book. This book was clearly written for a younger audience. I think that when used appropriately a classroom full of 2^nd graders could definitely enjoy it. It would be a great opening for a life cycle unit. But, I also don’t think it is ever too early to start exposing younger children to “older kid” standards. So I think that if you want your kids to be prepared for 2^nd grade, this book could also be used in kindergarten or 1^st grade!

What was the best part of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, in your opinion?

Billie: I feel like I always say this, but the pictures were so great! And my favorite part was when the caterpillar is eating all of his food, and each food picture has a hole in it, emulating that he took a bite out of all the food. Such a cute touch!
Cami: I agree with Billie! The illustrations in this story are just wonderful! The holes in the pictures to show what the caterpillar ate, and the vibrancy of the colors is just amazing!

How engaging was this book?
Billie: This book was short and sweet! I think it was full of great information and wonderful pictures. But it was also straight to the point. It doesn’t give kids any time to get bored or disengage at all.
Cami: I think it was very engaging, you want to keep reading to get to the end to find out what else the caterpillar will eat, or what will happen to him.   It also has a great educational component. I see this book as a win/win!

If you decide that you like how this book approaches the life cycle of a caterpillar or if you are like us and just love the book, you might be interested in checking out this pin from pinterest. A teacher decorated her door to look like The Very Hungry Caterpillar. She used construction paper and balloons... It is adorable!!!
Hungry Caterpillar Door Decoration