All readers have different needs and deserve high-quality, engaging texts that are appropriate for their reading level and align with their interests. Pairing books with students, however, can be a challenging task, particularly if older students are reading at a lower level. Older students who are still in need of language support from lower-level titles often have limited selections that are outdated or babyish. The books in this list are high-quality, engaging nonfiction texts that are suitable for older readers who are working on building their fluency, vocabulary and background knowledge all while reading books that they can learn from and enjoy. To build your customized collection for your school, reach out to educators@leeandlow.com for more information.
Animals & Insects
A Spider’s Body by Elena Castro, Barbara M. Flores, Eddie Hernández; illustrated by Michael Ramírez, Mary Ramírez-Greene
Level J — Teacher’s Guide
A spider’s body has several parts. This book shows the parts of the body and how a spider uses them.
Big Cats, Little Cats by Bernette Ford
Level A — Teacher’s Guide
Big wild cats and little tame cats. Are they alike? Look inside and see.
Box Turtles by Elena Castro, Barbara M. Flores, Eddie Hernández
Level N
Box turtles are found in the United States and Mexico. Read this book to find out all about them.
The Environment
Recycle, Reuse, and Reduce by Elena Castro, Barbara M. Flores, Eddie Hernández
Level I — Teacher’s Guide
Read this book to find out about some things you can do to help keep our planet, Earth, healthy.
The Sun, Earth, and Moon by Elena Castro, Barbara M. Flores, Eddie Hernández
Level N
Read this book to learn about the three most important objects in our solar system: the sun, Earth, and the moon.
Maize: Plant of the Americas by Elena Castro, Barbara M. Flores, Eddie Hernández
Level O
Maize is an ancient plant grown all over the world. Read this book to find out why it is important.
Folktales
Fabio and the Mayan Festival by Elena Castro, Barbara M. Flores, Eddie Hernández
Level K — Teacher’s Guide
Fabio would like a poncho to wear to the Mayan cultural festival. Read this story to find out what happens.
Quetzalcóatl’s Corn by Elena Castro, Barbara M. Flores, Eddie Hernández; illustrated by Mary Ramírez-Greene
Level K
Read this story to discover the Mexican legend of how corn came to the Aztec people.
The Two Volcanoes by Elena Castro, Barbara M. Flores, Eddie Hernández; illustrated by John Martínez
Level M
Open this book to read the Aztec legend of Izta, Popo, and the two volcanoes.
People & Community
How Do I Help? by Gaylia Taylor
Level A — Teacher’s Guide
Open this book to meet some people who help us every day.
Inventors and Their Inventions by Elena Castro, Barbara M. Flores, Eddie Hernández
Level P
Read this book to learn about some inventors who turned their ideas into inventions that make our lives easier, safer, or tastier!
Simple Machines by Elena Castro, Barbara M. Flores, Eddie Hernández
Level K
Look inside this book to learn about the six kinds of simple machines.
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