Unit Guide

Delaware, Spadefoots, and Squirrels: A Small Wonder

Beth Wagner

“Delaware, Spadefoots, and Squirrels” is an upper elementary unit that focuses on the ever-changing First State. The unit is appropriate for grades 3-5, and it addresses various ELA standards as students read Native American tales, the novel “Night of the Spadefoot Toads” by Bill Harley, and informative texts, to learn about endangered animals in the Mid-Atlantic region. Students will dive into NGSS content when examining maps, charts, and graphs to understand land development and how it affects the area’s native plants and animals. Through the use of graphic organizers and discussion starters, students will organize information in order to make presentations. They will have the option to present virtually or in a written essay, which will address Speaking and Listening Standards. As a final product, all students will write persuasive letters relaying what they have learned to Delaware’s leaders. This unit can easily be adapted to other regions, as many have unique endangered species.