Penguin Problems is part of our Starts With a Story Collection, which includes more than 550 picture book companions based on high quality children’s literature that support you in delivering highly-engaging interactive read alouds with follow up activities. Learn more about this children’s book below! - Jodi and the Starts With a Story Team
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SUMMARY
"Penguin Problems" by Jory John tells the story of a grumpy penguin who can't seem to find happiness in his icy world. The penguin complains about everything, from the cold weather to his wobbly walk. But when a wise walrus gives him a different perspective, the penguin begins to see the beauty and joy around him. Through humorous and relatable situations, the book explores the theme of gratitude and finding contentment in life. The witty text and expressive illustrations by Lane Smith bring the penguin's personality to life and engage readers with the penguin's humorous complaints. Ultimately, "Penguin Problems" teaches a valuable lesson about embracing positivity and appreciating the simple joys in life.
 USE THIS BOOK TO TEACH:
Our read aloud lesson plans for this picture book come with reading comprehension questions (with sample student responses), 30 writing prompts, teaching ideas for grammar skills, social emotional learning discussion ideas, and more. Check out our list below to get a sneak peek at some of the skills this resource teaches.
- Discuss the different characters in the story and analyze their thoughts and actions.
- Discuss the books plot and examine the problem and solution.
- Help students to analyze what the author’s purpose for writing the book might be.
- Analyze the setting of this book. Discuss where and when it takes place.
- Teach students how contractions are used.
- Explore the theme of gratitude and have students brainstorm ways they can help show gratitude.
- Discuss mindfulness with students and practice a mindfulness activity with them.
NO-PREP PRINTABLE ACTIVITIES:
If you are looking for “ready to go” activities for the first day of school, be sure to check out the book companion. With it you’ll receive all of the following resources to align with this specific book:
- comprehension questions
- 30Â writing prompts with themed paper
- vocabulary activities
- word study print & go activities
- ideas for grammar lessons with focus sentence printables
- social emotional learning discussion topics
- graphic organizers to target specific comprehension skills and strategies
This book is a must have for your school or classroom library. Your students are going to love completing these activities for the book and you will be impressed with how much they learn. You will want to read this book to your class every year.
GET THE PRINTABLE ACTIVITIES
ADDITIONAL BOOK SUGGESTIONS
You and your students will love the similar books listed below, which can all be found in our free picture book list.
- Giraffe Problems by Jory John
- The Bad Seed by Jory John
- The Cool Bean by Jory John
- The Couch Potato by Jory John
- The Good Egg by Jory John
- The Great Eggscape by Jory John
- The Smart Cookie by Jory John
- The Sour Grape by Jory John
TRY OUT A SAMPLE COMPANION
It's hard to explain how amazing the Starts with a Story book companions are because there is just so much goodness included in each one. It's best if you experience using one for yourself. Sign up below & we'll send you an entire book companion to try out for FREE!
