The Reading Lab
Welcome to the PACA Reading Lab!
Each week, students will explore a carefully selected book designed to build reading skills, vocabulary, comprehension, confidence, and a love for literature. Our Reading Lab blends brain-based learning, interactive discussion, hands-on activities, and Science of Reading practices to create a meaningful and engaging experience for young readers.
Below you will find the books we will read throughout the session, along with a brief synopsis and lesson dates. Families are encouraged to read and enjoy these stories together at home as we journey through each book in class.
Giraffes Can't Dance
June 2
Gerald the giraffe wants nothing more than to dance at the Jungle Dance, but his long legs and awkward movements make the other animals laugh at him. Feeling discouraged and left out, Gerald begins to believe he cannot dance at all. Everything changes when he meets a friendly cricket who teaches him an important lesson — everyone can dance when they find their own special rhythm. This heartwarming story celebrates confidence, individuality, perseverance, and believing in yourself.
Duck in the Truck
June 9
Duck is driving home in his truck when he suddenly gets stuck in the mud. One by one, his animal friends arrive to help pull the truck free, but getting out is not as easy as it seems! Filled with playful rhymes, silly moments, and teamwork, this fun story helps children build listening, vocabulary, and phonological awareness skills while enjoying a humorous adventure.
Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus
June 16
When the bus driver leaves for a short break, he asks readers to make sure the pigeon does not drive the bus. The pigeon tries everything he can think of to convince readers to let him drive, leading to a hilarious back-and-forth conversation. This highly interactive story encourages participation, prediction, expressive reading, and discussion about rules and choices.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
June 23
A tiny caterpillar hatches from an egg and begins eating through all kinds of foods while growing bigger each day. Along the way, children learn about counting, days of the week, and the life cycle of a butterfly. This classic story combines colorful illustrations with engaging repetition and sequencing that support early literacy and comprehension skills.
Have You Filled a Bucket Today?
June 30
Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud teaches children about kindness, empathy, and the impact their words and actions have on others. Using the idea that everyone carries an invisible bucket, the story shows how caring choices can “fill” someone’s bucket while hurtful actions can “dip” into it. Through simple language and meaningful examples, children learn the importance of kindness, friendship, and making positive choices each day.
Walter's Wonderful Web
July 7
Walter the spider loves creating webs, but his webs are a little different from the others. Instead of simple patterns, Walter spins creative and unusual designs that surprise the animals around him. As Walter continues to use his imagination and talents, the other animals learn to appreciate what makes him special. This charming story celebrates creativity, individuality, perseverance, and the importance of being yourself.
