Tomorrow is Groundhog Day! What's it going to be?

I don't know about you guys, but after spending the afternoon outside today, I am REALLY hoping our friend Phil is NOT going to see his shadow! I could get used to this weather! If you're looking for a last minute story, try Go to Sleep, Groundhog!, by Judy Cox. This groundhog goes to sleep on Columbus Day as planned, yet can't seem to stay asleep! When he wakes in mid-October, a witch puts him back to bed. A turkey helps out in November.  Even Santa tries to work his magic! Of course Groundhog does end up falling asleep. Thankfully, he isn't too cozy to make an appearance on his special day. This is a favorite groundhog story of mine! Happy Groundhog Day! No shadows, please!!!!

Who's it for? This is a great story for anyone five and up! The lower grades will surely enjoy this story!
Reading Level: 2.1

Lesson Plans/Activities:
1. Make a prediction chart. Color little groundhogs and then place them on a shadow/no shadow chart. See who's correct tomorrow!

2. Have your students write or draw about the weather they wish for. How many of you out there are hoping for six more weeks of winter? How many of you are hoping for a little warmer weather?

3. Make a cute little groundhog peaking out of the ground with a plastic cup, green construction paper and a Popsicle stick. Draw a groundhog on a piece of paper and glue it to the stick. Glue the construction paper around the cup and make some fringes at the top to look like grass. Put a hole in the bottom of the cup and slip your  little groundhog up and down! Check out Kylie's cute little guy!