Deserts

Title Information:­ Deserts: Deserts explores different types of deserts, their characteristics, and how they are formed. It also discusses the various adaptations of plants and animals that enable them to survive in harsh desert environments.Content vocabulary:adaptation, annuals, arid, cold currents, drought, erosion, nocturnal, nomads, plateaus, polar, saltpans, semi-arid, subtropical, succulents, topsoilKey concepts: Deserts are places where there is very little rainfall (less than 40 millimetres per year)  There are different types of deserts, with each type forming in a unique way and having a certain set of characteristics  It is difficult for living things to survive in deserts, but some plants and animals are able to do so because they are well adapted to this environmentReading Strategies: Comparing and contrasting informationRelated resource:Lesson Plan - DesertsSeries Information: WorldWise is a high-interest literacy program that encourages inquiry and questioning while extending knowledge in science and a range of STEM topics linked to the curriculum. This engaging program teaches reading strategies simultaneously with natural, earth and physical science concepts – reflecting the diversity of the world students live in.Students will develop strategies and skills to read informative texts across a range of text types while they learn to become informative text writers. With an assortment of text types on offer, themes and concepts are introduced and revisited across the reading stages, building on initial concepts with increasing complexity.WorldWise Lesson Plans support each Student Book, offering practical, systematic and easy-to-implement instructions. These visually appealing resources integrate oral language, vocabulary development, fluency and comprehension, writing and phonics.WorldWise Investigations is a web-based tool that provides extension activities for titles in the program. It encourages exploration of content linked to curriculum outcomes in a deeper more hands-on way. Students are supported with a framework that encourages investigation and inquiry.This series is supported by an array of teacher resources which can be obtained by visiting www.worldwise.com.au