This is a story about a spider that begins to spin her web on a fence post.  One by one, the animals on a nearby farm try to divert her, each one in thier own way.  The busy little spider though, ignores each and keeps patintly at her work.

This is a great book to reinforce younger students in shapes, patterns, and size.  Eric Carle gives the students the ability not only to see the pictures but feel them as well.  The children are able to experience feeling the spider's web as it grows from a simple line into a complex and beautiful creation.

Begin by reading the students The Very Busy Spider, pointing out the patterns and shapes that the spider is making in its web.

Ask the students if they can tell  you what shapes they see in the spiders web, (triangles, circles, etc).

After you have read the book and discussed it with the class, have the students create thier own "webs".

Show the students the web that you have already constructed,pointing out the  different color triangle cut outs used for the base and the different color markers used for the circular top. Point out the shapes and patterns you have found in the web as ask them to point out any more they can see.

Pass out the cut out triangles, the markers and the construction paper.  While the students are constructing thier webs, have them notice the patterns being made and the shapes they are creating throughout thier web.

* For older students you could have the students construct a web with string and nails, this may be too hard for the younger students though.

The Eric Carle official Website

Other Lesson Plans

Mrs. Youngs Literature website

Amazon webpage