CricketTogether Unit Descriptions

The following units are available for CricketTogether’s standard platform and the Virtual Mentoring Portal.

Getting Started with CricketTogether

What is CricketTogether? Why are we using CricketTogether in our classroom this year? Students and eMentors exchange their first letters introducing themselves and sharing information.

Reading
Informational

Alternative Energy

Energy sources like gas and coal won’t last forever. Read about how the sun, wind, and plants can be used as cleaner, renewable energy.

Reading
Informational,
Earth Science

Amazing Animals

It’s a rough world out there when all you have are your instincts, a few unique characteristics, and some unusual ways of defending yourself. Find out how animals use their special traits and abilities to survive.

Reading
Informational,
Life Science

Building on My Strengths

Strengths and limitations—we all have them. Learning to recognize your strengths will help you to develop those strengths throughout your life. Read about how others have built on the qualities that make them strong and unique.

Social
Emotional

Clean Water for a Thirsty Planet

Explore how scientists are solving the world's water crisis for the billions of people who need safe and clean water to drink.

Reading
Informational,
Earth Science

Dollars and Sense

What roles does money play in our daily lives? Learn about the different ways money is saved, borrowed, and used.

Economics,
Personal and
Consumer Health,
Reading Literature,
Reading Informational

Fairy Tales

From “Once upon a time” to “Happily ever after,” find out more about fairy tales and why their spells still enchant readers.

Culture,
Reading Literature

Family Matters

These stories celebrate the differences that make each family unique and how family members support and depend on each other.

Reading
Literature,
Social Emotional

First Americans: Native Peoples and the Land

Meet the first American Indians and see how many facets of their lives reflected a deep relationship with their land.

Geography,
History,
Reading Literature,
Reading Informational,

Folktales from Around the World

Familiar plots that reveal a rich tapestry of tradition and culture are handed down through generations.

Culture,
Reading Literature

Getting Along

Getting along with others requires communication, cooperation, and the ability to manage conflict. Read about how others have learned to stand up for themselves and others in respectful and compassionate ways.
(not available for VMP)

Social
Emotional

I Can Invent

What does it take to invent something? How can kids invent things that matter? Inventions are all around us. They solve problems and make our lives easier. Students learn about the invention process and meet some young inventors by reading about them and their work.

Reading
Informational,
Tech and Design

Into the Rainforest

Rainforests have been called “jewels of the planet.” Why are rainforests so special and what can we do to protect them?

Reading
Informational,
Life Science

Kids and the Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution was a time of invention that changed the way families lived and worked and has greatly impacted how we live today.

History,
Reading
Informational

Making Good Decisions

We all make decisions every day. Read about how young people have influenced and inspired others with their decisions.

Social
Emotional

Managing My Fears

Everyone gets scared sometimes. Reading about what scares people can help you learn to manage and overcome your fears.

Social
Emotional

Solving Problems

These stories challenge readers to recognize problem-solving strategies put to use in realistic situations.

Reading
Literature,
Social Emotional

Standing Up for Yourself

These stories will show how several characters bravely learned to stand up for themselves, and for others.

Reading
Literature,
Social Emotional

The Facts about COVID-19

Learn facts from scientists and doctors about COVID-19. Find out what we can do to keep ourselves and our communities safe.

Reading
Informational,
Disease Prevention
and Control

Trickster Tales

Hear entertaining stories from around the world! Read about crafty characters who rely on their wits to find clever ways of getting what they need.

Culture,
Reading Literature

Understanding Others

Everyone has their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Learning to understand others helps you to develop compassion, empathy, and concern. Read about how others have learned to look and listen carefully in order to better understand others.
(not available for VMP)

Social
Emotional

Wheelin' Around

From chariot wheels to wheels on the Mars Rover, explore the roots of this ancient invention and how it makes our lives easier today.

Reading
Informational,
Physical Science

Reflection

Students reflect on what they've learned from CricketTogether and reread their letter exchanges, then write a final letter to their eMentor expressing appreciation and saying goodbye.