Teaching Expertise

Unleash the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss in your classroom with 18 engaging activities that are inspired by “If I Ran the Zoo”. By merging learning with fun, these activities aim to foster curiosity, imagination, and critical thinking among your students- all while delving into the delightful rhymes and vibrant illustrations of this beloved Seuss classic.

1. Spot the Whizzimawhirl

Ever played “I Spy” with a Seussian twist? This printable sheet will help you do just that! Pair your learners up and task them with finding the hidden characters. The team with the most correct answers at the end of the game wins! 

Learn More: Pinterest

2. Nerkle Drawing Challenge

Pick up those pencils and prepare for a Seuss- inspired symmetry exercise! Learners can illustrate their own mysterious Nerkle by filling in the missing half of the image.

3. The Zelf on the Shelf

Creativity takes on a new dimension as your students breathe life into craft supplies to create a quirky Zelf character. Bring out those felt sheets, sequins, googly eyes, and more, and let the crafting fun commence! 

Learn More: Oh Joy!

4. Crafty Bustards

Did someone say avian architects? Have your learners reimagine the Bustard bird with the help of this simple tutorial that guides them on how to bring a paper bird to life. 

Learn More: YouTube

5. Juggling Jott

Ready, set, juggle! Here’s a lesson on coordination and patience that’s inspired the Juggling Jott himself! Invite your students to test their hand at the art of juggling with soft balls or beanbags. 

Learn More: YouTube

6. Skritz-Racing

On your mark, get set, Skritz! Take your class outdoors and up the fun by hosting a race where your students can take on the persona of Skritzs. After the sprint, settle down with a friendly discussion on the importance of teamwork and fair play.

7. Whizzimawhirl Habitat Diorama

In this activity, students will construct miniature habitats for the whimsical Whizzimawhirl. After their dioramas are complete, engage the class in a lively discussion about different ecosystems, habitats, and the living conditions of various species.

8. Mastering the Natch Language

Are your students ready for a Seussian linguistics class? Dive into the wonderful world of Dr. Seuss and explore the fictional Natch language. After a session filled with fun and linguistic exploration, conclude with an engaging conversation about the importance of effective communication and understanding different languages.

9. Seussian Carnival

Your students are sure to love this approach of covering Dr. Suess’s beloved characters! Organize a carnival with booths like “Pin the Tail on the Zelf”, “Flitzer Toss”, and “Skritz Racing.” 

Learn More: Pinterest

10. Gazoom Culinary Art

Assorted fruits and vegetables are all your learners need to create their own tasty Gazooms! Before munching, foster a discussion on the importance of a balanced diet and food aesthetics.

11. The Great Fizza-ma-Wizza-ma-Dill Debate

Engage your learners in a lively debate about whether this fantastic creature should be part of Dr.Seuss’s zoo. Following the deliberation, reflect on the importance of respectful disagreement and listening to others’ perspectives.

12. Creating the Obsk from Scratch

Art class takes a fun turn with students sculpting their versions of the Obsk from playdough. Once their masterpieces are revealed, engage in a conversation about shapes and dimensions- and note how these elements influence structure.

13. Writing the Jott Diary

Spice up your creative writing sessions with a character perspective task! Challenge your learners to maintain a diary from Jott’s perspective. Does he grow tired of juggling all day or does he look forward to adding more punctuation marks to his juggling set? 

14. Gerald McGrew’s Zoology Class

Inspire your students to become Gerald McGrew for a day! As they step into his shoes, they’ll need to present a creature from the book as if they are introducing it to a real zoology class. 

15. If I Ran The Zoo Flipbook

Hand out flipbooks to your students and have them create a narrative inspired by “If I Ran The Zoo”. Following their flipbook creation, encourage a show-and-tell session where each learner can share their unique write-up!  

Learn More: Supply Me

16. If I Ran The Zoo Writing Journal

Time for some imaginative writing! Task your learners with writing about a day in their version of the zoo. After having shared their entries, stimulate a conversation about narrative structure and creative writing endeavors.

Learn More: ABCs of Literacy

17. If I Ran the Zoo Art Project

Have your students craft a unique art piece based on “If I Ran the Zoo” by using assorted materials. They can use anything from modeling clay to wool, pom poms, and other decorative elements. 

Learn More: Preschool Steam

18. If I Ran the Zoo Mazurka Bird Drawing

Invite your kiddos to draw their interpretation of the Mazurka bird. For older learners, couple this artistic pursuit with a discussion about bird anatomy and species variety.

Learn More: YouTube