Coal
by Kate Jackson Bedford
Aladdin/Watts 2006
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- natural resources
- energy production
- earth science
- environmental impact
- industry and technology
- conservation
- safety
About this book
This informational book introduces how coal forms, how it is mined, and how people use it to make electricity. Clear photos, diagrams, and short chapters help elementary readers grasp big ideas about fossil fuels and where our power comes from. It also touches on safety and environmental concerns in a balanced, age-appropriate way. Great for science reports and for curious kids who like to see how things work.
Setting: real-world coal deposits, mines, and power plants around the world
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Coal right for my child?
Yes — Coal is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.7, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include natural resources, energy production, earth science.
How long does it take to read Coal?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Coal takes around 10m to finish. The book has 1,500 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Coal have an AR quiz?
Yes — Coal has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Coal?
Coal has an AR reading level of 4.7, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.