Plastic
by Rhonda Lucas Donald
Capstone 2000
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- materials science
- how things are made
- technology and industry
- everyday science
- recycling and environmental responsibility
- curiosity and discovery
About this book
This short nonfiction book explains what plastic is, how it’s made from simple building blocks, and why it’s used in so many everyday items. Clear photos and straightforward text walk young readers through factories and familiar objects to show plastic’s journey from raw material to products. Along the way, kids learn basic science ideas in an accessible way. Perfect for early elementary readers curious about how things are made.
Setting: modern factories and everyday environments
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Plastic right for my child?
Yes — Plastic is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.7, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include materials science, how things are made, technology and industry.
How long does it take to read Plastic?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Plastic takes around 7m to finish. The book has 900 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Plastic have an AR quiz?
Yes — Plastic 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 Plastic?
Plastic has an AR reading level of 3.7, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — 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.