Where Does the Garbage Go
by Paul Showers
HarperTrophy 1994
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 4.2 (4th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
Themes include environmental stewardship
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Genre
Themes
- environmental stewardship
- recycling
- community responsibility
- conservation
- cause and effect
- problem-solving
About this book
This Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science book follows what happens to our trash after it’s tossed—from garbage trucks and landfills to recycling centers and ways to reduce waste. Clear text and engaging illustrations help young readers understand big environmental ideas in a simple, reassuring way. It’s perfect for early elementary students curious about how communities handle garbage and how kids can help the planet. Parents and teachers appreciate its real-world connections and easy-to-discuss tips.
Setting: modern-day communities, landfills, incinerators, and recycling centers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Where Does the Garbage Go right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Where Does the Garbage Go. The reading level is AR 4.2, which is typical for 4th 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 environmental stewardship, recycling, community responsibility.
How long does it take to read Where Does the Garbage Go?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Where Does the Garbage Go takes around 8m to finish. The book has 1,180 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Where Does the Garbage Go have an AR quiz?
Yes — Where Does the Garbage Go 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 Where Does the Garbage Go?
Where Does the Garbage Go has an AR reading level of 4.2, which places it at a 4th 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.