As the leaves start to change and the air gets crisp, it’s the perfect time to dive into an apple-themed unit with your students. Here are some of the best books and videos about apples, along with a fantastic resource for hands-on activities.
Best Books About Apples

- Apples for Everyone by Jill Esbaum This National Geographic Kids book is a wonderful introduction to apples. It covers the life cycle of an apple, different types of apples, and fun apple activities. The vivid photographs and engaging text make it a hit with young readers.
- Apples by Gail Gibbons Gail Gibbons is known for her informative and beautifully illustrated books. In “Apples,” she explores the history of apples, how they grow, and the various uses of apples. This book is perfect for providing a comprehensive overview of apples.
- 10 Apples Up on Top! by Dr. Seuss This classic book is a fun and engaging way to incorporate counting and rhyming into your apple unit. The story of three friends balancing apples on their heads will have your students laughing and learning at the same time.
- Bad Apple: A Tale of Friendship by Edward Hemingway This charming story about an apple named Mac and his friendship with a worm named Will is a great way to discuss themes of friendship and acceptance. The illustrations are delightful, and the story is heartwarming.
- Amelia Bedelia’s First Apple Pie by Herman Parish Join Amelia Bedelia as she makes her first apple pie. This book is perfect for introducing students to the process of baking and the fun (and sometimes funny) mishaps that can happen along the way. It’s a great way to combine literacy with a practical activity.

- Apples for Everyone
- Apples
- An Apple’s Life
- How Do Apples Grow
- Ten Apples Up On Top
- Apples, Apples, Everywhere
- Bad Apple
- Amelia Bedelia’s First Apple Pie
- Steven Kellogg – Johnny Appleseed
- Little Golden Book – Johnny Appleseed
- Ready to Read – Johnny Appleseed
Best Apple Videos
Before playing these videos, you might want to check out this blog post by The Brown Bag Teacher. In it, she explains how to take off ads and commercials when showing YouTube videos in the classroom:
Safely Using Videos in the Classroom
- How Do Apples Grow? This educational video explains the life cycle of an apple tree, from seed to fruit. It’s a great way to visually show students how apples grow and develop. You can find this video on YouTube.
- Apple Fruit Factory Tour Take your students on a virtual field trip to an apple factory. This video shows the process of how apples are sorted, cleaned, and packaged. It’s a fascinating look at the journey apples take from the orchard to the grocery store.
- Planting an Apple Tree This video demonstrates how to plant an apple tree, including the tools and steps needed. It’s a great way to show students the practical side of growing apples and can inspire them to try planting their own trees.
Hands-On Apple Activities Resource
For a comprehensive resource that includes various hands-on activities, check out this Apple Activity Resource. This resource is packed with activities to engage your students and enhance their learning experience. Some of the activities include:
- Making Apple Slime: A fun sensory activity combining science and play.
- Patterns with Apples: Use apples to teach patterns and sequencing.
- Apple Taste Test: Explore different types of apples and their flavors.
- Building a STEM Apple Tower: Challenge students to build a tower using apples and other materials.
- Cross-Curricular Worksheets: These worksheets cover phonics, math, and science skills, all with an apple theme.
This resource is designed to provide a well-rounded educational experience, incorporating various subjects and skills. It’s perfect for keeping students engaged and excited about learning.
Incorporating these books, videos, and activities into your Apple unit will create a rich and engaging learning experience for your students. Happy teaching!
Learn more about this resource and get a free classroom applesauce activity by following the link below!








