Ep 5. Chickens Aren't the Only Ones

Reading Rainbow is an educational television series that aims to promote literacy and encourage a love of reading in children. Season 3 episode 5, titled "Chickens Aren't the Only Ones," explores the world of oviparous animals - creatures that lay eggs.

The episode begins with host LeVar Burton introducing viewers to various animals that lay eggs, such as chickens, ducks, and geese. He explains that while these may be the most commonly known oviparous animals, there are many other species that lay eggs too. LeVar takes viewers on a journey to a farm where they get to see firsthand how eggs are collected, sorted, and packaged for delivery to supermarkets.

Next, LeVar travels to a nearby zoo to see some more unusual and exotic egg-laying animals. He meets a komodo dragon, the world's largest lizard, and an emu, the second-largest bird in the world, which both lay enormous eggs. LeVar also visits a reptile house to meet some snakes and lizards that lay eggs, including the boa constrictor and the iguana.

Throughout the episode, LeVar emphasizes the importance of understanding where our food comes from and how it's produced. He talks to farmers and animal experts about the process of raising chickens for their eggs and how farmers use different breeds to produce different sized eggs. LeVar also explains how eggs are an essential ingredient in many dishes and even demonstrates how to make a tasty omelet using fresh eggs from the farm.

To further reinforce the episode's theme, LeVar reads two picture books to viewers. The first is "An Extraordinary Egg" by Leo Lionni, which tells the story of three frogs who stumble upon a mysterious object that they think is an egg but turns out to be something entirely unexpected. The second book is "Chickens Aren't the Only Ones" by Ruth Heller, which introduces children to the world of oviparous animals. The book features vibrant illustrations and rhyming text that make learning about these creatures fun and engaging.

As always, Reading Rainbow provides a fun and educational experience for children. "Chickens Aren't the Only Ones" teaches kids about the diversity of life on our planet and the importance of understanding where our food comes from. The episode is packed with fascinating facts and engaging activities that are sure to inspire a love of learning in young viewers.