Ada Lovelace Cracks the Code
What’s inside...
From the world of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls comes a story based on the exciting adventures of Ada Lovelace: one of the world’s first computer programmers.
Growing up in nineteenth century London, England, Ada is curious about absolutely everything. She is obsessed with machines and with creatures that fly. She even designs her own flying laboratory!
According to her mother, Ada is a bit too wild, so she encourages Ada to study math. At first Ada thinks: Bleh! Who can get excited about a subject without pictures? But she soon falls in love with it. One day she encounters a mysterious machine, and from that moment forward Ada imagines a future full of possibility—one that will eventually inspire the digital age nearly two hundred years later.
Ada Lovelace Cracks the Code is the story of a pioneer in the computer sciences, and a testament to women’s invaluable contributions to STEM throughout history.
Includes additional text on Ada Lovelace’s lasting legacy, as well as educational activities designed to teach simple coding and mathematical concepts.
Why read this book
- Inspires girls in STEM through Ada Lovelace's story.
- Encourages computational thinking and problem-solving.
- Highlights resilience and curiosity in learning.
- Engaging narrative enhances literacy and focus.
Age
8-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What challenges did Ada Lovelace face, and how did she overcome them?
Why do you think Ada Lovelace was so passionate about mathematics and science?
How do you think Ada's inventions from the past influence our technology today?
What would you invent to help people if you had Ada's skills?
How do you feel about Ada's relationship with her mentor, Charles Babbage?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on Ada Lovelace's achievements to set a reflective tone. Encourage your child to think critically by asking them what they would do differently if they were in Ada's shoes. Draw parallels between Ada's time and today, exploring continuous learning and innovation. Utilize the book's illustrations to discuss the 19th-century setting and how it contrasts with the modern world. Finally, celebrate Ada's perseverance and creativity, emphasizing these as valuable traits.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in Problem Solving
Explanation: Ada Lovelace demonstrates a persistent approach to challenging mathematical problems, never giving up despite obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistence in their studies or when facing any difficulties in life, understanding that effort leads to success.
Example Lesson: Importance of Education
Explanation: Ada's thirst for knowledge and her educational journey is a central theme, emphasizing her growth and contributions to computing.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value their schooling and seek out learning opportunities to achieve their potential and make impactful contributions.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Science and Math
Explanation: Ada uses her imagination to expand upon Charles Babbage's ideas, showing that creativity is not limited to the arts.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to apply creative thinking in scientific and mathematical contexts, exploring new ways to understand and innovate.
Example Lesson: Breaking Gender Stereotypes
Explanation: Ada Lovelace excels in mathematics and computing, fields traditionally dominated by men, challenging societal expectations of her time.
Real-World Application: This story teaches children that they can excel in any field of interest regardless of gender, promoting gender equality and self-confidence.
Example Lesson: Collaboration and Mentorship
Explanation: Ada’s partnership with Charles Babbage highlights how collaboration and seeking guidance from more experienced individuals can lead to greater innovations.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of teamwork and mentorship in achieving goals and expanding knowledge, applicable in school projects and beyond.