Apps: From Concept to Consumer (Calling All Innovators: a Career for You)
#1 in Calling All Innovators: A Career For You Series
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
Learn how the first mobile apps were created and find out which apps are making the biggest splash today. The 'Calling All Innovators' series introduces students to careers in science and technology. The complex text allows readers (Grades 5-8) to determine the main idea and explain how it is supported by key details. In recent years, mobile devices have become increasingly popular, leading to a boom in mobile apps. Readers will learn how to create their own apps and what it takes to achieve success in the app stores.
Discussion points
What steps are involved in creating an app, and which part do you think would be the most challenging?
How do apps impact our daily lives, and can you think of an app idea that could help people?
What skills do you think are important for someone who wants to develop apps?
How do teamwork and collaboration play a role in developing successful apps?
Why is it important to understand the needs of app users, and how can developers ensure their apps are user-friendly?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the app development process by asking them to outline the steps they would take to create their own app.
Discuss the importance of problem-solving and creativity in technology, relating it to everyday scenarios to make it more relatable.
Ask your child to think about their favorite apps and what makes them so appealing, fostering a discussion about user experience and design.
Highlight the significance of teamwork in creating apps by discussing how different people with various skills come together to make an app.
Use examples of popular apps to discuss the importance of understanding user needs and how that influences the design and functionality of an app.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Innovation and Creativity
Explanation: The book explains the journey of app development from idea to market, emphasizing the role of creativity in crafting useful and engaging apps.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by trying their hand at creating simple project ideas, which nurtures their problem-solving skills and encourages innovative thinking in everyday tasks.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The story highlights the challenges faced during app development, such as coding issues and market acceptance, teaching that perseverance is key.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children in persisting with their studies or hobbies, even when they face difficulties or setbacks.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The book shows that creating an app often requires collaboration among individuals with diverse skills, illustrating the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to work collaboratively in group settings whether in school projects or team sports, promoting a harmonious and effective team environment.
Example Lesson: Understanding Technology
Explanation: It details the technical process of app creation, providing a foundational understanding of technology and its applications.
Real-World Application: This knowledge allows children to be more informed about how technology works, making them more confident and curious about using it constructively.
Example Lesson: Economic Literacy
Explanation: The book covers the business aspects of app development including budgeting and profit, offering basics in economic literacy.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to understand the value of money, make thoughtful decisions about spending and saving, and possibly inspire entrepreneurial thinking.