Leonardo da Vinci: A Nonfiction Companion to Magic Tree House Merlin Mission #10: Monday with a Mad Genius
#19 in Magic Tree House Series
What’s inside...
The Magic Tree House series celebrates 25 years with new covers and an easy-to-use numbering system. Jack and Annie return from their adventure in 'Magic Tree House Merlin Mission #10: Monday with a Mad Genius' with questions about Leonardo da Vinci. They explore his interest in flight, his famous paintings, and his notebooks. The Fact Trackers provide up-to-date information, photos, illustrations, and fun tidbits to help kids learn more about topics from their favorite Magic Tree House adventures. The series offers books for all levels of readers, including chapter books, Merlin Missions, Super Editions, and nonfiction Fact Trackers.
Character compass
Jack
Annie
Leonardo Da Vinci
Discussion points
What are some of the inventions or discoveries made by Leonardo da Vinci that you found fascinating?
How do you think Leonardo da Vinci's curiosity helped him in achieving his accomplishments?
If you could ask Leonardo da Vinci one question about his work, what would it be?
Why do you think creativity and imagination are important in making discoveries or creating art?
How can we apply Leonardo da Vinci's approach to learning in our daily life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own curiosity about Leonardo da Vinci and his works to inspire a mutual exploration of his life and achievements.
Encourage your child to relate da Vinci’s inventions or ideas to modern innovations they are familiar with, fostering connections between past and present.
Ask open-ended questions that prompt your child to think critically about how da Vinci’s work continues to influence our world today.
Use illustrations or passages from the book as a visual aid to stimulate discussion and deepen understanding of specific topics covered.
Praise your child’s insights and curiosity to build their confidence in expressing themselves and exploring new ideas.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and a love for learning
Explanation: The book portrays Leonardo da Vinci's relentless pursuit of knowledge and understanding in various fields, emphasizing his curiosity and dedication.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore diverse subjects that pique their interest, promoting lifelong learning and intellectual growth.
Example Lesson: The value of creativity and imagination
Explanation: Leonardo’s inventive ideas and creative masterpieces are highlighted, showing children how imagination can lead to great achievements.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think creatively in their problem-solving and express themselves through art or creative writing.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of challenges
Explanation: The book depicts some of the challenges Leonardo faced, such as projects that did not always succeed, and illustrates his persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn that setbacks are part of the learning process and that perseverance can lead to success.
Example Lesson: The importance of observation and detail
Explanation: Leonardo da Vinci's acute observational skills are showcased, explaining how his attention to detail contributed to his art and scientific studies.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children improve their own observation skills, aiding in academic subjects and in understanding the world around them.