Materials
First-hand science Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
First Hand Science is an innovative series that explores the science in children's everyday world through a simple story and linked information panels. The books encourage readers to draw on their own experiences to understand science and are suitable for ages 5 and up. Each book is richly illustrated with both 'picture book' illustrations for the story and 'diagramatic' art for the information panels. The series includes titles like 'Materials', where Alex prepares for a party, and 'Water', where Ruth and Shushi explore a paddling pool. Each book concludes with activities, vocabulary, an index, and notes about the book.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What materials did you notice in the book, and which one would you like to explore more about?
How do different materials affect the way we live our daily lives?
Can you think of an innovative way to use any material you learned about in the book?
Why do you think it is important to understand different materials and their properties?
If you could invent a new material, what would it be like and how would it help us?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate the materials mentioned to common household items to make the concepts more tangible for the child.
Encourage the child to touch and feel different materials around them and describe their textures, helping them connect with the book's content.
Ask the child to draw or build something using materials discussed in the book to foster creative thinking and application of knowledge.
Use real-world examples of how different materials are used in various professions to spark interest and broaden understanding.
Praise the child's responses and curiosity to build their confidence in exploring and learning about new concepts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Recycling
Explanation: Through engaging storytelling, 'Materials' explains the process of recycling and its benefits to the environment. This encourages children to think about sustainability.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in recycling activities at home and school, helping them develop environmentally friendly habits early.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: The book showcases various materials being used in creative and innovative ways, sparking imagination in young minds.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to explore and create their own projects using materials available to them, promoting creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Learning Science Concepts
Explanation: 'Materials' simplifies complex scientific concepts like the states of matter and material properties, making it accessible and engaging for children.
Real-World Application: This foundational knowledge helps children understand and observe the world around them, enhancing their academic and real-world understanding of science.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The book highlights characters working together to solve problems using different materials, stressing the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of collaboration and can implement teamwork skills in group activities at school or play.
Example Lesson: Conservation of Resources
Explanation: By discussing the sources of various materials and the need to protect these sources, the book advocates for conservation.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be mindful of how they use resources and the importance of conservation in daily life, such as using less paper to save trees.