on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
A close-up look at the world of music discusses the history of music and the development of the diverse types of wind, percussion, brass, string, and electronic instruments--from early panpipes to high-tech synthesizers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-6
Length
10 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What feelings did you experience while reading about the different musical adventures?
Which character in the book would you like to be friends with, and why?
How do you think music affects the way characters in the book interact with each other?
What types of music would you like to explore after reading this book?
If you could create a musical instrument, what would it sound like and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences with music, whether in school, at home, or at a concert.
Ask your child to describe the emotions and images they envision while discussing the musical elements of the story.
Create a playful environment by humming or tapping along to mimic musical sounds mentioned in the book, making the reading experience interactive.
After reading, listen to some music together that reflects the genres or instruments discussed in the book, discussing what feelings and images each type of music evokes.
Use descriptive language from the book to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for different musical expressions and their impact on storytelling.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Diversity
Explanation: The book 'Music' by Dana Simpson explores various musical genres from around the world, emphasizing the rich cultural diversity in music.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences through music, and be encouraged to explore and embrace diverse musical styles in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Characters in 'Music' often collaborate to create harmonious performances, showcasing how working together can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of cooperating with others, whether it's in school projects, sports, or other group activities, emphasizing how teamwork can lead to better outcomes.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: The book encourages children to express themselves through different forms of music, highlighting the importance of creativity.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to engage in creative activities such as playing an instrument or singing, helping them to express their feelings and boost their self-confidence.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Practice
Explanation: Through the characters' continuous practice and dedication to music, the book demonstrates that persistence is key to mastering a skill.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to persevere in their own learning and hobbies, understanding that regular practice and dedication are essential to achievement.
Example Lesson: Joy of Learning
Explanation: The excitement and satisfaction the characters feel when learning and playing music are palpable throughout the book,
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to discover and engage in activities that bring them joy and satisfaction, fostering a lifelong love for learning.