#8 in Magic School Bus Series
The Magic School Bus Spins A Web
on Goodreads (5,063)
What’s inside...
A book in which Ms. Frizzle's class are on the Magic School Bus headed for a museum. They ended up in a lot of sticky situations when they bumped into a spider web. They learn about spiders and their hunting techniques when they transform into spiders themselves.
Character compass
Discussion points
Why do you think the Magic School Bus turned into a spider, and how does that help the students learn?
What did you find most surprising about the way spiders live and survive?
Can you think of any other animals that have unique ways of protecting themselves like spiders do with their webs?
How do you think the characters felt when they were exploring the spider's world? Which character would you like to be and why?
If you could create your own Magic School Bus adventure, what creature or habitat would you explore?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about spiders and webs. This can activate prior knowledge and increase interest.
While reading, pause to discuss the illustrations, particularly how they enhance understanding of spiders and their environment. Ask how the visuals help explain the text.
Encourage your child to predict what will happen next in the story, building anticipation and engagement.
After finishing the book, relate the theme to your child’s experiences by discussing any encounters they've had with spiders or other insects.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Interdependence in ecosystems
Explanation: The story illustrates how every creature, big or small, plays a significant role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem. The Magic School Bus adventure showcases how spiders control insect populations.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of every organism in nature and can be encouraged to explore their local ecosystems, showing respect and care for all living things.
Example Lesson: The scientific method
Explanation: Ms. Frizzle's class uses observation and data to learn about spiders, demonstrating the steps of the scientific method.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to observe, question, and experiment in their daily lives, helping them understand and solve problems logically and methodically.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: The students in the Magic School Bus work together on their field trip to learn about spiders, each contributing to the group's learning experience.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value teamwork, understanding that collaborative efforts can lead to greater achievements and learning in school projects and other activities.
Example Lesson: Courage to explore new things
Explanation: Despite initial fears, the students bravely explore the world of spiders and gain valuable knowledge, overcoming their apprehensions.
Real-World Application: This lesson can empower children to face and overcome their fears, encouraging them to embrace new challenges and experiences with an open mind.