The Visual Dictionary of Buildings
Eyewitness visual dictionaries Series
on Goodreads (23)
What’s inside...
Labeled illustrations with explanatory text depict historical and contemporary structures, architectural elements, and building components from ancient times to the present. A full-color photographic dictionary provides a close-up look at the world of architecture and building construction, with examples ranging from Egyptian temples to modern skyscrapers, presented in dazzling photographs accompanied by charts, diagrams, and plans.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What kind of building do you like best from the book and why?
How do buildings in our town differ from the ones you've seen in the book?
Can you describe how the structure of a building might affect how it is used?
What have you learned about why different cultures might build buildings differently?
Imagine you're an architect; what kind of building would you design and for what purpose?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare buildings they see daily to those in the book, fostering observational and analytical skills.
Discuss the historical and cultural contexts of different buildings shown to enhance their understanding of global diversity.
Challenge your child to sketch their favorite building from the book, discussing the features that make it unique.
Explore together online more images of the buildings found in the book, deepening their interest and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Architecture
Explanation: Through detailed illustrations and explanations, 'The Visual Dictionary of Buildings' invites children to understand various architectural styles and the significance of different types of buildings.
Real-World Application: Children can begin to observe and appreciate the architectural diversity in their surroundings, fostering a deeper connection and respect for cultural and historical landmarks.
Example Lesson: Understanding Functionality and Purpose
Explanation: The book explains the specific functions and purposes of various buildings, encouraging children to think about how design meets human needs.
Real-World Application: This understanding can lead children to think critically about the spaces they inhabit, such as their schools or homes, and consider how these environments serve their needs.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: By portraying buildings from different regions and times, the book highlights the cultural contexts that influence architectural choices, showcasing the diversity of human expression through building.
Real-World Application: This lesson can increase tolerance and curiosity among children about world cultures, prompting them to explore more about world history and geography.
Example Lesson: Environmental Impact
Explanation: The book can also subtly address how buildings interact with the environment, pointing to materials and designs that reflect ecological considerations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by developing an awareness of sustainability and thinking about how their choices impact their environment.