There’s a Fungus Among Us! (24/7: Science Behind the Scenes: Medical Files)
#1 in 24/7: Science Behind The Scenes: Mystery Files Series
on Goodreads (26)
What’s inside...
Discover Fungus!!! Science as inquiry is the core of this dynamic, investigative, high-interest series which focuses on the science and technology used to solve real-life crimes and mysteries, and includes chapter summaries, reading cues, and sidebar interviews.
Discussion points
What did you find most surprising about how fungi affect our lives?
Can you think of ways fungi might be helpful or harmful that weren't mentioned in the book?
Why do you think it's important for scientists to study fungi?
How do you think the world would be different if fungi didn't exist?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the role of fungi in the environment and in medicine. After reading the book, ask them to summarize the main points to reinforce their understanding. Prompt them to relate the content to their daily lives, asking how they think fungi might play a part in their own world. Lastly, consider guiding them to conduct a simple experiment at home, like growing mold on bread, to see the effects of fungi firsthand.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of cleanliness and hygiene
Explanation: The book explores various fungal infections and emphasizes the necessity of maintaining good hygiene to prevent them.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by adopting daily habits like washing hands regularly and keeping their environments clean to stay healthy.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and scientific exploration
Explanation: The storyline encourages readers to explore and learn about the mysterious and often overlooked world of fungi and their impact on medical science.
Real-World Application: This lesson can motivate children to engage in science experiments, ask questions, and seek answers about the natural world around them in their everyday life.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: The book presents various scenarios where doctors and scientists solve medical mysteries involving fungi, showcasing the use of critical thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can use critical thinking skills to approach problems in school or in their personal lives, analyzing situations thoroughly before coming to a conclusion.
Example Lesson: Awareness of environmental impact on health
Explanation: Through its discussions on fungi, the book illustrates how environmental factors can influence health conditions.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to be more observant about their surroundings and understand how their environment can directly affect their well-being.