A Book of Discovery The History of the World's Exploration, From the Earliest Times to the Finding of the South Pole
on Goodreads (83)
What’s inside...
A thoroughly fascinating book about the world's exploration from the earliest times to the discovery of the South Pole. A book to be owned by older boys and girls who like true tales of adventure.
Age
12-15
Length
188 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the explorers to travel to unknown places?
How do you think the world has changed as a result of these explorations?
If you were an explorer, what would you like to discover and why?
What qualities do you think are important for an explorer to have?
How do you think the explorers felt when they discovered something new?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own curiosity about different parts of the world or unknown places.
Encourage your child to relate the explorers' experiences to their own adventures, like a new school or a family trip.
Discuss the character traits of the explorers in the book and ask your child which traits they admire or would like to develop.
Use a world map or globe to trace the routes of some of the explorations mentioned in the book.
After reading, suggest creating a 'discovery journal' where your child can document their daily discoveries, no matter how big or small.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and the value of exploration
Explanation: The book chronicles the adventurous spirits of explorers throughout history, showing how their curiosity led to new discoveries about the world.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive and explore different subjects, places, and cultures to gain a broader understanding of the world around them.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through challenges
Explanation: Many explorers faced significant hardships and setbacks during their journeys. The book demonstrates how they persevered through these challenges.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of resilience and determination in overcoming obstacles in learning and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Respect for diverse cultures and histories
Explanation: The book details encounters with various cultures around the world and highlights the importance of respect and understanding.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and respect people from different backgrounds, fostering a more inclusive attitude and enhancing social interactions.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Explorers often had to think critically and devise solutions for navigation, survival, and interaction with new environments and societies.
Real-World Application: Helps children develop problem-solving skills by encouraging them to think critically and innovatively in their daily challenges.
Example Lesson: Importance of history and learning from the past
Explanation: Through recounting historical explorations, the book illustrates how past events shape the present and influence the future.
Real-World Application: Promotes an understanding of history as a tool for learning life lessons and making informed decisions, fostering a deeper appreciation for the past.