About-Face Space Race (AstroKids Book 5)
#5 of 10 in AstroKids Series
on Goodreads (15)
What’s inside...
When a space scooter race on CLEO-7 becomes a battle between the boys and the girls, the AstroKids need a reminder to work together as a team. Everybody knows you should love your neighbor and help those in need, but does that apply when you're in the middle of the biggest race of the year? That's what the ASTROKIDS find out in this book from Robert Elmer. It's time for the spacepod race and the ASTROKIDS are determined to win. Boys against girls sounded like such a good idea--and each side was convinced they'd beat the other. But when unexpected problems force them to work together or not compete, will they be able to put aside their differences?
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to race in space? How would it be different from racing on Earth?
Which character in the story would you like to be friends with and why?
How do you think teamwork helped the AstroKids in the race? Can you think of a time when teamwork helped you?
What is one new thing you learned about space from this book?
If you could design your own space race, what special rules would you include?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the exciting settings of the book. Ask them to describe what they see, hear, and feel.
Discuss the value of teamwork as portrayed in the book. Relate it to your child's experiences in school or during play.
Use the space race as a fun entry point to teach your child more about science and space. Look up more facts about space together.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. Discuss why they made that choice.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout 'About-Face Space Race,' the AstroKids must work together to navigate through space challenges, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn to collaborate with others, whether in school projects or in playing sports, understanding that collective efforts often lead to greater achievements.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving Skills
Explanation: The book challenges the characters with unexpected problems during their race, encouraging them to think critically and creatively to find solutions.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children approach challenges in their lives with a problem-solving mindset, boosting their confidence and resilience in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Respect for Diversity
Explanation: The diverse backgrounds of the AstroKids team members play a crucial role in their success, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value diverse perspectives and skills, fostering a more inclusive attitude towards classmates and friends from different cultures or backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Importance of Goal Setting
Explanation: The characters set clear goals to win the space race, teaching the importance of goal setting and determination.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to set their own goals, whether academic or personal, and understand the steps needed to achieve them, promoting a proactive approach to their ambitions.