Ancient Rome and Pompeii: A Nonfiction Companion to Magic Tree House #13: Vacation Under the Volcano
Magic tree house fact tracker Series
What’s inside...
Magic Tree House Research Guides are now Magic Tree House Fact Trackers! Track the facts with Jack and Annie! When Jack and Annie got back from their adventure in Magic Tree House #13: Vacation Under the Volcano, they had lots of questions about ancient Rome, including how it became an empire, where Romans went for fun, what happened to the town of Pompeii, and what we have learned from it. Filled with up-to-date information, photos, illustrations, and fun tidbits from Jack and Annie, the Magic Tree House Fact Trackers provide the perfect way for kids to learn more about the topics they discovered in their favorite Magic Tree House adventures. The series, celebrating 25 years, offers books that serve as nonfiction companions to the fiction stories, making them useful for teachers to meet common core text pairing needs.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think everyday life was like for children in ancient Rome compared to your life today?
How do you think the people of Pompeii felt during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius?
What are some similarities and differences you noticed between the ancient Roman culture and our culture?
Why do you think it’s important to learn about ancient civilizations like Rome and Pompeii?
If you could ask a resident of ancient Pompeii one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in ancient Rome or Pompeii, asking them to describe a day in their life there.
Discuss the importance of historical events and how they shape our understanding of the past, linking it to the book's portrayal of Pompeii.
Use the book to spark conversations about the value of archeology and preservation of historical sites.
Encourage critical thinking by discussing how the information in the book is gathered and interpreted by historians and archeologists.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of history and culture
Explanation: The book explores the historical and cultural aspects of Ancient Rome and Pompeii, providing children with a detailed insight into their significance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by developing a deeper appreciation for different cultures and historical events, fostering a sense of curiosity and respect for the past.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity and learning
Explanation: As the characters explore Pompeii and learn about its history, the book highlights the importance of asking questions and seeking knowledge.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to stay curious in their everyday life, enhancing their educational experiences and promoting lifelong learning.
Example Lesson: Understanding natural disasters
Explanation: The book discusses the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and its impact on Pompeii, teaching children about volcanic eruptions and other natural disasters.
Real-World Application: Children can learn about the causes and effects of natural disasters, promoting awareness and encouraging preparedness for emergency situations.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters' experiences in dealing with the challenges posed by the eruption showcase resilience and the ability to adapt in difficult situations.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of resilience which can be applied by staying positive and adaptive during challenging times in their own lives.