Avoid Being Sir Isaac Newton! (Danger Zone)
The danger zone Series
on Goodreads (48)
What’s inside...
Sir Isaac Newton was one of the most famous and influential scientists of his age, and is often considered the greatest scientist of any age. He discovered the laws of nature that revolutionized science and technology. Despite his remarkable achievements, Newton's obsessions, quarrels, loneliness, and secrets made him deeply unhappy. This title explores the complexities of Newton's life and why being him might not have been as desirable as it seems. In 17th-century England, during a scientific revolution, Newton stood out as a secretive and obsessive man with few friends, whose work forever changed the way we view the world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-11
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Sir Isaac Newton to explore science and make his discoveries?
How do you think Newton's discoveries changed the way people understood the world around them?
If you could meet Sir Isaac Newton, what questions would you ask him?
How do Newton’s laws of motion affect our daily lives today?
What challenges do you think Newton faced during his experiments and how did he overcome them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the historical context of Newton's life and how his work was revolutionary for his time.
Discuss the importance of curiosity and perseverance in science, drawing parallels to challenges in the child's own life.
Use examples from the book to explain Newton’s laws of motion, and relate them to real-world scenarios to make the concepts more relatable.
Highlight the theme of curiosity and its role in scientific discovery to inspire your child’s own explorations.
Engage in a creative activity, such as building simple machines or conducting basic experiments, to deepen understanding and appreciation of Newton’s contributions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Inquisitiveness
Explanation: The book portrays Sir Isaac Newton's relentless pursuit of knowledge, showcasing his curiosity about the natural world.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to ask questions and explore their surroundings, fostering a lifelong love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Persistence in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: Newton faced numerous obstacles during his scientific endeavors, but he never gave up, which the book highlights effectively.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of persistence and resilience, understanding that challenges are opportunities for growth and should not deter them from their goals.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Explanation: The book illustrates how Newton used his analytical skills to solve problems and come up with theories that changed our understanding of the world.
Real-World Application: Children can apply critical thinking to their daily challenges, enhancing their problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities.
Example Lesson: Value of Education
Explanation: The story demonstrates how Newton's education played a crucial role in his discoveries and innovations.
Real-World Application: This underscores the importance of education and encourages children to value and take advantage of their learning opportunities.
Example Lesson: Impact of Individual Contributions on Society
Explanation: Newton's work greatly contributed to science and society, a theme explored in the book.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to see how their actions and contributions, no matter how small, can have a positive impact on the world around them.