Build It!
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
UK metric edition. This collection of 25 fun, achievable STEM projects is the perfect way to encourage budding engineers and scientists and to show them how science applies in the real world.Using easy-to-source objects and following illustrated step-by-step instructions, design an...
Why read this book
- Encourages creativity and hands-on learning.
- Introduces basic engineering and physics concepts.
- Supports cognitive development through interactive projects.
- Ideal for parent-child collaborative playtime.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
120 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What is your favorite structure that we read about in 'Build It!' and why do you like it?
How do you think the materials mentioned in the book help in building strong structures?
Can you think of something you would like to build? What materials would you use?
How do the steps in building structures in the book compare to building something in real life?
What did you learn about teamwork from the characters in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage imaginative play by asking your child to draw or build a model of their favorite structure from the book using materials around the house.
Relate the book's themes to real-life examples by discussing buildings in your community or structures you see on outings.
Praise your child’s curiosity and insights during the discussion to boost their confidence and engagement.
Use descriptive language from the book to reinforce vocabulary and help your child make connections between the story and the real world.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving Skills
Explanation: Throughout 'Build It!', children follow the journey of building various simple machines and structures, which introduces problem-solving by encouraging them to think critically about how to create functional projects.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply these problem-solving skills in everyday life situations, such as figuring out how to fix broken toys or finding creative solutions during playtime.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: Caroline Alliston emphasizes creativity in building processes, encouraging children to use their imagination to enhance their projects or create something unique.
Real-World Application: This lesson fosters creativity in children, enabling them to dream up and execute their own ideas in arts and crafts projects or while playing games with peers.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The book details projects that involve trial and error, teaching children the importance of perseverance when faced with challenges during the construction of these projects.
Real-World Application: Children learn to keep trying in the face of difficulties, whether it be in learning a new skill, participating in sports, or handling complex school assignments.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Some projects in 'Build It!' require collaboration, showing the value of working together to achieve a common goal.
Real-World Application: This lesson is crucial for cooperative tasks at school, during team sports, or in collaborative family activities at home.
Example Lesson: Understanding Basic Engineering Principles
Explanation: The book introduces fundamental principles of mechanics and engineering, which are simplified for children’s understanding.
Real-World Application: This equips children with foundational knowledge that can spark interest in STEM subjects and enhance their analytical thinking skills.