Building Bridges
Young engineers Series
on Goodreads (11)
What’s inside...
Uses engaging nonfiction text and hands-on projects to help young readers explore real-life bridge engineering projects, including the science behind how these structures are planned and built.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes a bridge strong?
How do the bridges in the book help the community?
Can you think of any other uses for a bridge besides getting from one place to another?
If you could design your own bridge, what would it look like and where would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to describe their favorite bridge from the book and why it stood out to them.
Encourage your child to draw their own bridge design after reading the book, discussing the features that would make it strong and useful.
While reading, pause on pages with different types of bridges and discuss how each might be suited for its environment.
Connect the story to real life by discussing any bridges you both are familiar with and their importance to your community.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Building Bridges,' children learn the importance of teamwork as characters collaborate to construct a bridge, overcoming obstacles together.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together with peers on group projects or in team sports, learning to value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The book demonstrates the process of identifying problems and brainstorming creative solutions when challenges arise during the bridge building.
Real-World Application: This skill is transferable to academic challenges or personal conflicts, encouraging children to think critically and find solutions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Characters in the story face setbacks while constructing the bridge, yet they persist until they reach their goal, illustrating the value of determination.
Real-World Application: Kids can mirror this resilience by continuing to try in the face of difficulties, whether it's mastering a new skill or completing complex tasks.
Example Lesson: Engineering and Science Fundamentals
Explanation: Through the bridge-building process, the book introduces basic principles of engineering and physics, making these subjects accessible and fun.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps cultivate a child’s curiosity about how things work and can be the foundation for future scientific learning and exploration.