Communism
Ideas of the modern world Series
on Goodreads (3)
What’s inside...
Discusses the development of communism, surveys the Russian and Chinese Revolutions and the Cold War, recounts the fall of European Communist governments and conditions in post-Communist countries, and profiles leading figures.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think communism means based on what we read?
How do you think people's lives are different under a communist government?
Why do you think some countries choose communism?
Can you think of any advantages or disadvantages of living in a communist society?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, provide a simple definition of communism to ensure your child has a basic understanding.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s everyday experiences, such as sharing toys or taking turns, to make the concept more relatable.
Encourage your child to ask questions and express their thoughts freely, validating their opinions and fostering an open dialogue.
Use examples from the book to highlight points during your discussion, making the topic more concrete and understandable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Equality and Fair Share
Explanation: The book introduces children to the concept of everyone contributing according to their ability and receiving according to their needs, showcasing a society where resources are distributed equally.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to share resources fairly with siblings and classmates, encouraging a sense of community and teamwork.
Example Lesson: Value of Cooperation
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of working together towards a common goal, illustrating how a community thrives when individuals support each other’s well-being.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in group activities at school or sports teams where cooperation is essential for success, teaching the child the importance of teamwork.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking about Economic Systems
Explanation: Through the exploration of different economic theories, the book encourages young readers to think critically about how societies organize their economic systems and the impact of those systems on people's lives.
Real-World Application: Children can use this knowledge to better understand the various community helper roles in society and appreciate the interdependence of different professions.
Example Lesson: Respect for Diverse Perspectives
Explanation: By presenting a range of ideologies, the book teaches respect for diverse perspectives and encourages dialogue about societal values.
Real-World Application: This can be mirrored in a child’s everyday interactions, promoting an open-minded approach to learning from classmates and teachers from diverse backgrounds.
Example Lesson: History’s Impact on Present
Explanation: The narrative connects historical events to contemporary issues, helping children see the influence of the past on current societal structures.
Real-World Application: Kids can analyze how historical events shape their everyday lives and understand the importance of history in shaping our present and future decisions.