Fer-de-Lance: Master Killer! (Fangs)
Fangs Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
The fer-de-lance, one of the largest and most poisonous snakes in the world, is a master killer with the capability to detect heat from warm-blooded animals using a special sensor on its head. This allows it to strike its prey with incredible accuracy even in complete darkness. Known for causing more human deaths than any other American reptile, the fer-de-lance uses its flickering tongue to pick up the scent of prey and facial pits to sense body heat. The book 'Fer-de-lance: Master Killer!' provides young readers with an insightful look into the natural habitat, physical characteristics, diet, and behavior of this formidable snake, enhanced with colorful photos and intriguing facts.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the Fer-de-Lance snake different from other snakes we know about?
How do you feel about the way the snake interacts with its environment?
Why do you think the author chose to focus on this particular snake?
What can we learn from the snake's behavior and survival tactics?
If you were to tell a friend about this snake, what would you say?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the snake and its characteristics, highlighting the importance of biodiversity.
Discuss the snake’s role in its ecosystem and why every creature is crucial, reinforcing environmental awareness.
Utilize the book’s illustrations to deepen understanding and spark imagination about the snake's natural habitat.
Relate the survival skills of the Fer-de-Lance to everyday challenges, drawing parallels to problem-solving and adaptation.
Ask your child to think of questions they would ask the author, fostering curiosity and active engagement with the text.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: In 'Fer-de-Lance: Master Killer! (Fangs)', the characters confront dangerous situations with bravery, illustrating how to face fears directly.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by tackling their own fears, whether it’s trying new activities, standing up in a class presentation, or sleeping alone in the dark.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The story highlights characters working together to overcome obstacles, emphasizing that teamwork can achieve goals that might be unreachable individually.
Real-World Application: Kids can use this understanding in group projects at school, sports teams, or collaborating with siblings during household chores.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and wildlife
Explanation: The book provides insights into the snake Fer-de-Lance, fostering respect and a better understanding of wildlife and its role in the ecosystem.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore more about local wildlife, participate in environmental preservation activities and learn more about biodiversity.
Example Lesson: Knowledge empowers
Explanation: The protagonists use their knowledge about the snake species to navigate challenges, showcasing that knowledge is a tool for empowerment.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to seek knowledge proactively, be it through reading, asking questions, or experiential learning, to handle daily challenges.