Fly!: A Brief History of Flight Illustrated
#3 of 3 in Willa Perlman Books Series
What’s inside...
Highlights sixteen episodes in the development of aviation ranging from balloons to the space shuttle. Also includes a time line and historical notes.
Discussion points
What do you think it felt like for the first person who ever flew in a plane?
How have airplanes changed the way we explore the world?
Can you think of any other inventions that have changed the world like airplanes have?
Why do you think people wanted to learn how to fly?
What do you imagine could be the next big invention in flight?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own experiences or dreams about flying, which can help your child relate the topic to their own life.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of an airplane or their own imagined flying machine, using details from the book to fuel their creativity.
Use a globe or a map to discuss distances between different places and how flight has made it easier to travel these distances.
Ask your child to explain how they think an airplane works, fostering a deeper understanding and curiosity about mechanics and engineering.
Discuss the historical figures mentioned in the book and their impact on aviation, to help your child understand the human side of technological advancements.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and determination
Explanation: The book illustrates the various experiments and failures experienced by early aviators as they worked toward achieving flight, demonstrating how perseverance led to eventual success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persisting through difficulties and setbacks, applicable in solving complex school assignments or mastering new skills in sports or arts.
Example Lesson: Innovation and creativity
Explanation: The story showcases different inventors who thought outside the box and used unique materials and designs to build their flying machines.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be inventive and creative in their daily activities and problem-solving, whether building a unique art project or finding new ways to tackle tasks.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The development of flight was not accomplished by a single individual but through the collaborative efforts of many inventors and scientists.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of working together with others to achieve common goals, applicable in group projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Learning from history
Explanation: The book covers historical milestones in aviation, showing how past achievements and failures contribute to present knowledge and technology.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate history and understand its impact on the present and future, helping them value lessons taught in school or from family stories.