Hot Air Balloons
How does it work? Series
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
Learn about the mechanics behind your favourite vehicles with these exciting books. In Hot Air Balloons, early fluent readers learn about the science, engineering, and physics behind buoyant hot air balloons. Vibrant, full-color photos and carefully leveled text engage young readers as they learn about these exciting machines.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it would feel like to ride in a hot air balloon?
Can you describe the colors and shapes you see on the hot air balloons in the book?
Why do you think people like to fly in hot air balloons?
What places would you like to visit in a hot air balloon and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts about hot air balloon rides to encourage mutual exchange of ideas.
Use descriptive language from the book to build your child’s vocabulary and engage their senses.
Discuss the science briefly - how hot air rises and carries the balloon, making it a fun and educational talk.
Ask your child to draw their imaginary hot air balloon and describe their perfect adventure in it.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The story showcases various characters working together to prepare and launch a hot air balloon. Through cooperation, they achieve their goal of a successful flight.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working with others to accomplish tasks and goals, which can be applied in group activities at school or play.
Example Lesson: Courage and Trying New Things
Explanation: The protagonist overcomes their initial fear of heights to enjoy a hot air balloon ride. This act of bravery highlights the theme of facing and overcoming personal fears.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face their own fears and try new activities, whether it’s joining a new sport, participating in a school play, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Problem-Solving
Explanation: Characters encounter challenges like unpredictable weather and equipment issues but find solutions through persistence and creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of persisting in the face of challenges and developing problem-solving skills that are essential in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: As characters soar in the hot air balloon, they observe and appreciate the beauty of the landscape below, promoting a sense of wonder about the natural world.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to explore and appreciate the natural environment around them, fostering a lifelong respect and care for nature.