Houses and Homes
Local History Detective S. Series
What’s inside...
This is where the summary of the book 'Houses and Homes' by Bowyer would go, highlighting the main themes, topics, and conclusions drawn in the book. It would provide a brief overview of the content, including the types of houses and homes discussed, their historical and cultural significance, architectural styles, and any other key points that the author aims to convey to the reader. The book also includes beautifully illustrated guides to the world we live in, with up-to-date maps, charts and diagrams.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What makes a house a home for you?
Can you describe how different the homes in the book are from our own?
What would you feel if you had to live in one of the homes from the book?
How do you think the climate affects the types of homes people build?
Why is it important for everyone to have a home?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a world map to locate the countries mentioned in the book, making it a visual and interactive experience.
Encourage your child to draw their ideal home and describe what unique elements it would have, linking back to the styles seen in the book.
While discussing, relate the content back to your child’s experiences by comparing your own home with those in the book.
Ask your child to think about what materials they would use to build a home and why, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental influences on architecture.
Promote empathy by discussing the importance of housing and what it might feel like for families who don't have stable homes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation and diversity
Explanation: Through exploring different types of houses around the world, 'Houses and Homes' teaches children about the various cultures and the diverse ways people live.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences in their everyday interactions with peers from diverse backgrounds, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: The book shows how different homes are adapted to their environments, which introduces children to the concept of sustainable living and how homes can complement their natural surroundings.
Real-World Application: Kids can become more conscious of their environment and learn ways to help conserve it, such as recycling or saving water at home.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: By seeing how others live, children can develop empathy for different life situations and understand that not everyone lives in the same way or has the same resources.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to be more compassionate and supportive towards their friends and classmates who may come from varied socio-economic backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Importance of home
Explanation: The book illustrates that regardless of shape, size, or location, every house is a home because of the people who live there and the love they share.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value and cherish their home environment, recognizing it as a safe and special place filled with love.