How Was That Built?: The Stories Behind Awesome Structures
What’s inside...
Join Roma Agrawal, the acclaimed structural engineer known for her work on The Shard, as she gives a captivating behind-the-scenes tour of the world's most extraordinary architectural achievements. Delve into the groundbreaking inventions and innovations pioneered by remarkable individuals who defied conventional beliefs about construction. This detailed book, enriched with illustrations by Katie Hickey, offers insights into the engineering marvels behind iconic structures like the Brooklyn Bridge, Pantheon, Burj Khalifa, and more. A perfect read for youngsters curious about construction, architecture, and engineering, providing a compelling narrative alongside Agrawal’s adult nonfiction book.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-9
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What structure in the book fascinated you the most, and why do you think it was built that way?
How do you think the builders overcame challenges during the construction of these structures?
If you could design your own structure, what would it look like and what materials would you use?
What have you learned about teamwork from the stories of building these structures?
How do you think these structures impact the lives of people around them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage children to express their thoughts on the book's themes by asking open-ended questions. Allow them time to think about each question and express their ideas. Relate the discussion to familiar structures or buildings in your community to make the conversation more relatable. Encourage them to draw or build their version of structures using household items or toys to deepen their understanding and keep them engaged.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Problem-Solving
Explanation: This book showcases the challenges architects and engineers faced while creating iconic structures and how they persevered and solved complex problems.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach difficulties with determination and creativity, using these stories as models for tackling their own challenges, such as complex puzzles or school projects.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Different professionals working together to construct these marvelous structures emphasize the importance of teamwork and diverse skills combining to achieve a common goal.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value teamwork in group assignments at school or in sports, understanding that everyone has a unique contribution that is vital for success.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Engineering and Architecture
Explanation: By exploring the stories and science behind some of the world's most amazing constructions, this book fosters an appreciation for these disciplines.
Real-World Application: Stimulates interest in STEM fields and can inspire children to explore related activities, such as building models, drawing plans, or participating in science fairs.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The detailed explanations of how structures are built stimulate curiosity about how things work in the world around them.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to ask questions and seek out knowledge not just academically but in everyday observations, enhancing their understanding and engagement with the world.
Example Lesson: Historical and Cultural Awareness
Explanation: The book includes structures from various parts of the world and different eras, providing cultural and historical context that enriches the learning experience.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and respect different cultures and histories, potentially sparking interest in travel, languages, or global studies in their future educational choices.