I Wish I Knew That: Cool Stuff You Need to Know (Buster Reference)
#1 in I Wish I Knew That Series
What’s inside...
Perfect for any child who wants to stay one step ahead of their classmates, this fantastic book is packed with informative titbits that will fascinate and enthrall young minds. I Wish I Knew That is full of interesting stuff that parents and grandparents used to learn at school that every child ought to know today. From classic books children should read, a quick grammar guide, an introduction to foreign languages, who that Pythagoras chap was, to a look at all the kings and queens, countries and their capitals, an introduction to classics and much more, it covers all subjects.
Discussion points
What was one new thing you learned from this book that excited you?
How do you think knowing this cool stuff will help you in school or in everyday life?
If you could add a chapter to the book, what topic would you choose and why?
Which fact did you find the most surprising, and why did it stand out to you?
How do you think knowledge changes the way we see the world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the facts from the book to their daily experiences, which aids in retention and makes learning meaningful. After discussing each question, share a related fact or story from your own knowledge to make the conversation two-sided and engaging. To foster a deeper connection, finish your reading sessions by brainstorming fun ways to explore more about a topic they were particularly interested in.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity
Explanation: The book encourages children to explore a wide range of topics from science to history, emphasizing the joy of learning something new.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by asking questions about the world around them and seeking out answers through books, experiments, or discussions with adults.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking skills
Explanation: Steve Martin presents information in a way that prompts readers to think critically about various subjects, encouraging them to not just accept facts but to understand the reasoning behind them.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in daily life by encouraging children to analyze information they receive from the media or school, promoting a deeper understanding and the ability to distinguish between opinion and fact.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for diverse subjects
Explanation: The book covers a vast array of knowledge areas, allowing children to discover new interests and develop an appreciation for different fields of study.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by exploring different hobbies and academic subjects to find what truly ignites their passion, leading to a more well-rounded education.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical context
Explanation: By presenting events and figures in their historical context, the book helps children see the connections between past and present.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in understanding the importance of history in shaping our current society and can also promote empathy and tolerance as they learn about different cultures and viewpoints.
Example Lesson: Value of knowledge sharing
Explanation: The engaging tone and accessible explanations encourage children to share what they learn with family and friends, fostering an environment of collective learning.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by discussing interesting facts or stories they have read with peers or family members, which not only reinforces their learning but also enhances their communication skills.