Is A Blue Whale the Biggest Thing There Is?
Wells Of Knowledge Science Series
on Goodreads (804)
What’s inside...
Each of the 'Wonderwise' series explores a particular area of learning with a simple narrative text and illustrations. The differentiated text gently introduces readers to some of the methods of extracting information from a non-fiction book. In this specific book, readers discover various big things, some bigger things, and the thing beyond measure--what can truly be called the Biggest Thing There Is!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it feels like to be as big as a blue whale?
Can you imagine something even bigger than the universe mentioned in the book?
Why do you think understanding the size of different things is important?
How do you think the blue whale got to be so big?
What have you learned about other big things in the world from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use comparative objects from your child’s environment to help them grasp the scale of things discussed in the book, like comparing the size of a blue whale to a school bus.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of a blue whale and something else they consider big to visually comprehend the size difference.
Ask open-ended questions that do not have a right or wrong answer to encourage critical thinking and personal interpretation.
Relate the sizes discussed in the book to things your child knows and interacts with daily to make the concepts more tangible.
Aim for an interactive reading session by pausing at different points in the book to discuss the illustrations and how they help us understand the enormity of things.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Scale and Size
Explanation: The book uses the blue whale as a starting point to explore different sizes and scales in the universe, effectively showing the relationship between various objects.
Real-World Application: This concept helps children grasp the idea of size and measurement, enabling them to better understand and navigate the world around them.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Nature and Science
Explanation: By exploring natural phenomena and celestial bodies, the book fosters a curiosity about the natural world and the science behind it.
Real-World Application: Children can develop an interest in scientific exploration and environmental conservation from an early age, encouraging them to learn more about the world and how they can protect it.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Comparison
Explanation: The book challenges children to compare different sizes, encouraging them to think critically and analytically.
Real-World Application: This skill is crucial in daily decision making and problem solving, helping children develop into thoughtful and effective thinkers.