MH-53E Sea Dragons (Torque Books: Military Machines)
Military Machines Series
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
The Sea Dragon is the largest and heaviest helicopter in the United States military. It can transport troops and haul cargo. It is also used to detect and blow up mines in dangerous waters. Read about the history of the Sea Dragon, the tools it uses to detect mines, and its role in keeping our waters safe.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to fly a MH-53E Sea Dragon?
Why do you think military machines like the Sea Dragon are important?
Can you describe how the Sea Dragon helps during missions?
What have you learned about teamwork from reading about the Sea Dragon crew?
Tip: Role play these questions
To engage your child in a meaningful discussion, start by asking open-ended questions that encourage them to think and express themselves. You can share your own perceptions or a brief story related to helicopters or teamwork to make the conversation more relatable. Encourage your child to ask questions and express curiosity. It helps to connect the themes of the book with real-world applications or current events.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding teamwork
Explanation: The book illustrates how crew members on the MH-53E Sea Dragon work together to accomplish missions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply the concept of teamwork in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and achieve common goals with peers.
Example Lesson: Importance of responsibility
Explanation: Crew members in the book demonstrate a high level of responsibility, managing complex machinery and tasks.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of being responsible in their own tasks, such as homework or chores, understanding their impact on the overall family or team.
Example Lesson: Interest in technology and mechanics
Explanation: The book details the technical aspects of the MH-53E Sea Dragon, sparking curiosity about how things work.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects, fostering a deeper understanding and potential career interests in these fields.
Example Lesson: Learning about bravery and courage
Explanation: The missions depicted in the book often require bravery, as the crew faces challenging situations.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of courage in overcoming difficulties, whether in standing up for themselves or others, or in facing their own personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for military roles
Explanation: Through the exploration of the MH-53E Sea Dragon's contributions, readers gain an appreciation for military service and its complexities.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand and respect the various roles people play in society, promoting a diversely functional community.