National Geographic Readers: Mummies
National Geographic readers. Level 2 Series
on Goodreads (176)
What’s inside...
National Geographic Readers: Mummies by Elizabeth Carney is an educational children's book that explores the ancient practice of mummification. The book is designed for young readers and offers an in-depth look at how and why various cultures, particularly the ancient Egyptians, preserved their dead. It includes engaging photographs, easy-to-understand text, and covers topics such as the mummification process, religious beliefs, and what modern science has learned from mummies. The book also features famous mummies like King Tutankhamun and includes fun facts to engage children's curiosity. It serves as a valuable resource for children interested in history and archaeology.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you find most fascinating about how mummies were made?
Why do you think people in ancient cultures made mummies?
What similarities and differences can you see between their beliefs about life after death and our beliefs today?
How do you think archaeologists feel when they discover a new mummy?
If you could ask a mummy one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing what you personally find intriguing about ancient civilizations or discuss a related documentary or show you have watched together.
Encourage critical thinking by posing hypothetical scenarios such as 'What would our world be like if mummification was still a common practice today?'
To make connections to the content, encourage your child to draw or create a map of ancient Egypt and mark places where mummies have been found.
Explore together more resources or books related to the topics discussed to sustain interest and learning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: History and Culture Awareness
Explanation: This book showcases the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian mummies, providing young readers with a window into historical practices and beliefs.
Real-World Application: Children can develop respect and curiosity about different cultures and historical timelines, understanding that society has evolved in many ways over time.
Example Lesson: Scientific Inquiry
Explanation: The process of mummification is explained using simple scientific terms, demonstrating how the Egyptians preserved bodies.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore science and ask questions about how and why certain outcomes occur in nature and technology.
Example Lesson: Importance of Preservation
Explanation: The book details the efforts made to preserve not only the physical bodies but also the cultural significance of mummies.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of preserving important historical and personal artefacts, fostering an appreciation for conserving their own and others' heritage.