Olivia's Tower: The Building Power of Cells
What’s inside...
Olivia's Tower: The Building Power of Cells, written by Gretchen Day, is a captivating exploration of cellular biology, illustrating the integral role of cells in constructing the human body. The book guides readers through the intricate processes by which cells cooperate to create tissues, organs, and a complete human being. Through engaging storytelling and clear explanations, Day demystifies the microscopic world of cells, making the subject approachable and fascinating for readers of all ages. The book combines scientific exploration with a narrative about a character named Olivia, who embarks on a scientific journey to understand how everything is built, likening it to blocks in a tower. By observing cells under a microscope, Olivia learns about the scientific process and the wonders of cellular biology, attempting to find answers to her questions.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think cells look like, and why are they important for building living things?
How did Olivia use her knowledge about cells to solve problems in the story?
If you could create something using cells, what would it be and why?
What did you learn about teamwork and collaboration from Olivia's experiences?
How does the tower in the story relate to how cells work together in our bodies?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to draw their own version of a cell tower or any structure using cells, discussing the parts and functions as they design.
Relate the story to real-world biology by comparing the tower building in the book to human body systems.
Ask your child to explain their favorite part of the book and what they found most interesting about cells.
Use household items to create simple models of cells, discussing each component’s role, to make the concept more tangible.
Discuss the moral lessons in the book, such as perseverance and creativity, and how your child can apply these lessons in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Olivia's Tower: The Building Power of Cells,' Olivia learns the importance of teamwork as she collaborates with various cell characters to build her tower. Each cell contributes uniquely, emphasizing that cooperation is vital to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in group activities at school or play, learning to value each participant’s contribution, promoting harmonious interactions and collective success.
Example Lesson: Understanding Basic Biology
Explanation: The story introduces children to the fundamentals of cells and their functions as Olivia interacts with different cell types during her tower building adventure. This educational narrative makes biology accessible and engaging.
Real-World Application: Children can better grasp elementary science concepts at school, sparking a curiosity for learning more about how living organisms function and are structured.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Olivia faces numerous challenges in building her tower. Her persistence and problem-solving skills are key to overcoming these hurdles, teaching children the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital for children when they encounter difficulties in learning new skills or completing tasks, helping them understand that persisting and finding solutions is the way to success.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: Olivia uses her imagination to design the tower, and creative thinking to solve problems that arise. This encourages children to see creativity as a tool for innovation and effective problem-solving.
Real-World Application: In everyday life, children can harness creativity to express themselves and think outside the box, whether in artistic activities or in devising unique solutions to their own challenges.
Example Lesson: Valuing Diversity and Individuality
Explanation: The story shows how different cells with unique functions can work together effectively. This diversity in their abilities is crucial to the tower's success, mirroring the importance of accepting and valuing individual differences.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and embrace differences among their peers, understanding that everyone has unique traits that contribute positively to group dynamics and achievements.