on Goodreads (24)
What’s inside...
Part of the 'Kingfisher Young Knowledge' series, this book provides an introduction to the world of robots. It covers a range of topics from simple robots to those operating complex machinery in various fields such as factories, hospitals, and space missions, as well as the latest intelligent robots and cyborgs. The book explores the complete spectrum of robotics, from historical sketches by pioneers like Leonardo da Vinci to modern-day humanoid robots. It explains how robots work and details their applications in industry, medicine, space, and home. Featuring lively text, detailed illustrations, and interactive elements like flashing lights, pop-up nanobots, and movable robot parts, the book also includes information on robot toys and robots in fantasy and film.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes a robot different from a human?
If you could design your own robot, what tasks would you want it to do?
How do you think robots might help people in the future?
What feelings did you experience when reading about the different robots?
Why do you think it's important for humans to understand and create robots?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine the limitless possibilities of robotic technology, fostering their creativity and problem-solving skills. Use comparisons between human capabilities and robotic functions to enhance their understanding of artificial intelligence. Discuss the ethical implications and responsibilities that come with technological advancements to deepen their critical thinking about the role of technology in society.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The story demonstrates how robots work together to build and solve problems, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together in groups during school projects or in play, learning to value each other's input and cooperate to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: The book showcases various robots, each designed uniquely to perform specific tasks, highlighting the limitless possibilities of creativity and engineering.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination and creativity in daily tasks and problem-solving, showing them that innovative thinking can lead to practical and fun solutions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Learning from Mistakes
Explanation: As robots attempt different tasks, they sometimes fail and learn from their errors, teaching resilience and the value of learning from mistakes.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that making mistakes is a part of learning and that each error provides a new opportunity for growth and understanding.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Robots in the book often adjust their methods and strategies in response to new challenges, demonstrating the skill of adaptability.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of adapting to different situations, whether adjusting to changes in school, moving to a new environment, or learning new rules in a game.
Example Lesson: Respect for Technology
Explanation: The book instills a sense of awe and respect for what technology can accomplish, while also showing the ethical use of technology.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to respect and responsibly use technology, understanding its potential impacts and benefits in their daily lives and the environment.