Sapphires (Gems: Nature's Jewels)
Gems, Nature'S Jewels Series
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
Learn about the gem called a sapphire. This book explores different types of sapphires including blue sapphires, clear sapphires, 'fancy sapphires,' and star sapphires. It features colorful photographs to showcase the beauty of these valuable gems. The book also discusses where most sapphires come from and the value of the most expensive sapphire, answering many questions about this fascinating gemstone.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think sapphires are considered valuable?
What are some of the different uses for sapphires that you learned from the book?
How do sapphires form in nature, and what makes them unique?
Can you think of any other gems? How are they similar or different from sapphires?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing what you find fascinating about sapphires to spark your child’s interest.
Encourage your child to describe the colors and shapes of sapphires depicted in the book, enhancing their observation and articulation skills.
Relate the formation process of sapphires to other natural processes they know about, like how rain is formed, to help them connect the dots.
After reading, you might explore together more detailed images or videos online of sapphires and other gems to enhance their understanding and curiosity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding nature's diversity
Explanation: The book explores the different types of sapphires and their geological formations.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect the variety found in nature, promoting environmental awareness.
Example Lesson: The value of rare materials
Explanation: Through vivid descriptions, the book highlights why sapphires are considered precious.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of valuing scarce resources, which can be applied to everyday conservation efforts.
Example Lesson: The science behind gem formation
Explanation: ‘Sapphires (Gems: Nature’s Jewels)’ delves into the scientific processes that create sapphires.
Real-World Application: Encourages curiosity about earth science and can ignite an interest in scientific exploration.
Example Lesson: Cultural significance of gems
Explanation: The book touches on how different cultures value sapphires.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand and respect cultural diversity and the varying significance of objects around the world.
Example Lesson: Patience and perseverance
Explanation: Mining and discovering sapphires is depicted as a meticulous and demanding process.
Real-World Application: Inculcates virtues of patience and diligence, as these are essential traits for achieving long-term goals.