School
Busy places Series
What’s inside...
This series explores familiar busy places, using specially commissioned photographs and simple text to explain the activities and roles of people during a busy day at the location.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-10
Length
123 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the school day in the book, and why?
How do you think the characters felt on their first day at school?
What are some ways you can help a new friend feel welcome at school?
Which activities at school do you find exciting and why?
How would you help solve a problem you saw in the book at your own school?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about school by relating it to their own experiences. Listen attentively and validate their feelings. Use the book as a tool to discuss overcoming fears and making friends. Highlight the positive aspects of learning and collaboration, mirroring the book's themes. Finally, incorporate role-playing games based on scenarios from the book to deepen understanding and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity
Explanation: The book 'School' by Carol Watson showcases a variety of school environments and peer groups, illustrating how schools can differ globally.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate and respect differences among their classmates and peers, promoting inclusiveness in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of education
Explanation: Through different scenarios, the book emphasizes how education is crucial in every child’s life, irrespective of their background.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by staying curious, valuing their education, and recognizing opportunities to learn both in and out of school.
Example Lesson: Social skills development
Explanation: Various interactions between characters in the book demonstrate effective communication and collaboration among students.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of teamwork and communication, skills they can practice during group activities or school projects.
Example Lesson: Resolving conflicts
Explanation: The book portrays conflicts that arise in school settings and how they are resolved, teaching problem-solving in social settings.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to apply peaceful conflict resolution strategies in real-life disagreements with peers.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: The transitions between different classes and activities in the book reflect how students adapt to changing environments and schedules.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the skill of adaptability, allowing them to adjust more easily to changes in their own school day or routine.