Sir Francis Drake: His Daring Deeds
on Goodreads (37)
What’s inside...
Retells in poetry the daring adventures of the explorer who was the first Englishman to sail around the world; helped to defeat the Spanish Armada; and who, encouraged by Queen Elizabeth I, was a feared pirate in his time.
Age
7-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Sir Francis Drake
Francis Drake
Elizabeth I Of England
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Sir Francis Drake to go on his adventures?
How do you think Drake's crew felt during their voyages around the world?
What qualities do you admire in Sir Francis Drake, and why?
How would you handle the challenges that Sir Francis Drake faced?
If you could ask Sir Francis Drake one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Sir Francis Drake's shoes, which can lead to a deeper understanding of the historical context and the decisions he made.
Discuss the concept of exploration and its risks and rewards. This can help children understand the courage and curiosity needed to explore unknown territories.
Highlight Sir Francis Drake's leadership qualities and ask your child to think of ways they can be leaders in their own lives.
Utilize maps or globes to trace Drake's voyages, making the discussion both visual and interactive.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Sir Francis Drake exhibits bravery as he embarks on daring voyages, facing challenges head-on.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges courageously, whether it's trying out for a sports team, or speaking up in class.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and determination
Explanation: Drake's persistence in his explorations, despite setbacks, demonstrates the importance of not giving up.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist in their own goals, like mastering a new skill or completing a difficult school project.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge
Explanation: The story showcases Drake's curiosity about the world, leading him to discover new lands.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious, ask questions, and explore new topics and ideas in their learning.
Example Lesson: Impact of leadership and responsibility
Explanation: Sir Francis Drake's role as a leader in his voyages highlights the effects of good leadership and taking responsibility for one's actions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take responsibility in group activities and understand the importance of strong leadership in team settings.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity and other cultures
Explanation: Throughout his travels, Drake encounters various cultures, illustrating the value of respect and understanding across differences.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to appreciate and respect people from different backgrounds and cultures in their own communities.