Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids Early Readers STEM Edition
#4 in Spectacular Stories Early Reader Editions Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This book is filled with 17 inspiring and engaging STEM stories written specifically for young readers who are beginning chapter books. Each chapter draws children into the world of science, technology, engineering, and math, encouraging them to learn more through captivating tales of scientific inspiration, innovation, exploration, and overcoming obstacles. The stories are paired with illustrations and thought-provoking questions to engage children and parents in meaningful conversations about morals, behavior, and consequences. Written at a 2nd-grade reading level, this book is perfect for igniting curiosity and cultivating a love for learning in young readers.
Discussion points
What was your favorite experiment or invention in the story, and why?
How do you think science helps people solve problems?
If you could create an experiment, what would you want to discover or invent?
Which scientist from the book would you like to meet and what would you ask them?
How do you think teamwork played a role in the successes of the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts about a story or character to kickstart the conversation.
Encourage your child to think about how the themes in the book relate to their own experiences or future aspirations.
Ask follow-up questions that require more than a yes or no answer to deepen the discussion.
Praise your child’s responses to reinforce their engagement and confidence in expressing their thoughts.
Relate the scientific concepts to everyday life to make them more understandable and relatable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The stories in this book focus on intriguing scientific phenomena, encouraging young readers to ask questions and seek answers.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by indulging their curiosity in school projects or everyday observations, fostering a love for science and exploration.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Characters in the book face various challenges that they need to solve using basic principles of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
Real-World Application: Kids can use similar problem-solving approaches during homework, in building projects or when faced with real-world problems to find logical and creative solutions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, young readers will see characters who persist in their experiments and endeavors despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: This story’s lesson helps children understand the importance of persevering through their own challenges, whether in learning new concepts in school or in their daily activities.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The stories often involve multiple characters working together to explore or solve problems, highlighting the value of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to work cooperatively in group settings such as school projects, sports teams, or during play to achieve common goals and build interpersonal skills.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: Some tales in this edition introduce concepts of sustainability and the impact of technology on the environment.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of caring for their environment and can inspire them to participate in eco-friendly activities and practices at home and in community.