Take-off! Lives and Times: Florence Nightingale
Take-off!. Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This series narrates the lives of famous individuals while providing evidence about their exploits and accomplishments. The books are ideal for shared reading during the Literacy Hour. A simple introduction to the life and work of Florence Nightingale, the nineteenth-century English woman considered to be the founder of modern nursing.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-11
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Florence Nightingale wanted to become a nurse, and how did she change the way people thought about nursing?
What obstacles did Florence face, and how did she overcome them?
How did the changes Florence made impact the soldiers and the hospital?
What qualities do you admire most about Florence Nightingale, and why?
If you could ask Florence Nightingale one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by asking your child what they already know about Florence Nightingale or nursing in general to assess their prior knowledge.
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, such as a time they helped someone or faced a challenge.
Discuss the historical context of the book by explaining the significance of the era in which Florence lived and how it influenced her actions and choices.
Highlight Florence Nightingale’s character traits like perseverance, compassion, and innovation to help your child understand her achievements.
After your discussion, encourage your child to draw a picture or write a short paragraph about what they found most inspiring about Florence Nightingale’s story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion and Dedication
Explanation: The book portrays Florence Nightingale's unwavering compassion and dedication to nursing, demonstrating her commitment to caring for the sick and wounded soldiers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of showing compassion and dedication in caring for others, whether it be helping a friend in need or assisting family members.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Florence Nightingale faced numerous challenges and opposition when she chose to become a nurse, a profession that was not highly regarded at her time. Her determination is highlighted throughout the book.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persevere through their own challenges, whether in school or in their personal lives, understanding that obstacles can be overcome with persistence.
Example Lesson: Importance of Education and Self-Improvement
Explanation: The story emphasizes Nightingale's commitment to educating herself in nursing and public health, which were crucial to her success and reforms in healthcare.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to value and pursue education and continual self-improvement in any area of interest.
Example Lesson: Making a Difference
Explanation: Florence Nightingale's efforts in nursing not only improved conditions in war hospitals but also brought lasting changes to the healthcare system. Her impacts are discussed in the book.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to think about how they can contribute positively to their community and make a difference in the lives of others.
Example Lesson: Leadership and Vision
Explanation: Nightingale's leadership and clear vision for health care reform are central to the narrative, showing how one person's strong leadership can effect change.
Real-World Application: Children can learn about the importance of leadership and having a vision, encouraging them to develop these qualities in group projects or community involvement.