The Hindenburg Disaster
Black sheep: disaster stories Series
What’s inside...
Describes the events of the Hindenburg airship disaster. Written in graphic-novel format.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the passengers felt during the Hindenburg disaster?
What are some ways that technology has improved since the time of the Hindenburg?
Why is it important to remember and learn about historical events like this?
If you were a journalist during that time, what kind of questions would you ask?
How can we use lessons from the past to improve safety and technology today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine being in the different roles depicted in the book, from passengers to crew members, which can help them understand various perspectives. Discuss the historical context of the event before diving into the book, giving a clear picture of the world during that era. Use the illustrations and photos in the book to visualize the event and spark deeper discussion. Relate the technological advancements since then to devices and machines your child uses today. After discussing, try a creative activity like drawing what they think a modern-day airship would look like, incorporating safety features discussed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of safety measures
Explanation: The book illustrates the catastrophic event of the Hindenburg disaster, emphasizing how critical safety protocols and measures are.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and follow safety rules in daily activities, understanding their role in preventing accidents.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking under pressure
Explanation: The narrative details how the crew and passengers had to react quickly during the disaster, showcasing the necessity of thinking clearly under stressful conditions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of staying calm and making informed decisions during emergencies, whether at school or home.
Example Lesson: Historical awareness and learning from past mistakes
Explanation: By exploring the causes and consequences of the Hindenburg disaster, the book highlights how history can offer valuable lessons.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by understanding their history lessons not just as facts, but as a guide to avoid repeating past mistakes in any aspect of life.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: The book portrays the human side of the disaster, focusing on the experiences of the affected individuals.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to empathize with others' feelings and situations, fostering a kinder and more understanding approach to people around them.
Example Lesson: The impact of technology and innovation
Explanation: The Hindenburg was a marvel of its time, and the book covers how technological advancements can sometimes lead to unforeseen consequences.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate the role of innovation in shaping societies while understanding the importance of cautious implementation.