The Magic School Bus Explores the Senses
#10 of 13 in Magic School Bus Series
on Goodreads (1,294)
What’s inside...
Ms. Frizzle's class is learning about the senses and they take a magical field trip to discover first-hand. This book educates children about the human body's five senses in an easy-to-understand way. To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Scholastic is re-releasing the ten original Magic School Bus titles in paperback. With updated scientific information, the bestselling science series ever is back! On a most sense-sational trip that takes them through an eye, an ear, a tongue, and even a dog's nose, Ms. Frizzle's class learns about the senses. Using their trademark sense of humor, Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen provide facts about the senses in both the human and animal worlds.
Discussion points
How do the different senses help Ms. Frizzle and the class on their adventures?
What was one new thing you learned about the senses from this book?
Why do you think it's important to have all five senses?
Can you imagine a new adventure where the Magic School Bus explores something we didn't see in the book?
Which part of the book was the most surprising or exciting for you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Gauge understanding by asking your child to explain each of the five senses in their own words.
Relate the content to your child's experiences by discussing how they use their senses daily.
Encourage creativity by asking your child to draw or describe a new Magic School Bus adventure based on a sense of their choice.
Promote making connections by discussing how the senses work together, using examples from the book and real life.
Foster empathy and perspective-taking by asking questions like, 'How do you think the characters felt when they learned about their senses?'.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Exploration of the Five Senses
Explanation: The book takes children on an adventurous trip with Ms. Frizzle and her class, where they explore the five senses. Through interactive scenarios, they examine how each sense works.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be more aware of their surroundings and understand the function of each sense in daily life, fostering a deeper appreciation and curiosity about human biology.
Example Lesson: Importance of Observation and Inquiry
Explanation: The students in Ms. Frizzle’s class ask questions and observe the effects of sensory inputs, demonstrating scientific inquiry.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and observe the world around them, which is fundamental in science education and critical thinking.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the book, the students work together to navigate their sensory explorations, highlighting the value of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of collaboration and supporting each other’s learning experiences, applicable in school projects and other group activities.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The class encounters various challenges on their journey which they must solve by applying their knowledge about the senses.
Real-World Application: Promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills, important both in academic contexts and in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Diversity
Explanation: The book subtly teaches that each student perceives the world differently through their senses, emphasizing individual differences.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand and respect that everyone experiences the world in unique ways, fostering empathy and social awareness.