The Magic School Bus Gets Ants in Its Pants
#4 in Magic School Bus TV Tie-Ins Series
What’s inside...
Ms. Frizzle's class studies ants and embarks on a journey inside an anthill using the Magic School Bus in 'The Magic School Bus Gets Ants in Its Pants.' They learn about the collaborative nature of ants in sustaining their colony and caring for their queen. The book includes materials to start an ant farm. In another adventure, Keesha directs a movie about social animals and observes ants firsthand by entering an anthill for the school science fair. Ms. Frizzle and friends also embark on a quest to locate a star, exploring the cooperative behaviors of animal social groups. Both stories are vibrant and educational explorations of animal teamwork.
Character compass
Wanda Li
Ms. Valerie Frizzle
Discussion points
Why do you think the ants behaved the way they did on the Magic School Bus?
What would you do if you were on an adventure with Ms. Frizzle and her class?
How do the ants help each other, and what can we learn from them about teamwork?
What was the most surprising thing you learned about ants from this book?
If you could ask the ants one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by asking them how they work together with their friends or classmates like the ants do.
Prompt your child to think critically by asking what they would do differently if they were characters in the book.
Discuss the scientific facts presented in the book and ask your child what they found most interesting or unexpected about ants.
Use the illustrations in the book to ask your child descriptive questions, enhancing their observation and language skills.
After reading, engage in a creative activity like drawing your own Magic School Bus adventure or creating an ant farm with recycled materials to deepen understanding and retention of the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the book, students on the Magic School Bus work together to solve problems and build an ant farm, showcasing effective teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these skills in school projects or in team sports where cooperation is key to success.
Example Lesson: Importance of Observation and Inquiry
Explanation: The students ask questions and make observations about the ants' behavior, learning directly from their environment.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious about the natural world and to seek knowledge through observation and questioning in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Care for Animals
Explanation: The book illustrates the responsibility involved in caring for another living being, as the students must ensure the ants’ habitat is suitable.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of being responsible and considerate towards pets and other animals in their care.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: When challenges arise with the ant farm, the students must think critically and creatively to find solutions.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that problems can be approached methodically and solved through thoughtful consideration and creative thinking.