The Magic School Bus Inside a Beehive
#8 of 13 in Magic School Bus Series
What’s inside...
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 and in one of the books, the Magic School Bus turns into a beehive. Ms. Frizzle's class learns firsthand about the lives of worker bees, drones, and the queen bee. They discover how honeybees find food, make a comb, honey, and beeswax, and care for their young, all from the bee's perspective. The new Magic School Bus: Rides Again book series and animated show are also available on Netflix.
Discussion points
What did you learn about how bees make honey?
Why do you think bees are important for the environment?
How did Ms. Frizzle's class help solve the problem in the beehive?
Can you think of ways we can help protect bees in our environment?
What was the most surprising fact you discovered about bees?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they already know about bees and beehives to activate prior knowledge.
Use the illustrations in the book to ask your child to describe what they see and think is happening, which promotes observational skills.
While reading, pause to ask predictive questions like 'What do you think will happen next?' to keep your child engaged.
After reading, relate the story to real-life by discussing the role of bees in pollinating the fruits and vegetables we eat.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene or concept from the book, then explain it to you to reinforce learning and comprehension.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, the students on the Magic School Bus work together to navigate the complex environment of a beehive. Their collaborative efforts are essential to their learning and success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperation and working with others to achieve common goals, useful in group projects and family activities.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Ms. Frizzle's class demonstrates an eagerness to learn about bees and their roles in our ecosystem. Their adventure underlines the importance of asking questions and seeking knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their natural surroundings, ask questions, and seek out answers to understand the world around them better.
Example Lesson: Environmental Responsibility
Explanation: The book highlights the critical role bees play in pollination and maintaining biodiversity. It showcases the interconnectedness of nature and the impact of each creature.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the significance of environmental conservation and encourages actions like planting bee-friendly flowers or reducing pesticide usage.
Example Lesson: Bravery and Adventure
Explanation: The students face the unknown with bravery as they shrink down into a beehive. Their adventurous spirit helps them learn firsthand about bees.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to embrace new experiences and face challenges with courage, which can help them in trying new activities or in academic challenges.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Each Individual's Role
Explanation: The story explains how each bee has a specific role that benefits the hive, from workers to the queen. Each role is crucial for the hive's survival.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the importance of every individual's contribution in a community, encouraging responsibility and respect for diverse roles in society.