The Magic School Bus Rides Again Ocean Adventure
#3 of 13 in Magic School Bus Series
What’s inside...
In this book, The Magic School Bus takes a dive into the ocean, where the class learns all about sea creatures and the unique ecosystems that thrive beneath the surface. The series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, aimed at newly independent readers with easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page. The Magic School Bus is back in a brand-new Netflix TV show, and Professor Frizzle's kid sister Fiona is the new teacher at Walkerville Elementary with the motto: take chances, make mistakes, and get messy! During a class field trip to Hawaii, intended for rest and relaxation, Wanda tries to save an endangered fish from a shark, but ends up needing saving herself, teaching her class about the different type of school -- fish!
Discussion points
What did you learn about the ocean and its creatures from this adventure?
Which part of the ocean adventure did you find the most exciting and why?
How do you think Ms. Frizzle’s class felt when they explored underwater? Have you ever felt the same way?
What would you do if you had a Magic School Bus? Where would you go?
How can we help protect the oceans and sea animals like the ones in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine their own Magic School Bus adventure and describe what they would explore.
Relate the ocean facts from the book to real-life examples, like comparing the depths discussed in the book to distances they understand.
After reading, watch a documentary or visit an aquarium to reinforce the marine life and environmental lessons shared in the book.
Create a fun quiz or draw scenes from the book to help them recall details and ensure they understood the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The students in Ms. Frizzle's class work together to navigate the ocean and solve challenges during their adventure.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working collaboratively with others to achieve common goals, which can be applied in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Throughout the ocean adventure, the students ask questions and conduct experiments to learn more about marine life.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek out knowledge in their everyday experiences, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: The book introduces various ocean ecosystems and discusses the impact of human activities on marine environments.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of environmental conservation and are encouraged to be mindful of their impact on the planet.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: The characters encounter and solve different problems using scientific methods and critical thinking during their journey.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop their problem-solving skills, which they can use in academic settings or in resolving everyday conflicts.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The students face several challenges throughout their ocean journey, but they persevere and continue their exploration.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of resilience and persistence in overcoming obstacles, which is beneficial in all areas of life.