The Magic School Bus Wet All Over
#13 of 13 in Magic School Bus Series
What’s inside...
In the latest installments of the Magic School Bus series, Ms. Frizzle and her class explore the water cycle and the history of human evolution in two exciting adventures. The first adventure dives deep into the water cycle, where the students experience evaporation, condensation, and precipitation firsthand, learning scientific concepts in a fun and engaging way. In the second adventure, Ms. Frizzle takes the class on a journey back in time to explore Arnold's family tree, starting from 3.5 billion years ago. The class witnesses the evolution of life from simple cells to modern humans, capturing the essence of our species' development with humor and insight.
Discussion points
What are some of the different forms water can take, as seen in the book?
How does the water cycle help our planet?
What did you find most surprising about the water cycle?
Can you think of ways we can help conserve water in our daily lives?
If you could go on a Magic School Bus adventure, where would you like to explore and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, briefly discuss what your child already knows about water and its uses.
While reading, pause at key moments to let your child predict what will happen next regarding the water cycle stages.
After reading, relate the water cycle to real-life examples, like rain or the dew on plants in the morning, to reinforce learning.
Encourage your child to draw or describe their own Magic School Bus adventure focused on exploring an element of nature.
Discuss the importance of water conservation and brainstorm together simple actions your family can take to save water at home.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the Water Cycle
Explanation: The story takes children on an adventurous field trip with Ms. Frizzle and her class to explore the water cycle. Through their journey, they learn about evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.
Real-World Application: Children can observe weather patterns and relate them to the water cycle stages they learned in the book, fostering a deeper understanding of their natural environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, the students must work together to navigate through the stages of the water cycle. This teamwork is crucial for the success of their mission.
Real-World Application: Children learn to cooperate with others in group activities at school, during sports, or in play, understanding that teamwork can lead to achieving great results.
Example Lesson: Scientific Inquiry and Curiosity
Explanation: Ms. Frizzle encourages her students to ask questions and explore scientific concepts firsthand, sparking curiosity and inquiry.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to ask questions and engage in scientific exploration, whether it be through school projects, at a museum, or by experimenting with household items safely.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: As challenges arise during their water cycle adventure, the class has to come up with solutions to move forward, demonstrating effective problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think critically and solve problems they face, such as figuring out how to fix a broken toy or resolving a conflict with a friend.