The Manatee Scientists: Saving Vulnerable Species (Scientists in the Field Series)
Scientists in the Field Series
on Goodreads (83)
What’s inside...
In The Manatee Scientists, John Reynolds does an aerial count of manatees from the Florida sky; Lucy Keith spends a weekend rescuing manatees trapped in a dam in Senegal; and Fernando Rosas takes the author on an Amazonian boat trip, looking for a young manatee he released back into the wild, with emotional results. These scientists are working hard to save manatees: docile, large sea mammals who are eaten in some parts of the world, feared in others, and adored in still others. But factors such as human encroachment, disease, environmental hazards, and being hunted are causing their numbers to decline: they are an endangered species, in need of help.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
John Reynolds
Fernando Rosas
Lucy Keith
Discussion points
What do you think are the biggest challenges that manatee scientists face?
How do you feel about the ways scientists are trying to save the manatees?
Can you think of any ways we, as individuals, can help protect vulnerable species like the manatee?
Why do you think it's important to learn about and protect endangered animals?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, summarize the key points of the book to refresh your child’s memory.
Show genuine interest in their responses and encourage them to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings.
Relate the conservation efforts in the book to local wildlife initiatives to make the conversation more relevant.
Compliment your child on insightful comments to boost their confidence in expressing their thoughts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Conservation Awareness
Explanation: The book emphasizes the importance of preserving endangered species through the efforts of scientists working with manatees.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and support environmental conservation efforts in their communities.
Example Lesson: Scientific Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The narrative showcases various scientists engaging in fieldwork, demonstrating the process of scientific inquiry and discovery.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to explore nature, ask questions, and potentially develop an interest in scientific careers.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The scientists in the book work together, combining different skills and knowledge to help save the manatees.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working cooperatively in group settings at school or in community projects.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The book highlights how scientists confront and solve complex problems in their efforts to protect manatees.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to adopt a problem-solving mindset and apply it to challenges in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: The scientists face various challenges but remain committed to their goal of saving the species, showcasing resilience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist in their endeavors even when faced with difficulties, in academics or personal goals.