The Story of Trains (Usborne Young Reading: Series Two)
Usborne young reading. Series four
What’s inside...
The Story of Trains by Jane Bingham is a captivating book that takes young readers on a journey through the history of trains. It begins with the early days of steam engines and the first railways, explaining how trains revolutionized transportation and industry. The book covers the development of different types of trains, including diesel and electric, and discusses the impact of trains on society and the environment. With engaging illustrations and accessible text, it introduces children to the technological advancements and the people who were instrumental in the evolution of train travel. The book aims to educate and inspire a sense of wonder about this important mode of transportation that has connected cities and countries around the world. Traces the development of train travel, from the first rails through the advent of the Maglev train in Germany and China, with the major emphasis on Europe.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-9
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think life would be like without trains?
How do trains help people and goods move from one place to another?
Can you describe the different types of trains mentioned in the book?
What was the most interesting fact you learned about trains from this book?
If you could design your own train, what special features would it have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the role of trains in society and their historical impact. Link the discussion to their daily life by asking if they've seen or traveled by train. Foster creativity by inviting them to draw their ideal train or write a short story about a train adventure. Relate the evolution of trains to advancements in other technologies they might be familiar with to deepen their understanding and interest.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of innovation and progress
Explanation: The book traces the history of trains from early steam engines to modern high-speed trains, demonstrating human ingenuity and continuous improvement.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to embrace curiosity and creativity in their problem-solving tasks, understanding that progress is achieved through persistent effort and innovation.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical context
Explanation: By presenting the evolution of trains in a historical timeline, the book teaches children how historical events and technological advancements are interconnected.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop a broader perspective on how past innovations influence present technologies, enhancing their critical thinking about historical impacts.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: The book discusses the shift from coal-powered steam engines to electric and maglev trains, highlighting the importance of developing sustainable technologies.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of eco-friendly innovations and encourage them to be conscious of environmental impacts in their daily choices.