The Great Wall of China
Blast back! Series
What’s inside...
The Great Wall of China is an iconic symbol of Chinese history and engineering. This book likely explores the wall's origins, construction, and evolution over centuries. It may delve into the reasons for its construction, such as protection from northern invaders, and discuss the immense labor and resources invested in its creation. The book could also examine the cultural significance of the Wall, its role in Chinese national identity, and the impact it has had on those who lived along its length. Additionally, the book might address the challenges of preserving this UNESCO World Heritage site in the face of modern-day tourism and environmental pressures.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think life was like for the people who built the Great Wall of China?
How do you think building the Great Wall helped the communities around it?
If you could meet someone from the time when the Great Wall was built, what would you ask them?
What lessons can we learn from the dedication and teamwork of those who built the Great Wall?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine the vastness of the Great Wall and reflect on the collective effort it took to build such a structure.
Highlight the historical and cultural significance of the Great Wall, and discuss its impact on modern society.
Ask your child how they feel about the story and the characters’ experiences, encouraging them to express empathy and understanding.
Connect the themes from the book to your child’s own experiences with teamwork or overcoming challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and dedication
Explanation: The story illustrates the construction of the Great Wall of China, highlighting the consistent efforts of thousands of workers over many years.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persisting through difficult tasks, understanding that great achievements require time and effort.
Example Lesson: Historical and cultural awareness
Explanation: Through the narrative about the Great Wall, children gain insights into Chinese history and the reasons behind its construction.
Real-World Application: This knowledge fosters a sense of global awareness and cultural respect, encouraging children to explore and appreciate diverse histories and traditions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The construction of the Great Wall was a monumental task that required the cooperation of countless individuals.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of working together towards a common goal, emphasizing that teamwork can accomplish remarkable tasks that might be impossible alone.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The book details the various challenges faced during the construction of the wall and the innovative solutions devised to overcome them.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that obstacles in any project can be managed with creative thinking and ingenuity.
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of historical structures
Explanation: The book explains not just how but why the Great Wall was built, including its significance in protecting the kingdom from invasions.
Real-World Application: Children learn how historical decisions and constructions continue to impact modern society, enhancing their understanding of how the past shapes the present.