Viking Longship
#3 of 4 in Fly on the Wall Series
on Goodreads (15)
What’s inside...
Be a fly on the wall in the time of the Vikings. Watch skilled ship builders at work, charge into battle, visit a Viking farmstead, experience the hustle and bustle of Jorvik on market day, and listen to fireside tales about the Viking gods. You can even experience the emotion of a Viking funeral. This book is packed with up-to-date information about Viking life from the latest archaeological discoveries and features drawings, notes, wood shavings, straw, wolf fur, and axe marks to show you history as it really happened!
Discussion points
What do you think life was like on a Viking longship? Can you imagine the adventures Vikings might have had?
How did teamwork play a role in navigating and managing the longship?
Why do you think the Vikings traveled such long distances by sea? What were they searching for?
What differences and similarities do you see between the Vikings’ way of life and ours today?
If you were a Viking, what role would you choose to have on the longship and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their daily life with that of a Viking child, fostering a deeper understanding and connection with the historical context.
Discuss the importance of teamwork demonstrated in the book. Relate it to your child’s experiences in sports or group activities.
Use a globe or map to trace Viking routes, enhancing geographical knowledge alongside historical learning.
Create a fun, imaginative scenario where your child can role-play being a Viking, which helps them explore the book’s themes actively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Viking Longship,' children learn about the coordinated efforts required to navigate and manage a longship. The crew must work harmoniously to sail effectively.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to apply these principles in group activities or team sports, learning to collaborate and value each team member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Historical Understanding
Explanation: The book educates about the Viking culture and their maritime prowess, providing a historical perspective through engaging storytelling.
Real-World Application: This can spark interest in history and encourage children to explore different cultures and historical events, enhancing their knowledge and appreciation for the past.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The narrative presents various challenges faced by the Vikings, which they overcome through critical thinking and innovative solutions.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach obstacles in their lives with a problem-solving mindset, enhancing their ability to think critically and creatively.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: As the Vikings encounter harsh weather and sea conditions, the book highlights their resilience and determination to succeed.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance in the face of difficulties, whether in academics, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Cultural Respect and Awareness
Explanation: The book portrays various interactions between Vikings and other cultures, facilitating a narrative of respect and cultural exchange.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to respect diverse cultures and perspectives, promoting inclusivity and empathy in their daily interactions.