Wings, Stings and Wriggly Things (SuperSmarts) (MiniBeasts)
SuperSmarts Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (10)
What’s inside...
Wings, Stings and Wriggly Things (SuperSmarts) (MiniBeasts) by Martin Jenkins is an engaging and informative children's book that delves into the fascinating world of small creatures. The book introduces young readers to a variety of minibeasts, including insects with wings, creatures with stingers, and other wriggly animals that are often found in gardens, forests, and even in homes. Through vivid illustrations and accessible language, the author educates children about the different species, their habitats, life cycles, and the important roles they play in the ecosystem. The book aims to inspire curiosity and respect for these tiny, yet significant, members of the animal kingdom. SuperSmarts give young readers a smart start! These unique nonfiction books are jam-packed with fascinating facts and brilliant illustrations -- plus dynamic picture-strips and intriguing true-or-false questions. SuperSmarts are information books that children will love to read!Have you ever met a bird-eating spider from Guyana? Now young readers can learn all about this hairy, scary beast as well as butterflies, snails, bees, worms, dragonflies, grasshoppers, ants, and beetles.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to have wings like a butterfly? How would you use them?
Why do you think bees are important for flowers and plants?
Can you imagine a day in the life of an ant? What kind of challenges do you think they face?
How do the different mini beasts depend on each other to survive?
If you could create your own mini beast, what would it look like and what special abilities would it have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, explore with your child what they already know about insects and mini beasts. This will make the new information more relatable.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite mini beast from the book. Discuss the unique features that might help the mini beast survive in its environment.
While reading, pause to ask predictive questions like 'What do you think will happen next?' to keep your child engaged.
After reading, relate the mini beasts' characteristics and roles to real-life situations to deepen your child’s understanding and empathy for nature.
Use descriptive praise when your child expresses curiosity or insight about the book's content to encourage a deeper interest and engagement in learning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: Through vivid descriptions and engaging illustrations of various minibeasts, the book educates children on the importance and roles of these creatures in the ecosystem.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and care for the small creatures around them in gardens and parks, rather than fearing or harming them.
Example Lesson: Diversity and uniqueness
Explanation: The book showcases a wide range of minibeasts, highlighting their different features and behaviors, teaching children that diversity is natural and valuable.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and celebrate differences among their peers and in the world around them.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: ‘Wings, Stings and Wriggly Things’ encourages children to observe closely and ask questions about the natural world, fostering a sense of wonder and inquiry.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to engage in scientific observation and exploration, enhancing their analytical and critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Conservation and environmental responsibility
Explanation: The book discusses the habitats of various minibeasts and the ecological roles they play, emphasizing the need to protect their environments.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to participate in environmental preservation activities such as recycling, clean-ups, or conservation projects in their community.