I'd like to wrap up my Trip to Philadelphia series with one more book about Ben Franklin. Isn't it amazing how one trip can inspire so many different pathways to learning? Well, today I'd like to share a book that will spark the interest of many different types of learners, but particularly those who enjoy hands-on activities.
Children (in grades 3 through 5) will love Amazing Ben Franklin Inventions You Can Build Yourself, by Carmella Van Vleet. Not only will they get to know even more about the many contributions he made to a country he helped create, but they will see connections among a wide variety of subjects: history, geography, science, math, reading, writing, art, and even music.
I love the way this book is organized and illustrated. It's presented in a way that's pleasing to the eye, and easy to follow.
Each chapter starts off with just enough history and trivia to spark interest, as well as some related vocabulary words (highlighted in bold) and black-and-white drawings. There are also some photos of real historical documents, as well as other ideas and resources for connecting the topic to real life.
Each invention has its own dedicated section within a chapter. The instructions are not only clear and concise, but the supply list is shaded, and a time estimate for completion is included.
Swim paddles, invisible ink, and a feather pen are just a few of the 30 items your child can create with the help of this children's book. And the best part is that there is even a money tie-in! You can find out how Ben took a special interest in the printing of paper money, and even design your own watermarked bill.
If you'd like to take the learning to the next level, you can find some related online resources at the U.S. Treasury for Kids web site.
Children between the ages of 6 and 8 may also enjoy learning about how Ben created a fun pencil and paper math game in Ben Franklin and the Magic Squares, by Frank Murphy.
You can find out more about Ben Franklin in part one, Nonfiction Monday: The Incredible Life of Ben Franklin.
As one of the most profound examples of a lifelong learner, thinker, and problem solver, Ben Franklin is a true role model for all of us. While many of us like to learn in a few different ways, he kept an open mind and was willing to learn in ANY way he could.
So, I think we all should try to be a little more like Ben. After all, if it wasn't for people like him, where would we all be today?
I'm happy to tell you that Nonfiction Monday is being hosted at the Wrapped in Foil blog today. Please be sure to stop by for some other great nonfiction recommendations.
Enjoy, and have a great week!
