Navigators: Extreme Weather – Teacher Resources
SYNOPSIS
Navigators: Extreme Weather looks at the world’s weather systems and climate,
explaining what causes extreme weather conditions and phenomena such as
thunderstorms, lightning, tornados, hurricanes, hailstorms and cyclones. The book
also describes and shows the affects that extreme weather has on the environment and
on lives, exploring the ways in which people adapt to living in extreme temperatures
and how they cope with the aftermath of extreme weather events. Other topics
examined include climate change, and how technology is being used to monitor
weather and to lessen or prevent some of its damaging effects.
WRITING STYLE
The book is written in clear and direct non-fiction style. Each spread is dedicated to
one particular type or aspect of extreme weather. General information is presented in
an introductory paragraph, with more focused information arranged in boxed panels,
detailed captions to illustrations and, on some spreads, in keyed boxes accompanying
maps or pictures. At the foot of each spread there is either a short, interesting fact or a
glossary definition together with a link to a website where the reader can find out
further information. Some pages also carry short quotations from writers, scientists,
politicians and other cultural figures.
AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR BACKGROUND
Margaret Hynes has more than 15 years’ experience in publishing, both as a writer
and editor. She has written books for children on topics that include English
vocabulary, history, geography, poverty and population.
Navigators: Extreme Weather features the work of several illustrators who are
experienced in the fields of natural history, Earth science and technology.
EDITORIAL COMMENT
Navigators: Extreme Weather has been thoroughly researched by the author and
editor. It has also been fully checked for factual accuracy by consultant Dr. Mike
Goldsmith, who is himself an author of many science books for children. Careful
research has ensured that the maps and diagrammatic artwork clearly promote
understanding of the topics covered.
TEACHER ACTIVITIES/NOTES
• Find information in the book about different types of clouds. Design a poster
showing how to identify these clouds and the weather patterns they are linked to.
• How can extreme weather affect farming? Plan and make a short presentation or
write a report. Can you do the same to explain the impact that extreme weather has on
wildlife, transport or housing?
• Use the book to research two contrasting regions of the world. Prepare a table
comparing them.
• Describe or draw the journey of a water drop through the water cycle. Make sure
you include at least one extreme weather event.
• Imagine you are a radio or TV reporter witnessing an extreme weather event. Act
out a live report from the scene showing how it affects people.
• Find different causes of extreme weather. Write a report explaining some or all of
them. Include what, if anything, might be done to stop them.
• Which parts of the world suffer the most extreme weather? Why?