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Description
A severe drought has decimated the maize crop and plunged William's village into food scarcity and financial hardship. Unable to attend school, the inquisitive young boy explores the local library and discovers a world of science that fosters his inventiveness. William is inspired to help his community and by using scavenged materials and help from his cousins an idea soon becomes reality. As windmills provide electricity and pump water to the crops, the small Malawian village is transformed. This inspiring true story teaches students that with innovation, determination and action a dream of a better world without poverty can be accomplished.
Click here for more information regarding the author's books, school visits, or teaching resources.
General Assessment
Recommendation of how and where to use it
This book provides a reading experience through which Grade K-3 students will develop comprehension skills as they explore global connections between themselves and other children. Social Studies concepts related to human needs, human rights and the relationship between humans and their environment are reinforced as students learn how William becomes an active community citizen and a world-wide advocate for his people. The story strengthens Science understanding of renewable energy, motion, wind power, and the use of plants by humans. Students will also understand the vital link between water and life and the impacts of drought on plant growth and human well-being.
To extend the learning experience a teacher could involve pupils in a science activity in which they design and build their own mini windmills. The KidWind organization also provides a number of other resources that explore renewable energy. The windmill project and more information about wind power can be found here.
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Themes Addressed
Citizenship (1)
- Community-Building and Participation
Energy (1)
- Alternative Energy
Food & Agriculture (1)
- Subsistence Farming
Human Rights (1)
- Cultural Diversity
