Counting On Katherine
How Katherine Johnson put astronauts on the moon

Counting On Katherine

Counting On Katherine is a children's picture book that celebrates the life and achievements of Katherine Johnson, a pioneering African American mathematician whose work at NASA was crucial to the success of the United States' space missions, including the Apollo 11 moon landing.

Overview of Katherine Johnson's Contributions

Katherine Johnson (1918-2020) was known for her exceptional mathematical skills, which she applied to calculate trajectories, launch windows, and emergency return paths for numerous space missions. Her calculations were instrumental during the early years of NASA, particularly for Project Mercury and the Apollo program. Notably, she calculated the flight path for the Apollo 11 mission that successfully landed astronauts on the moon in July 1969.

Early Life and Education

Born in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, Johnson displayed a talent for mathematics from a young age. She graduated high school at just 14 and went on to earn degrees in mathematics and French from West Virginia State College. After a brief teaching career, she joined the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA, in 1953.

Key Achievements at NASA

Johnson's career at NASA spanned over three decades, during which she made significant contributions:

  • Project Mercury: She calculated trajectories for missions that included Alan Shepard's first American spaceflight and John Glenn's orbital flight. Glenn famously requested that Johnson verify the computer's calculations before his launch, saying, "If she says they’re good, then I’m ready to go" .
  • Apollo Missions: Johnson played a critical role in calculating the trajectory for Apollo 11 and worked on backup procedures for Apollo 13 after its mission was aborted. Her calculations ensured safe returns for astronauts during these historic missions .

Legacy and Recognition

Katherine Johnson received numerous accolades throughout her life, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015 and a Congressional Gold Medal in 2019. Her story was popularized in Margot Lee Shetterly's book Hidden Figures, which highlights the contributions of African American women mathematicians at NASA during the space race. This narrative was also adapted into a successful film in 2016 .

Johnson's legacy continues to inspire future generations, particularly young women and people of color pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). She emphasized the importance of education and perseverance throughout her life .

Author: Helaine Becker

Helaine has written over seventy books. She attended high school in New York before graduating from Duke University. She is married with two sons and is an active swimmer, runner and cyclist, as well as being a compulsive read-aholic. She has an orange belt in karate and is contemplating going for her grapefruit belt. Her award-winning non-fiction includes Counting on Katherine, Worms for Breakfast and Zoobots, and she has written many picture books and young adult novels. She also writes for children’s magazines and for children's television.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Format: Hardback
  • Print length: 40 pages
  • Reading age: 6 - 8 years old
  • Publication date: 15 April 2021
  • ISBN: 9781529005615

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How can Counting On Katherine help in teaching the KS1 topic Neil Armstrong?

Katherine Johnson at NASA in 1966

Counting On Katherine, a children's book about Katherine Johnson, can be an effective resource for teaching the KS1 topic of Neil Armstrong by connecting mathematics, history, and space exploration. Here are several ways it can enhance the learning experience:

Engaging Storytelling

  • Inspiration through Biography: The book narrates the inspiring story of Katherine Johnson, an African-American mathematician who played a crucial role in NASA's Apollo missions, including Apollo 11, which landed Neil Armstrong on the moon. This connection can captivate students' interest in both Johnson's achievements and the historical significance of Armstrong's mission.
  • Illustrative Learning: The engaging illustrations and narrative style of the book help maintain children's attention, making complex subjects like math and space more accessible and enjoyable for young learners.

STEM Education

  • Mathematics in Action: Counting On Katherine emphasizes Katherine’s love for math and her role in calculating trajectories for space missions. This can serve as an introduction to basic math concepts in a real-world context, showing students how math is essential in fields like space exploration.
  • Encouraging Curiosity: By highlighting Katherine's inquisitive nature and her journey from a young girl who loved counting to a key figure at NASA, educators can inspire students to explore their interests in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

Cultural and Historical Context

  • Discussion on Diversity: The book provides opportunities to discuss the challenges faced by women and people of color in STEM fields. This context can lead to discussions about diversity, equality, and the importance of representation in science and history.
  • Linking to Neil Armstrong: By integrating Katherine Johnson’s contributions with Neil Armstrong's historic moon landing, educators can create a comprehensive lesson plan that covers both the scientific achievements and the social implications of these events.

Interactive Learning Activities

  • Classroom Activities: Teachers can incorporate activities such as trajectory calculations or simple math problems inspired by Johnson’s work. This hands-on approach reinforces learning through practical application.
  • Thematic Lessons: The book can be used as part of a thematic unit that includes other resources about Neil Armstrong and space exploration, allowing for interdisciplinary connections between math, science, history, and literature.

In summary, Counting On Katherine serves as an engaging educational tool that not only teaches students about Neil Armstrong but also fosters a deeper understanding of mathematics and its application in real-world scenarios while promoting discussions on diversity and inclusion in STEM.

A bit more about Katherine Johnson

Teachers and parents, are you prepared to embark on an extraordinary narrative that is both inspirational and an exceptional educational resource? Let us delve into "Counting On Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Put Astronauts on the Moon" by Helaine Becker, a remarkable book that illuminates the remarkable mathematician Katherine Johnson's crucial contributions to NASA's space missions. Katherine's account seamlessly intertwines mathematics, history, and unwavering perseverance.

Her transformative evolution from an inquisitive child enamoured with counting to a pivotal figure at NASA is truly awe-inspiring. Responsible for calculating the trajectories for the historic Apollo 11 mission, Katherine ensured the safe lunar landing and return of Neil Armstrong and his team. Picture the excitement of sharing this authentic odyssey with students or children, showcasing how mathematics can be a formidable asset!

Leveraging this book in educational settings promises both enjoyment and enlightenment. Engage in activities such as crafting space travel-inspired math problems or delving into the historical backdrop of Katherine's accomplishments. Consider setting up a "Mission Control" area complete with charts, maps, and mathematical conundrums to unravel. By integrating Katherine's narrative into your teachings, you not only impart crucial STEM principles but also ignite aspirations in young minds to dream expansively and reach for the stars.Acquire a copy, assemble your budding astronauts, and prepare for a cosmic voyage through time and space, guided by the remarkable Katherine Johnson. Wishing you joyful teaching and exploration!

Acquire a copy, assemble your budding astronauts, and prepare for a cosmic voyage through time and space, guided by the remarkable Katherine Johnson. Wishing you joyful teaching and exploration!

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