Stone Girl, Bone Girl

Stone Girl, Bone Girl: The Story of Mary Anning

"Stone Girl, Bone Girl: The Story of Mary Anning" is a fascinating book that invites young readers to dive into the adventurous life of one of history's most remarkable fossil hunters. Perfect for primary school teachers and home educators looking to spark an interest in science and history, this book tells the inspiring tale of Mary Anning, who made ground-breaking discoveries on the rocky shores of Lyme Regis in the early 19th century.

Mary Anning wasn't your average girl; she had a knack for finding fossils that even seasoned scientists couldn't spot. With a keen eye and relentless curiosity, she discovered the first complete Ichthyosaurus skeleton at the tender age of twelve! Imagine the excitement in your classroom or at home when kids learn about a real-life hero who began her journey as a young girl just like them. The book’s lively illustrations and engaging narrative make it an excellent read for budding palaeontologists and history buffs alike.

But "Stone Girl, Bone Girl" isn't just about fossils; it's about perseverance, curiosity, and following one's passion despite the odds. Incorporate this book into your lessons, and watch as your students' imaginations come alive. You can create hands-on activities like fossil hunting in a sandbox or crafting clay models of prehistoric creatures. This not only makes learning fun but also helps children remember that, just like Mary Anning, they too can achieve great things with a bit of determination and a lot of curiosity.

Author: Laurence Anholt

In a career spanning three decades, Laurence has produced over 200 books, which are published in more than 30 languages. His books span every age from baby board books to adult crime. They have won numerous awards, including the Historical Association Young Quills Award and the prestigious Nestlé Smarties Gold Award on two occasions.

Book Details:

Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Format: Paperback
Print length: 32 pages
Dimensions: 23.62 x 0.51 x 27.94 cm
Reading age: 5 - 8 years old
Publication date: 1 Oct. 2006
ISBN: 978-1845077006

Read alongside these topics:

Fossils

How can "Stone Girl, Bone Girl" help in teaching this Year 3 Science "Fossils" topic?"

"Stone Girl, Bone Girl" is an effective resource for teaching Year 3 students about fossils, particularly through the story of Mary Anning, a pioneering paleontologist. Here are several ways this book can enhance the learning experience:

Engaging Storytelling

The narrative follows Mary Anning, who discovered significant fossils at a young age. This engaging storytelling can captivate students' interest in paleontology and the historical context of fossil discovery, making the subject more relatable and exciting.

Visual Learning

The book features hand-drawn illustrations that can be used for various activities, such as cutting out pictures, sequencing events, and colouring. These activities cater to different learning styles and help reinforce the concepts of fossils visually.

Discussion and Exploration

After reading "Stone Girl, Bone Girl," teachers can facilitate discussions about what fossils are, how they are formed, and their importance in understanding Earth's history. This aligns well with Year 3 science objectives by encouraging critical thinking and inquiry-based learning.

Interactive Activities

Teachers can create interactive lesson plans based on the story. For example, students could engage in activities where they simulate fossil excavation or create their own fossil replicas using clay. This hands-on approach complements the theoretical aspects of studying fossils.

Historical Context

The book provides a historical perspective on Mary Anning's life and contributions to science, which can lead to discussions about women in science and inspire students to pursue their interests in STEM fields. Understanding Anning's challenges and achievements can motivate students and provide a role model for aspiring scientists.

In summary, "Stone Girl, Bone Girl" serves as a multifaceted educational tool that combines storytelling, visual arts, discussion prompts, and hands-on activities to enrich the Year 3 Science curriculum on fossils.