Pistes d'exploration

Maya and Rafael approach the go-cart project very differently. Determine whether you are more like Rafael or Maya.

As a class, research images and videos of kids’ soap box derbies. Notice the different types of contraptions and how they work. With a partner, design your own go-cart.

This book is dedicated to “all the great thinkers who have gone above and beyond.” What do you think this means? Discuss or further explore examples of real-life innovators (e.g. Steve Jobs, Elon Musk).

Brainstorm what you think happens after the story ends. What kind of adventures might Maya and Rafael have next? Draw and label a picture that could appear in a sequel.

Look at the book's cover and illustrations. What is the setting? What are the characters doing? Did you ever build a go-cart?

Discuss Maya’s inspiration for her go-cart. How do Rafael and Maya collaborate? What does it mean “to think outside the box”? How does the story demonstrate creative thinking? Think of another ending to the story.

Write a newspaper article about the go-cart race. Include information that answers the questions who, what, when, where and why.

Research go-carts (aka soap boxes) online and discuss the different parts. Create a plan for your own soap box. Label the parts. Did you choose to work more like Raphael, and follow a plan perfectly, or like Maya, and add on to another idea?

Roberto: The Insect Architect, The Most Magnificent Thing

Mots-clés

Picture book , contests , cooperation , creativity , friendship , inventions , races , transportation

Commentaire descriptif

Rafael is the first in his class to get the go-cart kit. He assembles it, following the instructions to the letter. His neighbour Maya uses the same kit to make a flapping, rolling contraption. The language builds on the theme of creative invention, as Rafael suggests they team up to win the go-cart race: “The instructions never said we couldn’t team up, either.” Bright and lively illustrations use flowing black line to depict the scruffy pair and their outlandish purple-winged go-cart. While their classmates zoom off, identical go-carts in precise formation, Maya and Rafael take flight! Young readers will appreciate the book’s final message that invention is a process, not a product. Yes, their customized go-cart wins the race, but as soon as Rafael and Maya roll to a stop by the lake, a leaping frog gives them a new idea. The final spread shows them driving an even more amazing vehicle, one that travels on the water, with great big frog feet.