Down on the Ice - Level 25-26

Down on the Ice recounts the experience of conservationist Rose Evans, who journeys to Antarctica to study a historic hut built by explorer Robert Scott. Blending history with personal narrative, this factual recount shares Rose's preparation, travel challenges, and encounters with the extreme Antarctic environment. The text includes rich visuals-dramatic photographs, maps, and captions-that immerse readers in the setting. Similes and vivid language evoke strong mental images, while specialised vocabulary such as œcrevasse and œwannagan introduces domain-specific terms. Readers gain historical insight into Scott's expedition while learning about modern conservation efforts. This book enhances students' skills in interpreting visual information and researching historical and environmental topics, making it an ideal cross-curricular resource.

Educational Benefits:

• Supports understanding of historical narratives through modern recounts
• Enhances geographic literacy with maps and setting-based vocabulary
• Builds comprehension through figurative language and visual text features
• Encourages research into environmental science and exploration history

Classroom Ideas:

• Create a diary entry from Rose Evans' point of view
• Explore Antarctic wildlife and create informative posters
• Study Robert Scott's expedition and compare past and present exploration
• Use maps and images to plan a mock Antarctic expedition

Information:

• Ages: 9-11
• Reading Level: 25-26 (Emerald)