Free Fall - Level 29-30

In Free Fall, Kathy Basalaj shares her extraordinary experience participating in a world record free-fall jump involving one hundred women. This engaging recount details Kathy's rigorous training, preparation, and the electrifying moment when the new record is confirmed. The book effectively combines personal narrative with factual information, featuring fact boxes, specialised vocabulary like œdirt diving and œfree-fall formation, and sequences of photographs that vividly convey the sense of movement. The use of colloquial language such as œWow! and œYahoo! adds authenticity to Kathy's story. Readers gain insights into skydiving techniques, safety measures, and the teamwork involved in achieving such a remarkable feat. This text is ideal for teaching recount genre conventions and vocabulary development. It also provides opportunities to discuss design features and interpret labelled diagrams, making it a valuable resource for students interested in leisure, recreation, and challenge themes.

Educational Benefits:

• Enhances understanding of recount text structures and narrative sequencing
• Builds specialised vocabulary related to skydiving and sports
• Develops skills in interpreting labelled diagrams and photographic sequences
• Encourages discussion on safety and teamwork in adventurous activities

Classroom Ideas:

• Create a class glossary of specialised terms from the text
• Sequence key events using photographs or timeline activities
• Research and present on the physics of skydiving and free-fall formation
• Discuss safety rules and teamwork in sports or outdoor recreation

Information:

• Ages: 10-12 years
• Reading Level: 29-30 (Sapphire)
• Format: Illustrated with photographs and fact boxes