A traditional written summary benefits from recasting with an objective, adaptive literary analysis.
The following re-focused, written outline reflects STEAM components.
“The Little Prince” reflects STEAM learning through the following connections:
Science: “The Little Prince” includes a planet-hopping journey, which can be used to introduce concepts like planetary orbits, different climates, and the unique characteristics of various planets. Students can research different planets and their characteristics, creating models or presentations about them. The little prince’s asteroid (B-612) can be explored as a learning opportunity for understanding the solar system and the classification of celestial bodies.
Technology:
The lamplighter’s lamp, which is essential for the planet, can be explored as an example of a technological invention that provides light and keeps the planet running.
The fox’s communication with the little prince can be analyzed as a form of early technology, or a concept of telecommunication that was used before modern forms of technology.
Engineering: The little prince’s asteroid can be used as a case study of sustainable engineering. Students can research different methods of resource management and how they can be applied to his small planet. The lamplighter’s lamp can be explored as a simple engineering design, and students can create their own models or designs of the lamp.
Mathematics: The Little Prince mentions the little prince’s planet B-612, which can be used as a starting point for mathematical exploration. Students can create diagrams or models of the planet and its layout, or use it as an example for understanding spatial reasoning. The Little Prince can be used to introduce mathematical concepts like fractions or ratios, especially when discussing the different types of baobab trees and their impact on the planet.
Art: The illustrations in the The Little Prince can be used as a starting point for artistic exploration. Students can recreate the illustrations or create their own interpretations of the story’s characters and settings. The story of The Little Prince can be used as a source of inspiration for creating different art forms, such as paintings, sculptures, or digital art.
Language Arts: The plot of The Little Prince can be used to explore themes of friendship, responsibility, and the importance of seeing beyond surface appearances. Students can engage in creative writing activities inspired by the story, such as writing their own poems, stories, or plays. The book’s language and imagery can be explored as a source of inspiration for creative writing.
