Be a Cave Explorer

Synopsis

Big Cat Phonics for Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised has been developed in collaboration with Wandle Learning Trust and Little Sutton Primary School. It comprises classroom resources to support the SSP programme and a range of phonic readers that together provide a consistent and highly effective approach to teaching phonics.

This photographic non-fiction book explores a variety of caves and how they are made. Enjoy fantastic caves and learn what you need to do to become a cave explorer!

Pages 22 and 23 allow children to re-visit the content of the book, supporting comprehension skills, vocabulary development and recall.

Reading notes within the book provide practical support for reading with children, including a list of all the sounds and words that the book will cover.

Summary

Chapter 1: Safety First

* Emphasizes the importance of safety, including proper equipment, companion systems, and being aware of potential hazards.
* Example: A cave explorer must wear a helmet, gloves, and proper lighting to prevent injury from falling rocks and darkness.

Chapter 2: Getting Started

* Provides an overview of cave exploration, including basic techniques, terminology, and finding a mentor.
* Example: A beginner cave explorer joins a local club to learn the basics of traversing caves, such as crawling, squeezing, and using ropes.

Chapter 3: The Basics of Mapping

* Explains the techniques used to map caves, including line-of-sight mapping and compass-and-clinometer surveying.
* Example: A cave explorer uses a compass and clinometer to measure the distance and direction of a cave passage, creating a detailed map for future reference.

Chapter 4: Advanced Mapping Techniques

* Introduces advanced mapping methods, such as three-dimensional laser scanning and photogrammetry.
* Example: Researchers use advanced scanning techniques to create a highly accurate 3D model of a cave, providing precise data for geological studies.

Chapter 5: Exploration and Discovery

* Describes the process of cave exploration, including techniques for finding and exploring new cave passages.
* Example: A cave explorer follows a narrow fissure in a cliff face and discovers a previously unknown cave system.

Chapter 6: Cave Conservation

* Highlights the importance of protecting caves and their sensitive ecosystems.
* Example: Cave explorers participate in cleanup efforts to remove garbage and protect the delicate cave environment from pollution.

Chapter 7: Ethics and Responsibility

* Emphasizes the ethical and responsible behavior expected of cave explorers.
* Example: A cave explorer follows the "leave no trace"原则, avoiding disturbing cave formations or leaving behind any trash or equipment.

Chapter 8: Cave Science

* Explores the scientific disciplines related to cave exploration, including geology, hydrology, and biology.
* Example: A team of scientists conducts research in a cave to study the evolution of cave formations and the unique organisms that live there.

Chapter 9: Caving as a Sport

* Discusses cave exploration as a competitive and challenging sport.
* Example: Cave explorers participate in competitions to navigate complex cave systems as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Chapter 10: The Future of Cave Exploration

* Examines the advancements in cave exploration technology and the potential for future discoveries.
* Example: Engineers develop new robotics and remote sensing techniques to explore deep, narrow, or dangerous caves that are inaccessible to humans.