What Does a Lineman Do? is more than just a story—it’s a chance to connect reading, science, and career awareness. Here are some simple ways to bring the book into your classroom:
1. Read-Aloud & Discussion
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Before reading: Ask students, “Who do you think keeps our lights on?”
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During reading: Pause to point out tools (bucket truck, hot stick, safety gear).
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After reading: Discuss why linemen are important community helpers.
2. Vocabulary Building
Introduce new words: electricity, lineman, bucket truck, powerline, outage, hot stick.
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Create a word wall with pictures.
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Have students draw or act out the word’s meaning.
- Download our vocabulary worksheet here.
3. Cross-Curricular Connections
Science:
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Build a simple circuit with a battery, wire, and bulb.
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Talk about weather and how storms affect power.
Social Studies:
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Place “community helpers” (linemen, firefighters, teachers, nurses) on a chart.
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Discuss how different jobs keep our communities safe and running.
Writing:
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Have students write a “thank you” note to a lineman.
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Prompt: “What would happen if we didn’t have electricity for one day?”
Math:
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Count how many devices in your classroom use electricity.
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Graph the results together.
4. Art & Creativity
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Draw a bucket truck or lineman climbing a pole.
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Design a “Safety Poster” showing how linemen stay safe at work.
5. Extension Activities
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Invite a guest speaker from the local power company (in-person or virtual).
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Take a walking field trip around the school to spot powerlines.
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Write and perform a short play about a power outage and how linemen fix it.
