Wednesday, 5 December 2007

Great reading for young scientists


It’s elementary: Putting the crackle into chemistry by Robert Winston. Published by Dorling Kindersley 2007

Full of information boxes, speech bubbles, colourful illustrations and a myriad of facts, this book would appeal to young scientists who enjoy browsing for information. Readers can investigate atoms, find out what dogs are made of, learn how the colours are created in fireworks and much more. A glossary and index are provided. The book is more suitable for recreational reading than research as topics are only covered lightly.
Content most likely to be appreciated by Year 7 plus.

A similar title in the same series is Can you feel the Force: Putting the fizz back into chemistry by Richard Hammond

In this title the reader is drawn into the text by questions such as ‘Can you lie on a bed of nails?’ and ‘Can you walk on custard?’ and are then provided with brief scientific explanations. Pages also include frequently asked questions and practical activities the reader can try.

Other books in this attractive series are:
Think of a number by Johnny Ball and What makes me me? also by Robert Winston.

Reviewed by Melva

Super Science Projects About Earth's Soil and Water
By Robert Gardner. Published by Enslow Publishers Inc, 2008.

This book is easy to read, and the layout and illustrations look inviting. It is a book in a series of six called 'Rockin' Earth Science Experiments' that includes books of science projects about the earth, rocks and minerals, sun and moon, sky, and the weather.

The book has 10 experiments that are are straight forward and fun to do. Each one starts with 'now lets find out,' which is the procedure for the experiment, and plenty of questions for consideration. This is followed on the next page with an explanation, and some related ideas for possible science fair projects. The procedures and explanations are very clear and easy to understand. They are supported by cartoon style diagrams, photographs, and a glossary and list for further reading at the back of the book.

It is suitable for senior primary and intermediate classes, and would be a great introduction to science fair investigations.

Reviewed by Heather

1 comments:

Anonymous said...

The book "It's elementary" is a great book particularly for those with lower reading levels in a secondary school.