Science & Math

By Staff -- Curriculum Connections, 4/1/2007

ASPEN-BAXTER, Linda. Rain Forests. ISBN 1-59036-446-5. LC 2006001032.
BANTING, Erinn. Caves. ISBN 1-59036-436-8. LC 2006001038.
DE MEDEIROS, Michael. Chaparrals. chart. ISBN 1-59036-438-4. LC 2006001034.
HURTIG, Jennifer. Deciduous Forests. ISBN 1-59036-440-6. LC 2006001031.
ea vol: 32p. (Biomes Series). diags. illus. map. photos. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Weigl. 2006.PLB $26.

Gr 4-6–These attractive titles provide overviews of four distinct biomes, describing each environment’s characteristics and locations, climate, ecosystems, indigenous plants and animals, and ecological concerns, as well as how scientists use technology to study the region. The books’ high-quality photos, accessible language, and well-organized information will attract browsers and researchers alike. B

CANEY, Steven. Steven Caney’s Ultimate Building Book. illus. by Lauren House. 596p. photos. glossary. index. Running Pr. 2006. Tr $29.95. ISBN 0-7624-0409-4. LC 2006923196.

Gr 4-8-Caney presents a comprehensive, clearly written overview of a wide array of structures (both natural and manmade), building methods and materials, and underlying scientific principles, all illustrated with plentiful photos and diagrams. The book also includes a plethora of projects that will encourage hands-on exploration and creativity. A treasure trove of information and ideas. B

DAVIES, Nicola. Extreme Animals: The Toughest Creatures on Earth. illus. by Neal Layton. 58p. diags. CIP. Candlewick. 2006. RTE $12.99. ISBN 0-7636-3067-5. LC 2005043544.

Gr 4-6–Combining clearly presented information with unabashed enthusiasm, Davies introduces amazing animals and plants that have the ability to survive intense conditions—the Arctic chill, desert wastelands, bubbling volcanoes, and more. With the size, shape, and look of a cartoon book—complete with breezy artwork—this offering will grab browsers and generate interest in out-of-this-world life-forms. B

GRADY, Denise. Deadly Invaders: Virus Outbreaks around the World, from Marburg Fever to Avian Flu. 128p. illus. photos. reprods. further reading. index. Web sites. CIP. Kingfisher. 2006. Tr $16.95. ISBN 0-7534-5995-7. LC number unavailable.

Gr 7 Up–In 2005, the author, a reporter for the New York Times, traveled to Angola to investigate an outbreak of Marburg fever. Her objective, first-person account, sprinkled with color photos and instructive fact boxes, is a rivetingly chilling introduction to the global impact of emerging infectious diseases. B

HAMMOND, Richard. Can You Feel the Force? 96p. charts. diags. illus. photos. reprods. chron. glossary. index. DK. 2006. Tr $15.99. ISBN 0-7566-2033-3. LC number unavailable.

Gr 5-8–Hammond offers up an eye-popping introduction to physics asking questions like “How does a balloon burst?” “What color is light?” and “Why do golf balls have dimples?” Answers are found in concise, clearly written explanations and dynamic layouts brimming with colorful photographs, drawings, and diagrams. B

LEVINE, Shar & Leslie Johnstone. Sports Science. 80p. charts. illus. photos. glossary. index. CIP. Sterling. 2006. PLB $19.95. ISBN 1-4027-1520-X. LC 2005024367.

Gr 2-5–Twenty-six hands-on activities encourage kids to explore scientific principles related to sports equipment, clothing, and performance. Each exercise poses a question, lists materials, offers step-by-step directions, and explains results. Playful cartoon illustrations and color photographs of boys and girls in action help get things going. B

MARRIN, Albert. Oh, Rats!: The Story of Rats and People. illus. by C. B. Mordan. 48p. bibliog. further reading. CIP. Dutton. 2006. Tr $16.99. ISBN 0-525-47762-4. LC 2004024512.

Gr 4-6–By turns revolting and riveting, this handsomely designed text recounts the role of rats in human history while relating their astounding physical characteristics and abilities. Slightly ominous black-and-white scratchboard illustrations with deep red borders reflect the grim world of these hardy creatures. B

MARRIN, Albert. Saving the Buffalo. 128p. maps. photos. reprods. further reading. glossary. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Scholastic. 2006. Tr $18.99. ISBN 0-439-71854-6. LC 2005051827.

Gr 5-7–An eloquent and thorough text examines the history of the American bison, from its early significance to its current domesticated status. Elegantly framed and marvelously detailed paintings, photographs, and prints, in color and black-and-white, are sure to entice both casual readers and serious young researchers. B

MONTGOMERY, Sy. Quest for the Tree Kangaroo: An Expedition to the Cloud Forest of New Guinea. photos. by Nic Bishop. 79p. (Scientists in the Field Series). illus. maps. glossary. index. Web sites. Houghton. 2006. Tr $18. ISBN 0-618-49641-6. LC 2005034849.

Gr 4-9–Biologist Lisa Dabek has loved animals ever since she was a child. Now she studies an elusive creature in the remote area of Papua New Guinea. This is an extraordinary snapshot of expertise and teamwork in action, chock-full of gloriously fascinating full-color photographs. A 2007 Robert F. Sibert Informational Honor Book Award Winner. B

PEARSALL, Shelley. All of the Above. 242p. CIP. Little, Brown. 2006. Tr $15.99. ISBN 0-316-11524-X. LC 2005033109.

Gr 5-8–Frustrated by his apathetic, inner-city math students, Mr. Collins challenges them to build a tetrahedron. Told in alternating voices by the teacher, four of his middle-school students, and a few concerned relatives, this story is fused together with the authenticity and empathy Pearsall brings to her varied cast of characters. A cross-curricular winner. B

STEFOFF, Rebecca. The Primate Order. 92p. illus. ISBN 0-7614-1816-4. LC 2004021404.
ZABLUDOFF, Marc. The Insect Class. 95p. diags. illus. ISBN 0-7614-1819-9. LC 2004021819.
––––. The Protoctist Kingdom. 95p. ISBN 0-7614-1818-0. LC 2004021821.
––––. The Reptile Class. 95p. diags. illus. ISBN 0-7614-1820-2. LC 2004021820.
ea vol: (Family Trees Series). charts. photos. bibliog. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Benchmark. 2005. PLB $29.92.

Gr 5-9–After introducing taxonomic classification, these titles each examine a particular grouping of organisms, describing physical features, life cycles, reproduction, diet, habitats, and conservation issues—all while highlighting evolutionary history and species relationships. The authors present a wealth of information in a clear and lively manner, and captivating, full-color photos appear throughout. Useful resources for report writers. B

SWINBURNE, Stephen R. Saving Manatees. 40p. illus. photos. reprods. further reading. index. Web sites. CIP. Boyds Mills. 2006. RTE $16.95. ISBN 1-59078-319-1. LC 2006000523.

Gr 3-7–Swinburne provides an engrossing introduction to these “gentle giants,” their physical characteristics and behavior, and the many factors that threaten their future in Florida’s waters. Filled with personal impressions as well as facts, the writing is vivid and descriptive, and well-captioned, full-color photos supplement the text. A solid choice for marine mammal studies and conservation units. B

VECCHIONE, Glen. Blue Ribbon Science Fair Projects. 224p. charts. diags. illus. index. CIP. Sterling. 2006. PLB $19.95. ISBN 1-4027-1073-9. LC 2005013557.

Gr 6-9-One hundred projects covering a broad range of topics, from “Fun with Critters” to “Amusing Math,” follow a readable introduction with a can-do attitude and handy hints for science fair success. Clear, step-by-step directions are supplied for each project along with a few black-and-white drawings. B

CK: Cooking for Kids, Vol. 1, Episodes 1-6 (Series). 4 DVDs. range: 34-50 min. with bonus DVD, recipe booklet. 411 Video Information (411videoinfo.com). 2006. ISBN 0-9726945-8-7. $39.95 ser. Includes: Treats: Cookies, Muffins & Truffles; Breakfast: Waffles, Eggs & Sausage; Asian Dinner: Sushi & Stir Fry; Cooking Method: Braising, Frying & Searing; Lunch: Chicken Soup & Egg Salad; Italian Dinner: Ravioli, Sauce & Meat Balls.

Gr 4-7–Chef Desiree Dorwart offers budding chefs cooking instructions in themed episodes. A bonus DVD covers kitchen safety, pan identification, knife skills, and other topics. During food preparation, Dorwart defines unfamiliar terms. Recipes are available in the booklet and on the DVD as a PDF file. D

Ecology Fundamentals. video or DVD. 15 min. with tchr’s. guide. Visual Learning Co. (visuallearningco.com). 2006. video: ISBN 978-1-59234-148-9; DVD: ISBN 978-1-59234-149-7. $79.95.

Gr 3-5–Featuring colorful live-action footage, six sections cover “Ecology”; “Organisms, Population, Community”; “Ecosystem”; “Habitat and Niche”; “Ecosystem Roles”; and “Food Chains and Food Webs.” Terms are explored by posing questions and offering oral explanations with visual examples from nature and highlighting the definition on-screen. With the DVD format, dialogue can be viewed, and still photos can be accessed. The teacher’s guide includes worksheets, tests, and activities. VD

Exploring Earth, Sun, and Moon. video or DVD. color. 15 min. with tchr’s. guide. Visual Learning Co. (visuallearningco.com). 2006. video: ISBN 978-159234-156-6, DVD: ISBN 978-159234-157-3. $79.95.

Gr 3-6–Live-action footage and excellent computer graphics introduce the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun. Questions are asked throughout the program, giving teachers a chance to pause for discussion. Blackline masters offer extension activities as well as test options. VD

How Birds Eat. DVD. 37 min. NatureFlix Prods. (natureflixproductions.com). 2006. $20 (+ $3 s/h).

G 3-6–Featuring colorful still photos and live footage of mostly North American birds, this film explains how different birds adapt to their environment as they forage for food. From birds hovering over the water and diving for prey to others herding fish into a circle before scooping them up, these short segments will keep youngsters focused. An intriguing look at natural life, filled with fascinating information. D

Math for Students (Series). 12 videos or DVDs. 23 min. ea. (closed captioned). with tchr’s. guide. Prod. by Schlessinger Media. Dist. by Library Video Co. (libraryvideo.com). 2006. $39.95 ea. Includes: Addition & Subtraction (ISBN 1-4171-0585-2/ISBN 1-4171-0598-4); Algebraic Thinking (ISBN 1-4171-0586-0/ISBN 1-4171-0599-2); Data: Collection, Organization & Graphing (ISBN 1-4171-0587-9/ISBN 1-4171-0600-X); Decimals: Concepts & Operations (ISBN1-4171-0588-7/ISBN1-4171-0601-8); Fractions: Concepts & Operations (ISBN 1-4171-0589-5/ISBN 1-4171-0602-6); Geometry: Triangles & Other Polygons (ISBN 1-4171-0590-9/ISBN 1-4171-0603-4); Integers & the Coordinate Plane (ISBN 1-4171-0591-7/ISBN 1-4171-0604-2); Measurements: Solids, Circles & Standard Units (ISBN 1-4171-0592-5/ISBN 1-4171-0605-0); Multiplication & Division (ISBN 1-4171-0593-3/ISBN 1-4171-0606-9); Probability & Statistics (ISBN 1-4171-0594-1/ISBN 1-4171-0607-7); Problem-Solving Strategies (ISBN 1-4171-0595-X/ISBN 1-4171-0608-5); Ratios, Proportions & Percent (ISBN 1-4171-0596-8/ISBN 1-4171-0609-3).

Gr 4-7–Each series title looks at a specific math concept and provides some real-life applications. Narrators guide the discussions, and a diverse cast of kids act out the application elements. For example, in Multiplication, the youngsters are planning a carnival and all of the math problems relate to making that event a success. “This Really Works” sections highlight effective hints and tricks. VD

Popular Mechanics for Kids: Lightning and Other Forces of Nature. DVD. 88 min. Prod. by Hearst Entertainment. Dist. by Koch Vision (kochvision.com). 2006. ISBN 1-4172-2934-9. $14.98.

Gr 2-6–This title in the award-winning series from the Discovery Kids channel is a fun and eclectic introduction to applied science. The four live-action segments, hosted by children, concentrate on forces found in the natural world such as ice, water, and lightning. D

Space Exploration: Adi in Space (Series) 8 DVDs. color. 20 min. ea. (closed captioned). with tchr’s. guides. Prod. by Schlessinger Media. Dist. by Library Video Co. (libraryvideo.com). 2006. $29.95 ea. Includes: Space Exploration: Adi in Space: The Earth (ISBN 1-4171-0667-0); Space Exploration: Adi in Space: The Inner Planets (ISBN 1-4171-0668-9); Space Exploration: Adi in Space: The Moon & Other Objects in the Sky (ISBN 1-4171-0669-7); Space Exploration: Adi in Space: The Outer Planets (ISBN 1-4171-0670-0); Space Exploration: Adi in Space: Space Travel (ISBN 1-4171-0672-7); Space Exploration: Adi in Space: Studying the Solar System (ISBN 1-4171-0673-5); Space Exploration: Adi in Space: Understanding the Universe (ISBN 1-4171-0674-3).

Gr 2-5–Computer-animated intergalactic travelers Adi and Woops teach viewers about outer space in the series that will add zing to astronomy units. In each program, the characters ask five questions related to the topic such as “What is a black hole?” “Why do the planets orbit the sun?” and “Why is the sky blue?” Answers involve live-action footage, computer-generated graphics, and still pictures. D

Traits and Heredity. video or DVD. 15 min. with tchr’s. guide. Visual Learning Co. (visuallearningco.com). 2006. video: ISBN 978-1-59234-150-4, DVD: ISBN 978-1-59234-151-9. $79.95.

Gr 3-5–What is heredity? What are chromosomes? What are learned traits? These are just some of the complex questions answered in an easy-to-understand manner. Colorful animated sequences help to clarify concepts in this comprehensive, live-action overview of inherited characteristics. VD

The Yuckiest Site on the Internet. yucky.kids.discovery.com/. Discovery Communications Inc. (Accessed 2/12/07).

Gr 2-6–Wendell the Worm and his human friend Dora guide youngsters through some of the foulest science topics around. Kids will be disgusted, and delighted, by the repulsive facts found here (people pass about a quart of gas a day, a headless roach can live for a week, etc.). Quizzes, slideshows, and pictures abound. W