The Science Book of Air: The Harcourt Brace Science Series - Hardcover

Neil Ardley is a contributor for the following Houghton Mifflin Company Title: The Science Book of Air

Grade 3-6-- Four inviting and informative books. Large enough to see at a distance, but not so large as to be unwieldy, each includes 10 to 14 experiments. All are explained in one- or two-page spreads, beginning with a sentence or two about what the experiment proves and why, followed by a list, with individual photographs, of the equipment needed. Numbered, step-by-step directions follow, including some elaboration on the what and why of the introduction, along with the actual procedures, each photographed separately. Finally, each activity includes a sidebar combining a short paragraph and a photo relating the scientific principle as it applies to an actual situation, e.g., in Water , experiments on floating and sinking are followed by information on oil spills and underwater exploration. All of the volumes begin with appropriate cautions about safety measures, and include special warning symbols for any steps that require caution and/or adult help. Most of the projects use common household items. The profuse photographs show children of the appropriate age level and a pleasing assortment of racial/ethnic backgrounds. The books demonstrate a useful balance of action and knowledge, and of illustration and text. The large print and spacious, uncluttered layouts make the books especially easy to follow. Ardley's Sun and Light (Watts, 1983) includes some of the same experiments on a similar level as Color and Light , but is illustrated with drawings rather than photographs and lacks the real-world applications and attractive format of these books. --Susan L. Rogers, Chestnut Hill Academy, PA
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.