Synopsis
Coming up with an interesting concept for a science project or an experiment be a challenge. That's why U.X.L created Experiment Central. In four volumes, your students will find examples of science projects and experiments they can replicate for science fairs and other purposes, as well as suggestions on ways they could design their own project that investigates a specific scientific topic.
To achieve the first purpose, step-by-step descriptions of projects are given. To achieve the second, hints and suggestions are included to enable a student to alter the original experiment or create a completely new one. Unlike other science experiment resources, Experiment Central also provides an accessible explanation of the theory and history behind the experiment.
Features include 180 black and white photos plus 300 technical drawings, sidebars on variables, safety tips and troubleshooting, a parents guide to their role in the experiment process and much more.
VOYA
This reference set is a complete guide to learning scientific principles through experimentation. One hundred experiments covering the major disciplines of science are categorized by scientific concept in fifty chapters. Each experiment provides background information needed to understand the scientific principle before proceeding to a question that can be answered by experimentation. The wide variety of experiments include building a glider, testing a lemon multicell battery, and the effect of acid rain on brine shrimp. Words to know appear in sidebars as well as in a glossary. The scientific method is emphasized, with suggested hypothesis and variables for each experiment. Skill in observation, measurement, data collection, and predictions are an integral part of the experiment. Step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting, and safety concerns will guide the student or leader. The difficulty level, time required, and anticipated budget are given for each experiment and are provided also as separate indexes. The black-and-white photos and diagrams are adequate for explanation but are unexciting. Students might be more impressed with the conciseness of Robert Gardner's books on experimenting. Nevertheless teachers who lack background in science or a science library, as well as adults working with students in informal science settings, will be delighted to find such an inclusive handbook. Glossary. Index. Illus. Photos. Further Reading. Appendix. 2000, UXL, 800p. in 4 vols. PLB $110/set. Ages 12 to 18. Reviewer: Marilyn Brien
SOURCE: VOYA, October 2000 (Vol. 23, No. 4)