Experiments with Plants

Children's Literature - Meredith Kiger

One of five in the "My Science Investigations" series, this edition focuses on the world of plants utilizing the scientific method to explore aspects of plant life. After a brief introduction on the subject of plants, the scientific method is introduced in a chapter entitled "How Scientists Work." A description and outline of the scientific method is followed by the steps in performing an experiment. It would have been helpful if an example of an experiment had been used in the explanation of what to do as language such as "procedure and record" are mentioned in the "How Scientists Work" but is not included in the explanation of the scientific method. It seems obvious to those who understand the method but is confusing to students being introduced to the scientific method. The book goes on to provide five easy experiments with plants that students can perform. Again, language that is used in the outline for the scientific method is not consistently used in all steps for the actual experiments. While students will eventually get the language and process, it would prevent some confusion if the language was used consistently. A chapter encouraging students to create their own experiments as well as a glossary, sources for further information and an index are included. Color photos and charting examples provide interest. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger, Ph.D.