How Scientists Work

Children's Literature

This slender book is one of the series, "Simply Science." With large print and easy to read text on bright white backgrounds, it explains scientific method in simple terms. It offers an example of a science project that children might undertake, and then explains the steps of scientific method using the science project as an example. By using a simple and consistent example the explanation is much clearer than it might have been without it. Most double page spreads include a full-page illustration, clearly labeled with an explanatory caption. Difficult to understand words are printed in bold face type and defined in a glossary. The book also includes a table of contents, an index, and a list of sources for more information. There is an Internet address for the publisher's web page that includes three links to other Internet sites, two of which are functional, appropriate for the grade level, and interesting, and one which was not working on the day it was checked. This book would be very useful for students in lower primary grades who are searching for information about scientific method, although many lower grade science textbooks might include similar information. 2004, Compass Point Books, Ages 7 to 10.
—Leslie Rounds

School Library Journal

Gr 3-5-How Scientists Work is a clear, directly worded discussion of the scientific method. Odd non sequiturs and choppy text in Satellites distract from an otherwise workmanlike look at a fairly complex matter. Sinking also offers a scientifically sound introduction to a complicated subject. All three titles are attractively designed with usually clear and well-captioned, full-color photos and reproductions. End matter includes a glossary, a factoid, and a list for further reading with a Web crawler that is maintained by the publisher for accuracy and content. These books are adequate for libraries seeking to bolster and extend curriculum, but perhaps not first purchases for general interest.-Dona Ratterree, New York City Public Schools Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.