Light and Color (Fun Science Projects)

Children's Literature - Amanda Ledbetter

Practical applications of light are the focus of this selection from the "Fun Science Projects series." Each experiment begins with a short paragraph that presents real-world background, and each concludes with a "why it works" section and further ideas for study. The procedural directions are accompanied by illustrations which assist in comprehension and proper completion of the steps. Activities allow readers to test light's role in plant growth, telling time, cameras, reflection, film, refraction, colors, and 3-D glasses. The portion of the book dealing with color includes experiments with both colors of light, colors of pigments, and acid-base indicators. The book is inconsistent in its use of the adult supervision icon, so adults should be ready to assist with any and all steps of the experiments. With the variety of concepts covered, any elementary science teacher should be able to use some of the activities in this book to add hands-on work to the curriculum or to serve as a springboard for further experimentation. Reviewer: Amanda Ledbetter

School Library Journal

Gr 2-5–This colorful series will appeal to young scientists. The 12 experiments per title demonstrate a variety of basic science principles and include a short description of the principle, illustrated directions, a section explaining “Why It Works,” and ideas for further exploration. The older children in the grade range could try many experiments on their own. Experiments in which adult help is required are clearly marked. Unfortunately, there are no materials lists, and some of the directions, for example Sound’s “Add a little paper to the inner box,” are imprecise.