Nature Projects for Young Scientists

VOYA

This "Projects for Young Scientists" series separates itself from the pack of science fair books by offering more than a bland list of experiments. Detailed information is presented in clear and concise language that is suitable for middle school students, the grade level at which science fairs occur. Nature Projects for Young Scientists provides examples of hands-on experiments that arrive at specific conclusions, making it a solid source for teens planning projects concerning the environment or conservation issues. Who eats whom, building one's own microscope, and how bacteria affect organic materials are topics that will spark imaginations. Charts and diagrams provide excellent information on the interaction of plants and animals. Teachers should be made aware of the section of basic tips on surfing the Web that might steer students away from print resources. The titles in this series could attract teen interest, but their true value is as a classroom source for students who need a burst of inspiration while creating their individual projects. These books are highly recommended in areas served by both school and public libraries where science fair is an annual event. Other books in this seven-volume series offer projects on biology, energy, plants, space exploration, and physics. Glossary. Index. Illus. Photos. Biblio. Source Notes. Appendix. VOYA CODES: 4Q 3P M J S (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Will appeal with pushing; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12). 2001, Franklin Watts, 192p. PLB
— Rollie Welch <%ISBN%>0531117243

School Library Journal

Gr 6 Up-- Offered here are science experiments and nature projects on the five kingdoms of life, with a final chapter addressing current ecological concerns. Instructions are provided for building a simple microscope, which is required for many of the experiments and activities. Project instructions and accompanying illustrations are clearly executed and cautions (in bold type) abound for experiments that require possibly hazardous substances such as acetone and iodine. Suggestions for further reading appear at the end of each chapter. Libraries owning Joel Beller's Experimenting with Plants (Dial, 1989) and Steven Garber's Urban Naturalist (Wiley, 1987) may consider this title as an additional purchase. --Denia Lewis Hester, Dewey School, Evanston, IL