Science Fair Winners: Bug Science

VOYA - Marilyn Brien

These two choices from the Science Fair series are quite similar in format yet very different in theme. The books each contain twenty workshops that can be used as science fair projects. Each investigation is a scientific inquiry that answers a basic question. The workshops in Crime Scene Science focus on forensics. They include observing footprints, examining fingerprints, mapping crime scenes, and analyzing blood splatters. Bug Science is a collection of workshops that focus on some type of bug. Projects include training a cricket to recognize smells, building a catapult to study a jumping insect, comparing the eating habits of different bugs, and determining the reproduction rate of compost worms. Instructions include the required materials and procedures, time involved, and suggestions for additional resources. Adult direction may be required. In spite of the subtitles, I think they are also excellent resources for science teachers who are looking for activities that promote the development of a variety of skills and concepts utilizing cooperative learning groups. The activities are particularly valuable for upper elementary and middle school youth. These inexpensive resources are valuable for students and teachers as classroom activities or individual enrichment activities. Reviewer: Marilyn Brien