Science Fair Winners: Crime Scene 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

Children's Literature - Leona Illig

This book is part of the "Science Fair Winners" series, and is targeted toward students who are interested in participating in school science fairs. The book consists of twenty "workshops," each having to do with some aspect of forensics or crime scene investigations. Each workshop focuses on a project that is tied to a specific scientific concept and a practical, real-world application of that concept. The workshop includes essential information on the time, knowledge, resources required for successful completion, and also lets the student know if adult supervision or participation is needed. A step-by-step "how-to" is provided, and it is written in clear, readable text that will engage students and guide them through the process. There are eye-catching illustrations, and quotes from various experts on the importance of the scientific concept being explored. The workshops concern such topics as fingerprints; footprints; observational memories; visual memories; facial expressions; how to tell if someone is lying; handwriting, blood, hair analysis; and many more. Given the current interest in forensics and crime scene investigations, this book is sure to be of interest to students who are interested in science fairs, or those who are interested in doing crime scene experiments for their own enjoyment. Reviewer: Leona Illig

School Library Journal

Gr 4–8—These books provide a variety of "workshops" that encourage readers to experiment, observe, and survey two popular topics. The projects clearly define the time required, type of science, concepts, and amount of adult involvement needed. A question to consider; a plan to follow, including detailed steps; a list of required materials; and basic science facts that guide the workshop are also included. The last chapters discuss a variety of ways to present the projects. Series such as Robert Gardner's "Ace Your Science Project" and "Score! Sports Science Projects" (both Enslow, 2009) include more background information on the topic, but these books give additional opportunities for extending the basic projects along with detailed suggestions for presenting them. The cartoon illustrations will appeal to middle-grade scientists. Welcome additions to science-fair collections.—Christine Markley, Washington Elementary School, Barto, PA