Science Wizardry for Kids

School Library Journal

Gr 3–6—This updated and redesigned edition of a 1992 title includes new materials such as instructions on how to design a solar system model. The front matter includes a list of 12 safety rules, such as asking an adult to help and labeling poisonous chemicals; a page on how to think like a scientist; and practical guidelines for young scientists to follow. Activities, which are presented on a page or a spread each, cover a broad range of topics, including chemistry, light and sound waves, colors, and botany, and are interspersed with general information. For example, in the chapter on movement, an entry explains "How Birds Make It Off the Ground." Green boxed areas provide a list of items needed; most can be found at home. The activities include creating an indicator out of red cabbage to test acids and bases, making an electric lemon, building a simple camera, and designing a terrarium. The directions are presented in easy-to-follow, numbered steps, and simple color drawings appear on every page. The book concludes with a section offering information for parents and teachers and a detailed explanation of how to keep a science notebook. This title offers a variety of simple projects that could be used as a part of the school curriculum or at home.—Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

School Library Journal

Gr 3-6-- These simple science activities are intriguing, with clear instructions that neatly tie the expected results in with the scientific principles they demonstrate. In many cases, readers are encouraged to pursue the concepts further on their own. Several experiments within one chapter often relate to one another, expanding the ideas of the initial activity. The text is informal and chatty, but does not oversimplify. Illustrations consist of a single cartoon for each activity; they are usually useless, but the clarity of the instructions compensates for their inadequacy. Mixed in among the straight experiments are informational tidbits (how hurricanes are named, mnemonics for memorizing the names of the planets) and more practical activities (building a bird feeder). While early chapters on chemistry and physics are mostly experiments, later sections, such as the one on astronomy, consist of more thought-provoking concepts. Some children will appreciate the variety of science-related material; others may be turned off by the unfocused and inconsistent approach. Nevertheless, this is a good resource for easy projects and for kids who are just plain curious; teachers and parents may find it especially useful. --Steven Engelfried, Alameda County Library, CA