Shape It!: Magnificent Projects for Molding Materials

Children's Literature - Children's Literature

Part of a series of books to introduce kids to industrial design, the projects in this book explore working with moldable materials. Some of the materials used are foam plastic sheets, plaster, clay, dough, papier-mache and mod-roc. Straightforward and clearly illustrated, the projects range from making bread sculpture and making clay pots to stamping out shapes from plasticine clay. The materials and tools are household items that are readily available. Grid paper is included for developing working drawings. One created object is a model of an insect with clay "hairs" extruded through a garlic press. Favorite projects will be cookies, or moldable materials to eat. Moldable materials are a major part of our environment and this is an introduction to an important technology of everyday life. 1999, Lerner Publications, Ages 8 to 12, $21.27. Reviewer: Kristin Harris

School Library Journal

Gr 3-7-These books achieve their stated goal of involving readers in "designing and making their own working technology projects, using readily available salvaged or cheap materials" through explanations of basic concepts that are adaptable to a number of projects. Build It! features ideas for bridges, domes, structures that collapse, and pop-ups. Gear Up! explains the science behind machines such as pulleys, levers, crankshafts, gear wheels, and conveyor belts. Shape It! introduces several kinds of craft activities with molding materials, including salt dough, plaster, air-drying clay, and edible materials like cookie dough. Zap It! includes electric circuits, pressure pads, and different kinds of switches. Some of these ventures require less familiar supplies like "capacitors" and a "reed switch," which are clearly pictured, though no suggestions are given for where they might be purchased. Step-by-step directions with clear, colorful graphics and a list of materials needed accompany each activity. A small, cropped color photo often accompanies the idea. Suggestions for ways to expand on the projects are included. The format is clear and consistent throughout the series. The projects and topics outlined take some time and attention, and though they all have specific directions for getting started, readers are encouraged to use their creativity to adapt the ideas to original projects and inventions.-Marilyn Long Graham, Lee County Library System, Estero, FL Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|