April 1, 2013
Gr 3-5-Finely tuned to the needs and methods of a CCSS-based curriculum, these explanations of some aspect of the physical world intersperse a main text with recaps and review or study questions every few pages. All the titles close not only with leads to somewhat more detailed resources, but also several open-ended concepts for consideration and suggestions for enhancement activities. The narratives are divided into easily manageable sections, and the clean design incorporates informative, crisply reproduced, captioned photos; reproductions; diagrams; and graphics. Sidebars often include short but substantial passages from primary-source documents with the requisite analytical glosses and questions to test comprehension. The volume on the history and uses (in and outside the lab) of the scientific method are particularly valuable.
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July 1, 2013
These presentations of physics topics pack in oversimplified statements about concepts often too sophisticated for the intended audience; profiles of famous historical scientists who have contributed in each field; and applied technologies and uses. Inserts engage readers with questions and activity suggestions to reinforce literacy standards. Stock photos throughout the text are mainly decorative; diagrams are underexplained. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind.
(Copyright 2013 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)