Teachers Resource Books

This book called Janice VanCleave's Guide to More of the Best Science Fair Projects is a great resource for any teachers trying to teach science to students. The 50 original science fair projects cover the broad range of physical, mathematical and earth sciences and use low-cost, easily obtained and safe materials. The detailed explanation of how to approach and complete a project may be more valuable as a classroom and teacher resource than to an individual child, as it is written on a level perhaps more sophisticated than the abilities of the children who would select one of the book's unusual projects. A 2000 Parents' Choice® Approved winner.

Product Description

Grade 6 Up: Sussman uses a personable writing style to make a case for the importance of science in this book called Dr. Art's Guide to Science: Connecting Atoms, Galaxies, and Everything in Between. With humorous references to pop culture and questions designed to encourage critical thinking, he makes scientific fundamentals accessible. A systems approach for understanding science is used throughout.

However, to move from atoms to energy, the beginning of the universe, life, evolution, and global environmental issues means a brief overview at best–readers who are seriously curious will require further exploration. Most chapters end with a Stop & Think page that describes strategies for better comprehension and retention. Sometimes, questions and activities that encourage reflection are included. Profuse color visuals help to summarize and clarify concepts. Experiments are provided on a Web site.

The one experiment in the book deals with the relationship between magnets and electromagnetism and requires materials that are available in a science lab. This attractive volume has several layout mistakes and typographical errors, but they don't mar its overall appeal. A Glindex replaces a glossary and an index. Unfortunately, it lacks enough access points to specific information. Neither a textbook nor a reference source, this title will work best as a browsing item.–Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WI

Review

"I recommend that all kids read this book full of amazing, incredible facts.  Teachers will find it a great resource.  The excellent pictures in this book will be of great interest."—Annie Liu, Kidsday Reporter (Newsday, July 9, 2006)

"This delightful volume reflects the true nature of science in a way that is truly ... 'joyful'." (National Science Teachers Association, April 2006)

"I recommend that all kids read this book full of amazing, incredible facts. Teachers will find it a great resource. The excellent pictures in this book will be of great interest." (Newsday, July 2006)

"In Dr. Art's Guide to Science, Art Sussman has written a very attractive, easy-to-read, and engaging science book that will help students better understand science taught at the middle school level." (Science Books and Films, July/August 2006)

"Art Sussman has written a very attractive, easy-to-read, and engaging science book that will help students better understand science taught at the middle school level." (Science Books and Films, July/August 2006)