Celebrate the Millennium with Milestones in Space
Have you ever wanted to build a rocket ship? In 1957, the Soviet Union sent the first human-made object into space-Sputnik 1. Today, using these books below, kids can perform and read about experiments and examine areas of space exploration with a hands-on approach. From building models to testing gravity, future astronauts are sure to get a kick out of these space related activity books.
Since may students learn from actually doing rather than reading, the following sites offer a wealth of activities all related to astronomy.
http://hea-www.harvard.edu/ECT/the_book/index.html
http://space.about.com/od/activities/Activities_for_Kids_Astronomy_and_Space_Related.htm
http://www.kidsastronomy.com/fun/index.htm
http://www.ehow.com/way_5202396_astronomy-activities-kids.html
http://www.astronomy-for-kids-online.com/astronomycrafts.html
Reviews
Constellations
Frances Purslow
Hundreds to thousands of years ago, people made up stories about the stars and created constellations, or patterns in the sky. Stars were part of the great unknown, and were explained based on mythical gods and goddesses, the mysteries of life, and fateful events. Today, we have technology to explore farther into space, yet each time answers are revealed they draw up new questions and wonders. For young readers, this book helps to provide a basic understanding about finding stars in the sky, identifying constellations, learning about sky technology and introducing the Hubble Telescope. Students also learn simple facts about star maps, the Zodiac, and famous astronomers. Each page highlights a new topic and is supported with bold, colorful pictures. New vocabulary words are bolded throughout the text. One simple experiment demonstrates making your own constellation by using household materials, which can be completed in the classroom or at home. At the end of the book, there are additional references to learn more about constellations and stars. The final section offers inquiry questions with answers and “Words to Know” to reinforce new vocabulary words. This book is in the “Science Matters” series. It highlights beginning information to supplement first time book reports and is satisfactory for high-low readers. 2007, Weigl Publishers Inc, $24.45. Ages 8 to 11. Reviewer: Lisa P. Hill (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1590364104
ISBN: 1590364163
ISBN: 9781590364109
ISBN: 9781590364161
Earth-Shaking Science Projects About Planet Earth
Robert Gardner
Illustrations by Tom Labaff
The title of this book would indicate that it is full of creative and interesting projects suitable for science fairs. By page 6 of the introduction, the author suggests that the experiments explained in the book may serve as a springboard for science fair projects. He stresses creativity and suggests that the section of "further reading" may prove useful. So, what does the book offer? Five chapters provide factual information about the earth and moon. Within the chapters, a variety of experiments are described to help the learner gain a "hands-on" method of understanding some of the concepts. At the end of each chapter are suggestions for science projects. Some propose further experiments, while others pose questions that seem to have factual answers. The chapters do not flow logically with one another. Chapter One describes the location of the earth in space and details how we can find our location on earth by using latitude and longitude. Chapter Five discusses mapping the earth, which would have been a logical link with Chapter One. Chapter Two describes the moon and its relationship to earth. Chapter Three examines the earth and the forces that shape it and is followed by Chapter Four, which discusses decomposition and pollution. Science fairs are often held in middle and high schools. Assuming that the author was targeting that population, this book is a strange mix of experiments that range from a very elementary one showing the benefits of planting vegetation to retard erosion (grass-covered dirt vs. dirt) to the construction of an astrolabe to measure the altitude of stars in degrees. The book contains many good ideas, some developed better than others. It falls short of the statement on the front of the book that it is among the "Best Science Projects," but it does provide some interesting experiments for students and teachers alike. (From the Earth Science! Best Science Projects Series.) Glossary; Index; C.I.P. Acceptable, Grades 7-8. 2005, Enslow, 128pp., $26.60. Ages 12 to 14. Reviewer: Linda Hummel Fitzharris (Science Books and Films (Vol. 41, No. 4)).
This is one book in the “Rockin’ Earth Science Experiments” series by Enslow Publishers. Written for students in grades 3 and 4, and the book covers many aspects of geology (e.g., structure of the earth, moving continents and plates, earthquakes, and volcanoes) that students in those grades are studying in school. The text describes scientific concepts in a clear and simple manner, creatively illustrating each idea with hands-on experiments that can be easily performed at home or at school. The equipment needed is listed in a sidebar at the beginning of each section. Each experiment is followed with a concise, but entertaining, explanation of what happened and why it happened. One of the strong points of the books in this series is that they encourage young readers to investigate and experiment the way real scientists do, and not just repeat the exact same activity as that shown in the book. Suggestions for related investigations, which might even be used for a science fair, are given for each topic covered. Although this book includes several experiments found in other books, the clear explanations and ideas for extensions offer something often missing from other, similar texts. Furthermore, the concepts behind the experiments are enhanced by the colorful illustrations that depict what is happening. Safety guidelines are presented at the front of the book, and “ask an adult” phrases are printed in bold letters whenever adult assistance is recommended. References to Web sites and other books on related topics are listed at the end of the book. This title could helpful in a classroom covering the geology topics mentioned. It would be a nice supplement to an existing curriculum, especially for a teacher who needs more background and demonstrations or experiments to use in class. The book also offers independent reading and investigation to a student who wishes to go beyond what is done in the classroom. The challenging questions at the end of each concept encourage further inquiry. (Rockin' Earth Science Experiments Series) Glossary; Index; C.I.P. Highly Recommended, Grades 3-4. 2007, Enslow, 48pp., $17.95. Ages 8 to 10. Reviewer: Marilyn A. Marks (Science Books and Films (Vol. 43, No. 6)).
ISBN: 9780766027336
ISBN: 0766027333
ISBN: 0766023621
ISBN: 9780766023628
George's Secret Key to the Universe
Lucy & Stephen Hawking and Christophe Galfard
Illustrated by Garry Parsons
What a delightful book! Who knew that a child following a small animal through a hole would lead to such a great adventure? Like Alice, that is exactly what happens to George when his pet pig, Freddy, leads him through a hole in the fence into the neighbor’s yard. George’s parents have worked hard to give him a natural upbringing “free from toxins, additives, radiation, and other such evil phenomena.” But, while his parents enjoy environmental protest marches and using candles to avoid electricity, George longs for theme parks, computer games, and airplane rides. So, when George meets his neighbor Annie and her father Eric, he steps into a world totally opposite from his own, except for one thin thread that joins the neighbors, and that is their desire to save humanity each in his/her own way. While George’s parents try not to use the earth’s resources, Annie’s father has created the world’s most advanced computer, the super-intelligent Cosmos, to help him find a planet that man could inhabit. Through portals created by Cosmos, George and Annie are able to ride a comet on an incredible journey to the very edge of our solar system. GEORGE’S SECRET KEY covers several current themes, including being responsible in how we use science, conserving our natural resources, and exploring beyond our own solar system; it also includes an exciting story that leaves you sitting on the edge of your chair. An evil scientist gives Cosmos instructions that lead Eric into a black hole. It is up to George and Annie to find the kidnapped Cosmos and discover the key that brings Eric back from the dark hole. Full of great illustrations, pages of incredible color photographs from outer space, and fascinating scientific facts about the universe, this is a great book for eight year olds and up. Adults will enjoy reading this one with their children. (With Christophe Galfard.). Fiction, Highly Recommended. Grades 3 and up. 2008, Simon & Schuster, 297p., $17.99. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Judy Killgo (The Lorgnette - Heart of Texas Reviews (Vol. 21, No. 2)).
ISBN: 9781416954620
ISBN: 1416954627
Gravity
Joy Frisch-Schmoll.
The “Simple Science” series introduces basic concepts with colorful photos that show familiar examples children will recognize. Appropriate vocabulary comprises brief text with specific words highlighted (some pronunciation included) and then featured in a short glossary and index. Do you have a few marbles? There is a fun experiment with clear instructions for a child to discover what gravity does. This can generate exploration with additional objects whether light as a feather or heavy as a large rock, shoe, or toy. For instance, how can there be gravity on Earth and in Outer Space? What does a famous amusement park ride have in common with a rocket ship or our solar system? Can it be that Isaac Newton’s apple experiment is still one of the best methods to demonstrate the force of gravity even in today’s modern technological world? As early elementary children begin the study of mass, the characteristic of how big and heavy an object is, gravity is a common force they can examine in the classroom, on the playground, at home, or in their own private lab. The series addresses other forces, such as movement, temperature, and magnetism, which are fundamental elements of the universe. Information is not overwhelming or too detailed for the targeted age group. Over time, a child’s growing development will assist, as they interact with science more thoroughly with a greater depth of understanding. In the meantime, educators and families will enjoy creating original activities while delighting in new discoveries over the years. Beginning readers may need assistance while scanning through pages. “Simple Science” would be terrific for read-alouds, discussion groups, or center time. 2008, Creative Education, $24.25 Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Susan Treadway, M.Ed (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781583415764
ISBN: 1583415769
How People Learned to Fly
Fran Hodgkins
Illustrated by True Kelley
From the beginning of rational human thought, people have been looking for a way to fly like the birds. Learn how humans finally took flight as we follow the progression of flying inventions and technology from the first theory of gravity to the historic flight of the Wright Brothers. With scientific explanations of air, gravity, lift, drag, and air flow, readers can learn in one short book what it took humanity thousands of years (and many failed experiments) to discover: it takes wings (and an engine) to fly. The simple written language manages to convey the key points about the history of flying, making this a beneficial book for even very young children who have a love for airplanes and/or the laws of physics. Child-like illustrations bring to life the pursuit of flight, providing drawings of early attempted aircraft that look quite silly to the modern eye, as well as examples of the modern airplane types that are more familiar to the current reader. A fun and educational resource. Includes fun facts and a do-it-yourself paper airplane experiment. 2007, Collins/HarperCollins, $15.99. Ages 5 to 9. Reviewer: Carly Reagan (Children's Literature).
Since the 60s, Franklin Branley’s “Let’s Read and Find Out” books have offered clear explanations about a wide variety of science topics, written at a level appropriate for young children. Others have taken over the writing and illustrations but they maintain the clarity and accuracy of the series. In this case the history of aviation is combined with an explanation of key scientific principles and processes. At the end of the book there are suggestions about how to make a paper airplane to explore the principles for yourself. Many primary age children will be able to read the text for themselves. But it is the full color illustrations and diagrams that offer the real key to understanding such forces as gravity, drag, lift, and the function of engines and propellers. The many children who love informational books may want to have this book in their home library as well as a classroom resource. “Let’s Read and Find Out,” Stage 2. 2007, HarperCollins, $4.99. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Mary Hynes-Berry (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780060295585
ISBN: 0060295589
ISBN: 9780064452212
ISBN: 0064452212
Paper Astronaut: The Paper Spacecraft Mission Manual
Juliette Cezzar
For those intrigued by space and who also like hands-on activities this book is a real find. The text is dense and it is written in a small font on black paper (a reverse which is actually not easy on the eyes). The is an excellent background for the many beautiful and informative illustrations and photographs. The book opens with an introduction by Buzz Aldrin who recaps the major vehicles and approaches in space flight history and who is very much in favor of putting humans on Mars. These milestones and the vehicles in the various space programs are presented. Readers learn how spacecraft work and then are introduced to 20 rockets, shuttles and satellites. The format gives its name country of origin, dimension, factual information and an illustration which in some cases are fantastic photographs. There are more than 100 photographs in the book which include some from deep space probes and the Hubble Telescope. Cezzar’s goal is to provide models of each spacecraft that represented a new physical or informational frontier. She notes that “…the intense competition between the two states [United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics] which started with the launch of Sputnik, propelled a no-holds-barred commitment of intellectual, technical and financial resources.” To achieve her purpose, she looks at the space program and recaps the major events through the illustrations and descriptions and the detailed models. As for the history she harkens back to President Kennedy’s famous speech before Congress to land a man on the Moon and bring him back. Today other nations such as China and India are active in the space arena and most of the space programs involve international cooperation. The closing paragraph of Cezzar’s preface summarizes what she wants reads to take away from this book “…[it should] serve as a point of contemplation for how these machines came about, dreams about deep space, the power of making things, and the pleasure and satisfaction that comes with building models. The building of these 20 models will require skill and patience and some prior experience building paper models. The book will have great appeal to adult hobbyists as well a older students. 2009, Universe, Ages 12 up, $27.50. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children’s Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7893-1881-7
Phineas L. MacGuire--Blasts Off !
Frances O'Roark Dowell
Illustrated by Preston McDaniels
Meet Phineas L. MacGuire, probably the best fourth-grade scientist in all of Woodbrook Elementary School. He is an expert in all molds and fungi, and he is the slime mold genius of the universe. He is an expert on volcanoes and other things that explode, as well as bug identification. He is a potential scientific genius in astronomy--if he can earn enough money to pay for Space Camp registration and a round-trip plane ticket. But how can a nine-year-old come up with $799 (that’s just for the week at camp) in five months? What he needs is a job--any job! Serendipitously, his approximately eight-thousand-year-old neighbor must hire someone to walk her dog, an oversized slobbery yellow Labrador retriever named Lemon Drop. Dog slobber? Ewwwwwww.... But, naturally, Phineas’s scientific curiosity kicks in. He wonders why dogs slobber so much, “what’s up with their saliva glands?” Finding the answer leads to the most unusual (and, yes, a bit gross) science fair project that three friends have ever collaborated on. This third book from “The Highly Scientific Notebooks of Phineas L. MacGuire” series is a delight. Many black-and-white illustrations, large print and an engaging story make the book an excellent choice for reluctant readers. 2008, Antheneum books for Young Readers/Simon & Schuster, $16.99. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Anita Barnes Lowen (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781416926894
ISBN: 1416926895
Rockets
Ron Miller
The Space Innovations series explains both the science and engineering necessary for the progress humans have made in the field and thus far and where we hope to explore in the future. The book's object is to tell "the story of rockets, from their humble beginning as toys one thousand years ago to their initiation as fearsome weapons of war." The book includes seven chapters, a useful glossary, sources of additional information about rockets, and an index. The chapters are crowded with photographs and illustrations of rockets and those who made them. The text is clear and understandable. A section in one chapter presents simple experiments that young readers can try that illustrate some basic rocket principles. The chapters have numerous sidebars that add useful information. For example, one sidebar discusses how the multistage rocket functions, complete with excellent illustrations. This is an attractive book, with a striking cover of a rocket preparing for a night launch. It would be a good supplement for middle school science lessons. It might even spark an interest in a budding space scientist. Grades 6-8. 2008, Lerner Publications, 112p, $31.93. Ages 11 to 14. Reviewer: Donald Logsdon Jr. (National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)).
ISBN: 9780822571537
ISBN: 0822571536
What Scientists Actually Do
Joan Horvath
Illustrations by Nichole S. Wong
With a foreword by Greg Bear
Before becoming a consultant, Joan Horvath was a rocket scientist at the CIT Jet Propulsion Laboratory, working on spacecraft. She intends this book for teachers, students, and the general public, explaining in simple terms the work of a wide variety of scientists, enlivening her readable text with interviews. She laments the “help” of amateurs who told the public that the Hale-Bopp comet was being followed by an alien craft (actually a distant star), leading to the mass suicide of 49 Heaven’s Gate cultists. She urges the public to rely on the work of real scientists and covers their efforts in fields such as astronomy, chemistry, robotics, climatology, evolution, and polar exploration. She explains how scientists think and how they develop theories and devise experiments. She also decries the role of mass media, which frequently gets things wrong. Her book will encourage students to become engineers and scientists by making their work clear and exciting. Category: Science. KLIATT Codes: JSA--Recommended for junior and senior high school students, advanced students, and adults. 2008, Stargazer Publishing, 192p. illus., $16.95. Ages 12 to adult. Reviewer: Janet Julian (KLIATT Review, July 2008 (Vol. 42, No. 4)).
ISBN: 9781933277080
ISBN: 1933277084
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Added 09/28/09
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