A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars

There is no real development of processes in this text. There are some scientific facts discussed about our world and it's place in space, but there is no scientific process incorporated. However, this could be used for an introduction to a topic of different scientific processes; including, the study of planets and how time varies on each.

Author: Seth Fishman
Illustrator: Isabel Greenberg
Year Published: 2017
ISBN: 978-0-06-245578-9

Summary

This book focuses on all of the numbers that surround us, especially in space. Our life is measured by numbers and this text chronicles just how big those numbers can get! The book also discusses how these numbers relate to the planet around us. Since this text is focused on different numerical values and our natural world it allows for an integration between Math and Science.

Evaluation

Appropriateness: High
Authority: Medium
Accuracy: High
Liteary Artistry: Medium
Appearance: High

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Does the book provide an opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions?

Yes, since time and the passing of time and numbers are concepts familiar to students, I can foresee them asking questions throughout the text. The numbers in this text are massive, so I can see students wanting to know more about the numbers mentioned as well as how Earth's numbers vary from other planets.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Since the information is presented as factual statements, there is not much inquiry encouraged from the text itself. I think teachers would have to promote any inquiry through guided questions based on what they want students to take away from this text.

Is the science topic addressed in ways that are appropriate to the lesson?

Since the book is talking about Earth specifically, and the different features on Earth and how they relate to the numbers surrounding us, I think the lesson would have to be very specific. However, I think the information presented is appropriate and easy for students to understand.

Is the content based on sound scientific principles? Is it accurate?

Yes. This text is accurate in its explanation of scientific principles. The text does not go into great detail on all principles (i.e. gravity), but it does do a nice job summarizing which I believe makes it appropriate for the elementary grade levels.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

This book is a non-fiction informational text and there is no confusion between what is real and what is false. Since the text addresses abstract concepts such as space, it lets the readers know whenever there is an estimate of any information.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are clear. Since the illustrations are representing Earth and space, I am not sure if they are entirely scientifically accurate, but it is clear what they are trying to represent and there is no confusion about what is being drawn.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

I can see my 2nd grade students enjoying this book as well as anywhere up to 5th grade. This topic is appropriate for these grade levels, but I wouldn't go any younger just because the numbers are so huge that it would be hard for young students to conceptualize large numbers when they are still learning to manipulate single digit numbers.

Is there a multicultural component? Is it free from stereotyping?

Yes, this book represents different genders, races, ethnicities, ways of life, etc. There is no stereotyping. Each child illustrated is diverse.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes. There are equal representations of both boys and girls.

Does the book show the close association between science and other disciplines?

Yes. This text could easily be integrated with Math since it discusses numbers as well as scientific phenomena.

Does the book present a positive attitude toward science and technology?

Yes. This text highlights just how interesting and large our solar system is. The text is presented in an encouraging and enthusiastic way.

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Maximum Suggested Grade Level