Batman Science: The Real World Science Behind Batman’s Gear

Yes. The book talks about all different experiments and the development of products and the implications of their use under various conditions. It really shows how variables can influence any action. It shows how products need to be tested until you can come to a conclusion. It shows how we can hypothesize about the way a variable will affect a system. It shows that creating or acting on anything is a lot more complicated than just putting two things together and going for it. Everything takes time and a good deal of thought to work out.

• Author: Agneszka Biskup and Tammy Enz
• Year Published: 2014
• ISBN: 978-1-62370-064-5

Science Topics

• Physical Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• 4th Grade

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 8th Grade

Summary

This book takes ideas found within the Batman universe and shows their real life history, construction, and applications.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes. The book talks about all different experiments and the development of products and the implications of their use under various conditions. It really shows how variables can influence any action. It shows how products need to be tested until you can come to a conclusion. It shows how we can hypothesize about the way a variable will affect a system. It shows that creating or acting on anything is a lot more complicated than just putting two things together and going for it. Everything takes time and a good deal of thought to work out.

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

This book definitely prods readers to think about plenty of "what if" situations since it does bring so many variables into play when it's going through each situation. Those variables are changed up as the book goes through each scenario so children can easily transpose those ideas and wonder "what if that idea applies to this concept." It really makes students think and be curious.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Absolutely. For every object, action, or concept that's brought up in this book the author poses multiple ways of looking at approaching each thing. Students can use their imaginations to come up with their own connections to these events. Things are put into Batman perspectives and multiple real world perspectives so connecting it to your own life is only a little step further. 4. Is the science topic addressed in ways that are appropriate to the lesson?

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

This book doesn't talk about one topic but rather a compilation of ideas that involve action and adventure and relate them to the real world from a scientific and engineering perspective. Everything in the book is addressed appropriately. All examples are well thought out and explained thoroughly.

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

Yes. Everything in this book directly relates and discusses scientific principles. Every bit of the discussion is brought about explicitly and professionally while also being relatable. All ideas and concepts brought up are supported by facts and examples.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

Absolutely. This entire book takes what seems like fiction and proves it to be facts and truly applies that to real world situations. It separates fact from fiction and explains why each case is true.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

All pictures directly relate to the text or captions around it. All of the pictures in this book are relevant and work to extend the meaning of the text and provide greater clarity. This book does a great job with providing clear, accurate, relevant pictures.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes. All concepts are explained clearly using language that is neither too basic nor too advanced. The book is engaging and visually appealing. I can easily see the boys in my class fighting over who would get to check this book out of the library next.

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

The book couldn't be much more "Americanized." It's all relating to Batman and soldiers and fighting and weapons and adventure. It's clearly geared towards boys. That being said, I think many girls would still greatly enjoy this book because it is so engaging. I personally wouldn't feel put-off by it as a child. I'd reach for it, but I also liked science and I was an avid reader. It provides the ultimate alpha-male, macho, fighting stereotype full of soldiers and guns and adventure.

Is the book free from gender bias?

The previous question addresses this pretty well. It's completely geared towards boys. The pictures only have males in them, it talks about a male-dominant comic book series, and the colors scream "boy" with their tone. Still, this book could be enjoyed by any student due to its captivating nature.

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

The book relates everything to do with STEM, but not much else. It has a bit of history tied in with some of the examples of weapons and the evolution of the engineering ideas, but it really stays within the realm of STEM.

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

Everything in this book is exciting, engaging, and relates pup culture to science, technology, and engineering. It makes looking at adventure enticing. Everything about this book makes you want to know more about science and everything to do with the scientific process. It makes you want to be hands-on with the world around you.