Because of an Acorn

I believe this book could foster observation, inferences, and predictions. Since this book has very few words it creates a space for students to infer/predict what is going on in the pictures using their own knowledge of the world as well as their observations of the text and illustrations. I think this book could be used in the beginning stages of process-based inquiry as an introduction to the topic.

Author: Lola M. Schaefer, Adam Schaefer
Illustrator: Frann Preston-Gannon
Year Published: 2016
ISBN: 948-1-4521-1242-8

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Prekindergarten

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

4th Grade

Summary

"Because of an Acorn" connects layers of an ecosystem using few words but many pictures. The pictures take you through the importance of each member of the ecosystem and the chain reaction that is created. At the end of the book, there is a detailed description of the vocabulary used in the text along with the author's purpose for the book.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

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

Yes, I feel this book provides the opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions. With limited text students can inquire into meaning by finding answers in the pictures or in the description in the back of the book. This book is a great way to star conversation and get students asking questions with the opportunity to find their answers in the text or illustrations

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

While the concept of an ecosystem is pretty straight-forward, this book allows children to think in depth about how each individual connects and contributes to the entire community. This could illicit inquiry into other types of ecosystems. Again, since the book has few words, students are able to construct meaning using the illustrations.

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

Yes, ecosystems are addressed in a way that would be appropriate for a lesson on ecosystems. I think this book is a good starting place to get kids thinking about what happens within ecosystems, who contributes, and how they work. The in depth description in the back of the book can also address unanswered questions.

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

Yes, the content is based on sound specific principals and is accurate. This book addresses a specific ecosystem and then goes into depth as to what an ecosystem is. The information is accurate and covers a common TEKS.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

The book is written to look like fiction but primarily focuses on facts. There are not many specific details but the concept is formed from facts. The detailed description at the end of the book is also formulated on facts.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are simplified to match the minimalistic nature of the text. However, I believe the authors purpose is for readers to gain a better understanding of the concepts through the illustrations since there are so few words. I believe students would be able to use the pictures to gain insight into the meaning of the text.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

I feel as though this book in particular could be used for a variety of levels. Students in younger grades could be introduced to the topic of ecosystems simply using the story and illustrations. Students in older grades could use the description in the back of the book to gain further insight into ecosystems and how they work.

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

Since the book is simply about the ecosystem revolving around an acorn with no humans or cultures involved, there is no multicultural component or stereotyping portrayed in the text.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Since the book is simply about the ecosystem revolving around an acorn with no humans or cultures involved, there is no gender bias portrayed in the text.

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

This text could be connected to SEL or Social Studies by use of a service-learning project. The description at the end of the book discusses how we, as people, can help protect our ecosystems. This information could be used in various ways for the purpose of creating a better world.

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

Yes, this book presents a positive attitude towards science. The text and illustrations are informational, yet light-hearted and the detailed description at the end gives purpose and meaning to the rest of the book as well as promote positive feelings towards ecosystems.