In the Garden: Who’s Been Here?

This book allows students to develop skills of scientific processes such as predicting and observing.

• Author: Lindsay Barrett George
• Year Published: 2006
• ISBN: 0-06-078762-7

Science Topics

• Life Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• 1st Grade

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 5th Grade

Summary

This book discusses the different animals and insects that you may find in a garden including chipmunks, crows, deer mice, cottontail rabbits, the tomato hornworm, woodchucks, moles, and slugs. It depicts different evidence that may be found when observing these animals in a garden from the viewpoint of two young children exploring their garden.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

This book allows students to develop skills of scientific processes such as predicting and observing.

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

Yes, this book has many opportunities for students to ask questions.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Yes, students will be making predictions.

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

Yes, the book covers different species of animals in an authentic way.

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

Yes, the short descriptions of each species of animals at the end of the book that are accurate.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

Yes, this book has a fictional element but the facts are all true.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

Illustrations are very large and allow students to know right away what the book is talking about.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes, this book has very easy language for elementary students.

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

There are no multicultural components to this book and there are no stereotypes.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes, the book depicts a young boy and a young girl both exploring in their garden together.

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

This book doesn't go into much detail other than exploring science concepts.

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

Yes, the characters in the story are excited about learning of the different species of animals.