Mad Margaret Experiments with the Scientific Method

Yes, this book fosters the development of processes. By explicitly teaching the scientific method through simple steps, the child will easily be able to follow along.

• Author: Eric Braun
• Illustrator: Robin Boyden
• Year Published: 2013
• ISBN: 978-1-4048-7373-5

Science Topics

• Life Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• 2nd Grade

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 3rd Grade

Summary

This book introduces the scientific method through an investigation to find out why Jasper is suddenly having a sneezing problem. Mad Margaret explores the issue by going through five different steps of the scientific method, to finally find the answer to why Jasper sneezes every time he goes to his friend's house.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes, this book fosters the development of processes. By explicitly teaching the scientific method through simple steps, the child will easily be able to follow along.

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

Yes, this book provides an opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions. The book does this by splitting up the sections of the book by each step of the scientific method and allowing the child to make predictions along with the characters in the book.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Yes, the book encourages children to think for themselves by allowing them to make their own predictions throughout the book to figure out the mystery as to why Jasper is sneezing.

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

If the lesson is about the scientific method, this book is a great supplement since it goes step-by-step through the method.

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

The content is accurate and is based on sound scientific principles: the scientific method.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

This book does not necessarily distinguish between fact and fiction. The story itself is fictional, yet the process that the characters go through is factual.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are clear and accurate.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

For second and third grade students, this book is definitely written at their level. For students younger than this grade level range, this book may be a bit complex to read. Older students may enjoy reading this book, however it may be too easy for them to read.

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

The characters in the book are from all different kinds of backgrounds and are free from stereotyping. Children who engage in this book may use it as a mirror since they too can realize that anyone can be a scientist.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes, this book is free from gender bias. It addresses the issue of most scientists being male, since the main character/scientist in the book is female.

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

This book shows an association towards language arts when the characters are writing in their notebooks to record observations in the experimentation. Other than that, no other disciplines are present.

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

This book presents a positive attitude toward science and technology.