My Mother Talks To Trees

Yes, the girl and her mother explore and observe trees. Observation is a process skill.

Author: Gove, Doris
Illustrator: Mallory, Marilynn H.
Year Published: 2005
ISBN: 1561453366

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Kindergarten

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

3rd Grade

Summary

Laura and her mother go on a walk and notice all the details and stories of all the trees that they pass.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes, the girl and her mother explore and observe trees. Observation is a process skill.

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

Yes, the girl is inquisitive which prompts questions from the audience as well. Specific questions can be answered at the end of the book which includes facts about trees.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

In a way this book encourages thinking for themselves. I think that it encourages curiosity and exploration, and makes children want to go outside and take a closer look at trees.

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

Yes, this book includes a fictional story and also facts about trees, so it is both fun and informative.

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

Yes, the facts are accurate about the trees, in particular the parts at the end. The scientific principles are sound.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

Yes, while the storyline is fiction, the facts about trees are accurate. There is not a clear line between each, but that doesn't take away from the book.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

Yes, the illustrations are clear and accurate. The drawings are close to what the leaves and bark of the trees look like.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes, the book is written at a level that is appropriate for k-3rd grade. It may not be appropriate for older grades, but would still be a good read aloud.

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

The girl and her mother are white, so it is not the most diverse book out there. But the book is free from stereotypes.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes, the book is from the perspective of two women so I think that shows that both women and men can be interested in scientific and nature elements such as trees.

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

Yes, because the book could be read aloud and supported by other language arts elements such as prediction, inferring, and foreshadowing, the topic of trees can be related to science.

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

Yes, the book fosters a love of nature and the attitude is very positive.