Natural World

The book does foster the development of processes. Each page is about a different scientific anomaly, delving deep into the why behind each. It gives a full explanation for why things happen and how.

Author: Amanda Wood and Mike Jolley
Illustrator: Owen Dawey
Year Published: 2016
ISBN: 978-1-84780-782-3

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

1st Grade

Summary

This expository science text offers up facts about many different creatures within the natural world. Made up of colorful visuals and easy to read text, this book has the answers to many scientific questions posed by children and even adults.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

The book does foster the development of processes. Each page is about a different scientific anomaly, delving deep into the why behind each. It gives a full explanation for why things happen and how.

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

The book does provide this opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions. Diagrams and pictures make up a large portion of the page, therefore kids may be able to ask questions before reading the text. It is a great book for kids to be able to let their natural wonderings go.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

I would not say that children have as much of a chance to think for themselves because this book is more of "encyclopedia" style. This is not to say that they do not learn from it though. It does not offer many challenge yourself type of questions to the reader.

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

This book offers ways that are very appropriate in addressing science topics. It is so well put together and represented. I think that kids would be drawn to this book and not feel overwhelmed by it.

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

The content is based on sound scientific principles. It covers everything from seeds to animals to seasons. The information is very accurate and put in a way that is easy to understand.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

The book does distinguish fact from fiction because it is an expository text. It is solely composed of non-fiction texts. There is no component of fiction in this text.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are very clear, but also very animated. Despite them being animated they are still very drawn to scale, etc. These illustrations are easy to understand and are clear in what they represent.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

The book is written at the level of my students. It covers a lot of science fact, but at an easy level. I would use this with children as little as kindergarten.

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

This book does not contain any of that because it is about science processes and concepts. It does not talk about any specific scientists or races. Therefore, it also contains no stereotyping.

Is the book free from gender bias?

The book also does not contain any gender bias. There is not a space for that in this type of book. It is purely informational.

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

This book does not show the association between science and other disciplines. It is composed of only facts. There is no plot, storyline, etc.

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

I would say that this book does present a positive attitude toward science and technology. It presents the information in such a creative and fun way, that I think children would be really happy to read it. It would make learning really fun for kids.