Oscar and the Moth

Yes, because Oscar asked questions that continuously got more and more specific to avoid creating misconceptions about light and dark.It also aiding in getting rid of possible misconceptions that students may already have.

• Author: Geoff Waring
• Year Published: 2006
• ISBN: 978-0-7636-4031-6

Science Topics

• Earth Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• Prekindergarten

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 1st Grade

Summary

"Oscar is a curious kitten. One eventing as he watches the sunset, he is full of questions about light and dark. Luckily, Moth knows the answers! With the help of his friend, Oscar finds out where light comes from, how shadows are made, and why darkness comes at night."

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes, because Oscar asked questions that continuously got more and more specific to avoid creating misconceptions about light and dark.It also aiding in getting rid of possible misconceptions that students may already have.

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

Yes, if you pause appropriately during read aloud. Moth answers Oscar's questions soon after. Give students a chance to think and create their own thoughts on what the answer may be.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Yes, if you pause appropriately during read aloud. Moth answers Oscar's questions soon after. Give students a chance to think and create their own thoughts on what the answer may be.

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

Yes. It uses key words and explains terms appropriately. It explains aspects about both light and dark and provides examples from all over the world.

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

Yes. It is accurate and contains footnotes to clarify terms like 'sun' and 'star,' and that the sun is a star. It also has a glossary at the back with pictures, and an index of key words. The glossary has pictures for examples.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

It was a cat talking to an all-knowing moth about Earth science, but they kept facts about light and dark accurate. The other examples were also factual and had pictures. The glossary was factual and was a quick summary of facts found throughout the book.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

Yes. It was a talking cat and moth, but the size of the photos were well done. There are pictures of things they mention in the background (airplanes, fireflies, lamps). Light and dark are emphasized to be easily distinguished.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

The back of the book suggests reading for ages 4+. We agree that this age would be appropriate. Teachers should also definitely consider this for a read aloud.

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

It is neutral. It is nonfiction and does not mention when, where, or any specifics about the animals providing us information. The characters are based off the author's cat.

Is the book free from gender bias?

The cat is named Oscar, but it is not clear what Oscar's gender is. Moth does not have a mentioned gender. The moth's name is Moth. No stereotyping and no biases.

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

It is possible to integrate with other subjects, but there is not a clear, specific association between science and another discipline. One suggestion is to associate this book with social studies and comparing and contrasting.

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

Yes. No mention of technology. "Oscar thinks light and dark are great! Don't you?" Learning is fun!  Oscar was very curious and excited to learn from Moth. Moth was eager to share his knowledge and learn together!