Children's Science Book Database

Penguins! Strange and wonderful

Yes, the author writes an informational text about penguins: where they live, what they do, what they eat, types of penguins, their habitat, etc. Students are able to build on their previous knowledge as well as building on the knowledge they are learning throughout their experience in reading the book.
  • Author: Laurence Pringle
  • Illustrator: Meryl Henderson
  • Year Published: 2007
  • ISBN: 9781590780909

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

Summary

In 1520, while sailing near the coast of South America, Portuguese explorers saw strange black and white birds that could dive, swim, and leap out of the water. One thing they couldn't do is fly. The explorers called these birds "strange geese." Today we call them penguins.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes, the author writes an informational text about penguins: where they live, what they do, what they eat, types of penguins, their habitat, etc. Students are able to build on their previous knowledge as well as building on the knowledge they are learning throughout their experience in reading the book.

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

Yes, students are able to ask questions about penguins and anything related to them. It is sure that they will find a response directly answering the question or somewhat answering the question, leaving the rest up for inquiry.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Somewhat. Students are given a lot of opportunity o ask questions and to continue wondering and brainstorming about what they want to know about penguins. Once they jump into the book, they are able to live through the experience of a penguin.

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

A lesson about penguins, yes. and habitats.

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

Yes, students can learn about the life cycle of a penguin and its natural habitats and habits.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

Yes, this book is facts because it includes a lot of vocabulary and scientific names for the penguins. It also does not necessarily tell a story of beginning, middle, and end, but takes us through the life of a penguin and its characteristics.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

Yes, the illustrations are very well done. The illustrator used specific traits to draw each of the penguin types and the animals that are associated with penguins.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes

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

Yes

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes

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

Yes, writing and reading. This is a facts book. It also shows geography.

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

Yes, this book is great and i would recommend it to any teacher that has a lesson on penguins, habitats, explorers in the 1500s, or different animals in different parts of geography.