Planets

Yes, the book allows for curious kids to read longer sentences and more complex vocabulary. As an aid, new scientific vocabulary are defined on the page, and photographs provide much needed visuals. For kids who are reading this book independently, it allows them to connect what they know about space to real-life and come to a realization about why things are the way they are on Earth.

Author: Elizabeth Carney
Illustrator: YAY! Design
Year Published: 2012
ISBN: 978-0-545-50022-7

Summary

National Geographic Kids has prepared a short, informational book that provides younger children a chance to learn more about the planets, stars, and other interesting facts about outer space. From the planet Mercury to Neptune, there are facts and information about each of the planets and their moons. As a child reads the book, he or she can also take a look at real-life images from NASA. Lastly, a quiz for parents is provided at the end, and it challenges the child to see if they have learned enough to stump their parent's knowledge of planets.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

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

Yes, throughout the book, there are "Space Clues" given, which define new scientific terms for the children. In addition, there are labels with the photographs and visual aids, which also helps the children answer questions they might have. As they learn fun and cool facts about each of the planets, children can ask questions even beyond what is provided.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

The book encourages children to think for themselves by providing real-life images from NASA that support learning and allow children to compare each of the planets in the solar system. In addition, it provides knowledge that scientists are still in the process of learning more about the planets and there are accomplishments yet to be made.

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

The science topic (space science) in this book is addressed in the most appropriate ways. There are facts provided that are important for children to know about the planets, and it provides even beyond what seems necessary. The visuals are also eye-catching for the audience, making it easy to pay attention to the text, too.

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

Yes, I would say this book is accurate because it is supported with information and images from a much credible source, NASA and National Geographic Kids. The scientific information is up to date, also. It shows Pluto, and others, as dwarf planets, and it provides recent information about research for the kids to know.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

Throughout this book, I wouldn't say there is much fiction at all. It is full of interesting facts that the children would love to learn more about. The images are full of facts, and they accompany the words from beginning to end. Not only do the children get to learn more about the planets, they also get to observe real-life images from outer space that they may not have been exposed to before.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The pictures of the planets and other space objects in this book do not necessarily depict their sizes in proportion to one another. However, there are certain images that focus on doing this, using images to illustrate the real-life size relationships. In addition, some of the images, like the images of Neptune, are the best ones provided by NASA.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

The book is a reading level 2, meaning it could be a little on the easier side for students in the third grade. However, for students who are still on the edge of reading second and third grade books, this book seemed like a perfect read. The sentences are not too easy, and they still provide a challenge with its new scientific terms and information.

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

I couldn't find a multicultural component of this book, but I also couldn't find any stereotyping. It was full of informational things, so there wasn't really any space to find limiting aspects to the text. As it described scientists, it seemed to give the vibe that anyone could accomplish anything.

Is the book free from gender bias?

The book is free from gender bias because it provides information that both girls and boys could be equally interested in. Also, gender was not pointed out throughout the reading. Scientists are referred to as "they," and only the accomplishments of a few are mentioned in the book.

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

This book provided some connections between science and other disciplines. For instance, it provided facts about the planets, including numbers and comparisons that calls for mathematical calculations. Also, the book provides clarification of new vocabulary and terms, allowing science to be connected to the literary disciplines, too.

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

The book presents a positive attitude toward science and technology. It includes information in the back pages about what scientists are doing today to explore space even further, and it even provides information about the tools and equipment being used. The question posed at the end is, "What will we learn next?" which seems to leave an excited, mysterious feel for the child reading the book.

Science Topics

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