Sick Simon

Yes, this book shows how Simon was the only one who was sick but shows the process of how the germs were spread to those around him and how they caused them to be sick, as well.

• Author: Dan Krall
• Illustrator: Dan Krall
• Year Published: 2015
• ISBN: 978-1442490970

Science Topics

• Life Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• 1st Grade

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 3rd Grade

Summary

Sick Simon learns how to be health-conscious during cold and flu season in this clever picture book

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes, this book shows how Simon was the only one who was sick but shows the process of how the germs were spread to those around him and how they caused them to be sick, as well.

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

Yes, the book does not tell right away how the germs were spread by Simon. Students could infer that germs were being spread but it gives enough space for students to question and figure it out before it is introduced in the book.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Yes, the same as the previous question-- the dilemma is introduced before the cause or the solution, which allows students to think for themselves before being given these things.

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

Yes, the lesson is given in a real world context that most students could relate to. I'm sure most students have had an incident where they were really excited for something but were sick. This story does a good job of illustrating why it may be best for students to stay home in these situations.

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

Yes-- it introduces different types of germs like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. It also shows that these germs can be spread through contact. However, it's not completely accurate in that some germs are not airborne and cannot be spread as easily.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

No-- Although the information is accurate, some students could be left wondering whether germs really talk or not. However, I believe that most students are able to deduce this.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

No-- they are overly animated in a way that does not necessarily seem realistic. The germs are magnified and much bigger than they are in real life and are given facial features.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

No-- not for my placement students but it could be good for my tutoring students at Metz.

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

There are different characters that are drawn but there is no explicit multicultural component. It is free from stereotyping as it does not really focus on any type of cultural component.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes

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

Yes-- there is a real world application of how students should take care of themselves when they are sick as well as how they should act around others that may be sick.

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

Yes and no-- it encourages students to take care of themselves and to be cautious when they or others are sick. It, however, also teaches that germs are a bad thing and can carry nasty consequences.