The Magic School Bus: Flies from the Nest

Yes, this book fosters development of processes as it provides all of the elements of the scientific process.

Author: Joanna Cole
Illustrator: Carolyn Bracken
Year Published: 2004
ISBN: 0-439-56991-5

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

1st Grade

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

4th Grade

Summary

Ms. Frizzle's class is learning about birds, so it's time for a field trip. The kids get on the Magic School Bus and pay a visit to a real robin's nest. But when Carlos gets too close for comfort, his curiosity becomes a learning opportunity for all.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes, this book fosters development of processes as it provides all of the elements of the scientific process.

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

Yes, this book provides many opportunities for students to ask and answer their own questions, while also including questions within the book for the students to answer. The students are able to explore their questions in depth through the journey in the book.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Yes, this book encourages children to think for themselves.

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

Yes, the scientific topic addressed in the book are appropriate to lessons. The information is engaging yet informative and engaging. Also, the information is presented at a level that is appropriate for elementary students.

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

Yes, the content is based off of scientific principles and it is pretty much accurate. The facts stated are correct; however, the scale of humans to the birds and their nest is exaggerated.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

No, the book does not distinguish between fact and fiction. First, the illustrations are drawn and are not real images of the real world and objects. Also, the students fly a school bus in a bird’s nest which is not accurate in real life. In addition, the students are the same size as the birds. It seems as though this book is written and drawn for entertainment and engagement and not for accuracy.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are clear; however, they are not accurate or drawn to scale.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes, this book is written at a level for my students. This book is written for younger elementary grades; however, the information can be applied to any elementary grade level.

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

Yes, there is a multicultural component in this book as it includes images of diverse classroom. In addition, there are a variety of thoughts and opinions from all of the students and teachers which provided opportunities for all students to be engaged.

Is the book free from gender bias?

This book is not fully free from gender bias as a boy goes into the nest with the birds and not a girl, but other than that there aren’t any other major gender stereotypes.

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

This book shows an association between science and art as the children draw what they had seen and learned during their field trip.

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

Yes, this book presents a positive attitude towards science and is engaging and informative for students.