The Magic School Bus Inside the Earth

This book does foster development of processes over the course of the storyline. There are elements such as the engagement that could be used even in your own classroom.

Author: Joanna Cole
Illustrator: Bruce Degen
Year Published: 1997
ISBN: 0-590-40760-0

Summary

The kids in Ms. Frizzle's class have been studying animals' homes. There's a beehive, a wasps's nest, an ant farm, even a beaver lodge, right in the classroom. It's a relief when the Friz announces, "Today we start something new." They are going to study earth science.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

This book does foster development of processes over the course of the storyline. There are elements such as the engagement that could be used even in your own classroom.

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

This book provides many opportunities for students to ask and answer their own questions. There are even some illustrations that would help students foster a better understand of the topic and even answer their personal questions.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

The book encourages students to think of themselves and learn in a deeper way.

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

The subject that is talked about in the story is addressed in an age appropriate way. The author uses language the student would understand and connect with.

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

The content of the book is based on scientific principles and is accurately described in the storyline. the story is fictionalized, but the author's facts about earth science remain true.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

There is a distinction between fact and fiction in the book. Students would be able to follow along with the fictional aspect of the book, while still understanding the factual information being taught.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are fun and vibrant. I believe the illustrations can be used as a tool for students to understand the story better.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

The book is written at the level of a 1st to 5th grader. There are different parts of the story that are aimed for the upper grades, but can be easily explained to a lower grade level student.

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

There are students int he story from different cultural backgrounds and are not stereotyped in any way. I do think there could be a bit more use of diverse students from different parts of the world, but the illustrations do include some differences.

Is the book free from gender bias?

The book is free of gender bias, especially considering that Ms. Frizzle is a construction worker and take son other jobs that are typically seen as male dominate in the real world.

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

The book does show an association between science and other subject. However, I think it could be more closely associated, but as a teacher you would just have to stretch your thinking to pull from the book more.

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

There is a positive attitude toward science and technology throughout the story.

Science Topics

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