Children's Science Book Database

The Most Magnificent Thing

Yes, this book is great for observing, connecting, inferring, and predicting. A lot of connections can be made between both science and literacy.The Most Magnificent Thing
  • Author: Ashley Spires
  • Year Published: 2014
  • ISBN: 9781554537044

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

Summary

"A little girl has a wonderful idea. With the help of her canine assistant, she is going to make the most magnificent thing! She knows just how it will look. She knows just how it will work. But making the most magnificent thing turns out to be harder than she thinks."

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes, this book is great for observing, connecting, inferring, and predicting. A lot of connections can be made between both science and literacy.

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

Yes, students can ask questions about what is going on in the story and making inferences and predictions on what will happen within in.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Yes, students can make text to self connections and think about things that they would do if they were in the same situation as the main character.

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

Yes, it is a great opener to engineering processes and how things work.

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

Somewhat, students can have a lesson built off of this book that has to do with engineering processes, kind of like our catapult STEM lesson.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

Not exactly, this story is a fiction story, but it can be one that is relatable for students.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

Yes, they are really clear and accurate, being a picture book. It isn't an actual science book though.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes, I feel like this would be a great book for my students that can be a great opener for a lesson.

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

Absolutely! The main character is a girl, which already moves away from the stereotype of what a "scientist" or "engineer" is.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes! As stated above, the main character is a girl.

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

Yes, it shows connections between science as well as life lessons on patience and perseverance.

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

Yes! The main character enjoys what she is doing and she never gives up.