The Perfect Tail

The book does not foster the development of any of the scientific processes. It does not formally present any scientific content, and portrays animals with humanistic characteristics.

• Author: Mie Araki
• Illustrator: Mie Araki
• Year Published: 2004
• ISBN: 0811842665

Science Topics

• Life Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• 3rd Grade

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 5th Grade

Summary

Fred isn't satisfied with his tail and gets inspiration from his friends' tails. He learns with help from Lulu that his tail is perfect just the way it is.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

The book does not foster the development of any of the scientific processes. It does not formally present any scientific content, and portrays animals with humanistic characteristics.

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

The text does not invite readers to pose questions or provide answers to questions. It allows for predictions, but more in a literary context than a scientific context.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

The text does not encourage readers to think critically about any scientific content. The story teaches morals, but does not cover any scientific content.

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

There was no scientific content addressed, and animals are inaccurately portrayed with humanistic characteristics.

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

There was no scientific content addressed, and animals are inaccurately portrayed with humanistic characteristics.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

The book does not explicitly distinguish between fact and fiction; however, it is made clear that this book is fiction based off of the characters in the story. The cartoonish illustrations also demonstrate the idea that it is fiction.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are very cartoonish and contribute to the idea that this book is fiction. They follow the story well, but do not portray any scientific relevance.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

The text is written at a level that is appropriate for 3rd to 5th grade. Words are not defined, but can be easily defined by using context clues.

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

There is no multicultural component in the book. All of the characters are animals, which is unrealistic and does not contribute to stereotyping.

Is the book free from gender bias?

There is no gender bias in the book. All of the characters are animals, which is unrealistic and does not contribute to gender stereotyping.

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

The book does not portray any scientific content or any other disciplines. It is a fun story with a strong moral, but does not stress any academic disciplines.

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

The book does not portray any scientific content or technology. It is a fun story with a strong moral, but does not stress any academic disciplines or technology.