The Science of Baseball

Author: David L. Dreier
Illustrator: Maurizio Campidelli
Year Published: 2016
ISBN: 978 1-4914-6083-2

Summary

This is a graphic novel about a father and a son who are at a baseball game. The Dad makes a comment about science and baseball and the son asks more. The Dad takes the son on a journey to see how science is used in a huge variety of ways in baseball.

Evaluation

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

Questions

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

Not necessarily. The characters in the book as a lot of questions, but they are immediately answered. I think the book could cause a student to raise more questions, and go on their own to look into those questions, but the book doesn't explicitly encourage student centered inquiry.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

No, the answers to how science is used in baseball is explicitly in the book.

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

Yes. I think this is a super interesting way to learn about specific aspects of baseball and is appropriate for a science lesson in many different content areas.

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

Yes, it is very accurate and encompasses a huge variety of science. It shows how different aspects of science all work together.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

Yes

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

Yes. Because it is a graphic novel, the pictures add a great deal to the writing and help to further emphasize the science explained in the writing.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes. My students are in fourth grade and I think would enjoy this. They definitely would need some teaching to go alongside them as they read it, and a space to discuss what they are learning, but I think it is a great introduction to a lot of different content topics.

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

Yes. The two main characters are African American. The people they meet along the way represent many different cultures.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes. They also portray woman as baseball players.

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

Yes. The whole book is about this and does a great job of showing how baseball could not happen without science.

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

Yes!! It science is very relevant in this story and is viewed as exciting, engaging, and purposeful.

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Maximum Suggested Grade Level