There Is No Place Like Space: All About Our Solar System

Yes because readers are able to learn about many aspects of our solar system through in depth exploration, since space can be a challenging topic to present.

• Author: Tish Rabe
• Illustrator: Aristides Ruiz
• Year Published: 1999
• ISBN: 978-0679891154

Science Topics

• Space Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• Kindergarten

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 4th Grade

Summary

Based off the Dr. Seuss book, The Cat in the Hat, this book depicts The Cat in the Hat taking children on a journey throughout space. They visit different planets, including the sun and the moon, giving facts about each part of the solar system.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes because readers are able to learn about many aspects of our solar system through in depth exploration, since space can be a challenging topic to present.

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

The book offers several opportunities for the audience to guess about different aspects of space and follow up by checking their predictions. If they are wondering about a specific fact, they can go back through the book and look up the facts.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

The book openly encourages children to explore space on their own, through research and observation. They are able to think for themselves about the facts presented, regarding different aspects of space.

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

The topic of space is addressed by exploring each planet, which is a great way to get kids to feel eager about space. They are able to take a journey with the characters in the book and be presented with space facts in an engaging way that relates back to their own personal experiences.

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

All the principles taught in the book appear to be accurate because the book reflects the fact that Pluto is not considered a planet anymore. It also gives accurate representations of the sizes of objects in our solar system in a way that young children can comprehend. This is achieved through making comparisons with objects that children are familiar with.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

Although the book is presented through characters that are obviously fiction, there is a major distinction between the facts being presented and the fictional additions to the story that make it fun and engaging for the reader.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are mostly based on fiction, but they have some accuracy. The purpose of the illustrations are to draw in young readers, so the objects in the solar system are presented as a cartoon. The illustrations appeal to a young audience, therefore they are displayed as colorful and exaggerated.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

The book is definitely written at a level appropriate for young students because it presents the information in a rhyme, which is easily understandable to a lower elementary level.

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

There is no multicultural component to the book because there really is no need for one on this topic. It seems to be free from stereotyping, in terms of culture and can be used with students of all cultural backgrounds.

Is the book free from gender bias?

It is free from gender bias because the characters are a boy and girl. There is really no distinction between the characters that is worth noting.

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

There is not another discipline addressed in the book. Literature can be associated with it because of the use of rhyme to present the facts of space. Technology is incorporated with a discussion of different mechanisms used to explore the solar system.

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

This book definitely presents science in a positive and exciting manner. It also includes types of technology that are used in the exploration of space, that will peak a child's interest and make them eager to learn more. Since something new is explored on each page, it makes it fun for the child to figure out what comes next.