Motion, magnets and more The big book of primary physical science

This primer tackles the big ideas of physical science by solving everyday mysteries. Four broad categories of physical science are explored: materials, structures, states of matter, and forces of motion. Remaining true to the scientific method, each topic is presented in its most basic form as a set of relatable observations, followed by brief scientific explanations, and directions for an experimental activity to prove the concept at hand. Mason's effective instructions use understandable examples from everyday life to explain abstract ideas: to illustrate changes in the state of matter, she discusses marshmallows melting in hot chocolate and fizz in a can of soda. Davila's ebullient illustrations make the lessons even more cogent. Materials needed for the experiments are easily acquired staples in every grade-school classroom and require minimal preparation and setup. More detailed methodological notes specifically for adults are included as an appendix. A great resource for primary-science teachers.--Anderson, Erin Copyright 2010 Booklist

Mason has crafted what could easily be adopted by primary classrooms as their sole physical-science textbook.It is divided into four chapters that start readers off with the easy and familiar and work up to some larger science concepts, introducing and defining proper vocabulary along the way. "Touch It!" has readers exploring the materials that surround themtheir composition, texture, mass and properties. In "Build It!,"readers learn about various structures: their uses, how they are joined and how they can be strengthened. "Change It!"teaches children about matter and its states, while the final chapter, "Move It!," focuses on forces, motion, gravity and friction. Short sentences, simple vocabulary and only a few paragraphs per page make this accessible for even the youngest of science explorers, while the 19 activities scattered throughout will deepen their understanding and hold their focus. Backmatter is aimed at parents and teachers and features a paragraph of ideas corresponding to each spread of text so that the knowledge can be extended. A table of contents and index are also included. Dvila's charming digital illustrations depict rosy, round-faced multiethnic children in a variety of settings exploring the world around them. Bright colors and the amusing asides of anthropomorphic animals are sure to keep readers' interest.Gathering in one place the physical-science concepts typically presented to primary children, this is ideal for the youngest scientists and explorers, a worthy addition to school and library collections.(Nonfiction. 4-7)]] Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.