Global warming is just one factor that will result in changes to the species on Earth. Using many examples of how and why things change, this book explains that all living things have variations and are adapted to their respective niches. These variations, controlled and passed on by genes, are explained by the theory of evolution. This theory was developed as a result of Charles Darwin's synthesis of his observations and collections made during his five-year voyage on the HMS Beagle, with the supporting ideas of Charles Lyell, Thomas Malthus, and others. Evidence supporting Darwin's ideas of natural selection (such as fossils, comparative anatomy, homology, and DNA) is presented, and a brief explanation of Stephen Jay Gould's ideas on punctuated equilibrium is included. The various characteristics and changes throughout the sequential geological eras of Earth history are presented, and the ancestry of humans is depicted with pictures and descriptions of the skulls of fossil hominids. A discussion of how evolution is used to make predictions uses examples such as uncovering useful drugs from the rain forest and understanding the problem of antibiotic resistance. Without forfeiting scientific accuracy, the authors do a splendid job of reducing somewhat complex ideas into a form that young people will be able to understand. Two activities are also included in the book-one on observing variations and adaptations of pets and another on modeling evolution. A lot of fundamental information can be found in the books of the Sci-Hi series. Each would be very useful as a springboard for further research on numerous topics. The series is targeted to students in grades 6-9. Each colorful, 48-page book is enlightening, visually attractive, and easy to read. The authors approach each subject by putting core information into a magazine format with large titles, a variety of fonts, clear introductions, catchy graphics, informative sidebars, and specific examples of the content. Despite their length, there is a lot packed into these high-interest volumes. At the end of each there is a glossary, lists of books and websites for further information, and a comprehensive index. Other features in the various books are timelines, content reviews, and quizzes. Having this series available would provide a good foundation and support the learning of key concepts of the National Science Education Standards for life science. The books would be an engaging and useful resource for a middle school science classroom or school library. -Richard Lord, High School Biology Teacher NSTA 7/30/2009
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Global warming is just one factor that will result in changes to the species on Earth. Using many examples of how and why things change, this book explains that all living things have variations and are adapted to their respective niches. These variations, controlled and passed on by genes, are explained by the theory of evolution. This theory was developed as a result of Charles Darwin's synthesis of his observations and collections made during his five-year voyage on the HMS Beagle, with the supporting ideas of Charles Lyell, Thomas Malthus, and others. Evidence supporting Darwin's ideas of natural selection (such as fossils, comparative anatomy, homology, and DNA) is presented, and a brief explanation of Stephen Jay Gould's ideas on punctuated equilibrium is included. The various characteristics and changes throughout the sequential geological eras of Earth history are presented, and the ancestry of humans is depicted with pictures and descriptions of the skulls of fossil hominids. A discussion of how evolution is used to make predictions uses examples such as uncovering useful drugs from the rain forest and understanding the problem of antibiotic resistance. Without forfeiting scientific accuracy, the authors do a splendid job of reducing somewhat complex ideas into a form that young people will be able to understand. Two activities are also included in the book-one on observing variations and adaptations of pets and another on modeling evolution. A lot of fundamental information can be found in the books of the Sci-Hi series. Each would be very useful as a springboard for further research on numerous topics. The series is targeted to students in grades 6-9. Each colorfu
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Clear language, embedded definitions, and interesting examples illustrate abstract concepts through both text and well-chosen photographs. The authors do not avoid difficult or controversial issues: Changing Life, for example, provides a clear and useful explanation of the theory of evolution, with multiple sources of evidence and a discussion of how it helps scientists to predict the implications of changes to the environment. Science Ethics discusses topics such as global warming and animal research, and their implications for decision-making by scientists, policy makers, and voters. Because so many issues are raised in this book, it will be especially useful as a research starter in both science and social-studies classes. In addition to describing relevant theories and the scientific explanations for observed phenomena, each book also discusses the impact of human activities on the issues discussed, whether the way humans impact ecosystems (Ecology) or how smoking and drinking affect sperm count and the unborn child (Human Reproduction). The main focus, however, is on the scientific concepts rather than applications–for instance, Human Reproduction does not discuss contraception except to note the statistic that "sexually active teenage girls who do not use contraceptives (birth control) have a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year." Each book also includes suggested activities to test ideas as well as a thorough glossary and a Webliography.–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL School Library JournalSeptember 2009
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This book explains the animal kingdoms, classifications, and evolution. It provides information about classification, the method used to group and name animals and other living things, describing Linnaeus’s classification system, explaining how animals are named, and including photographs, charts, and examples. Photographs are great. —Kelly Wadley, Sandy Valley Clark County School District Library Services 1/21/2010
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Describing topics that are both timely and interesting to middle school students, the Sci-Hi series explores science with accessible text and engaging pictures. The authors break complex content it into short chunks that students can read and think about. These sections provide background information on the subject, show flow charts to explain concepts, and introduce key vocabulary. In students' hands, these books provide a great place to start research on a topic or can just be interesting reads. Each book in the series has the essential elements of good informational text. The tables of contents draw students in by framing questions in bubbles; students can then find the answers in the text. Key words are presented in bold type and are defined in the glossaries. Interesting facts are featured in sidebar notes, and students are guided to new information as they read. The images in the books are both current and global in their content. The use of varied text elements, such as diagrams, graphs, and charts are a real plus, presenting information in a variety of ways. The books also contain bibliographies of current books and websites that students can explore if they want more information on the subject. Most people don’t realize that 99% of known species are smaller than bumblebees or that roaches can live for a week without their heads. These facts and many more await the student who digs into this book! Classification is not usually one of a student’s favorite topics, but this book should change things. Although the focus is on animals, the principles of classification are the same for all organisms. Beginning with the need to organize the vast and diverse collection of organisms, the book tells the story of the classification system that originated with Linnaeus. Using humans as an example, the levels of classification are explained, and the usefulness of these levels to demonstrate how closely two species are related is emphasized. The binomial naming system is also described. The use of taxonomic keys to identify animals is accompanied by a key to dinosaurs, allowing students to apply what they have learned. Descriptions and illustrations of the various invertebrate phyla as well as the classes and some of the orders and families of vertebrates are presented in an engaging, age-appropriate fashion with loads of interesting information. The use of classification to trace evolutionary pathways and the use of DNA to confirm relationships among animals are briefly addressed. The book concludes with examples of newly discovered species and how scientists go about classifying them, noting that "most of Earth’s species haven’t even been identified yet." —Richard Lord NSTA9/23/2009
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Clear language, embedded definitions, and interesting examples illustrate abstract concepts through both text and well-chosen photographs. The authors do not avoid difficult or controversial issues: Changing Life, for example, provides a clear and useful explanation of the theory of evolution, with multiple sources of evidence and a discussion of how it helps scientists to predict the implications of changes to the environment. Science Ethics discusses topics such as global warming and animal research, and their implications for decision-making by scientists, policy makers, and voters. Because so many issues are raised in this book, it will be especially useful as a research starter in both science and social-studies classes. In addition to describing relevant theories and the scientific explanations for observed phenomena, each book also discusses the impact of human activities on the issues discussed, whether the way humans impact ecosystems (Ecology) or how smoking and drinking affect sperm count and the unborn child (Human Reproduction). The main focus, however, is on the scientific concepts rather than applications–for instance, Human Reproduction does not discuss contraception except to note the statistic that "sexually active teenage girls who do not use contraceptives (birth control) have a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year." Each book also includes suggested activities to test ideas as well as a thorough glossary and a Webliography.–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL School Library JournalSeptember 2009
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This book is a nice introduction to the variety of the Earth’s Biomes. It is easily understood. The graphics are very pleasing and it gives a lot of basic material about the subject. Illustrations are appropriate to the story. Facts and descriptions are accurate and consistent with the story and setting, although slanted towards global warming as a man-made threat and opposed to natural occurence of climate and weather. –Shelby Guinn, Swainston Middle School Clark County School District Library Services 4/28/10
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Clear language, embedded definitions, and interesting examples illustrate abstract concepts through both text and well-chosen photographs. The authors do not avoid difficult or controversial issues: Changing Life, for example, provides a clear and useful explanation of the theory of evolution, with multiple sources of evidence and a discussion of how it helps scientists to predict the implications of changes to the environment. Science Ethics discusses topics such as global warming and animal research, and their implications for decision-making by scientists, policy makers, and voters. Because so many issues are raised in this book, it will be especially useful as a research starter in both science and social-studies classes. In addition to describing relevant theories and the scientific explanations for observed phenomena, each book also discusses the impact of human activities on the issues discussed, whether the way humans impact ecosystems (Ecology) or how smoking and drinking affect sperm count and the unborn child (Human Reproduction). The main focus, however, is on the scientific concepts rather than applications–for instance, Human Reproduction does not discuss contraception except to note the statistic that "sexually active teenage girls who do not use contraceptives (birth control) have a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year." Each book also includes suggested activities to test ideas as well as a thorough glossary and a Webliography.–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL School Library JournalSeptember 2009
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This book is about ecology, the study of the relationships between living things and their environment. Great photos and charts. —Darcy A. Bechtel Clark County School District 10/19/2009
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Clear language, embedded definitions, and interesting examples illustrate abstract concepts through both text and well-chosen photographs. The authors do not avoid difficult or controversial issues: Changing Life, for example, provides a clear and useful explanation of the theory of evolution, with multiple sources of evidence and a discussion of how it helps scientists to predict the implications of changes to the environment. Science Ethics discusses topics such as global warming and animal research, and their implications for decision-making by scientists, policy makers, and voters. Because so many issues are raised in this book, it will be especially useful as a research starter in both science and social-studies classes. In addition to describing relevant theories and the scientific explanations for observed phenomena, each book also discusses the impact of human activities on the issues discussed, whether the way humans impact ecosystems (Ecology) or how smoking and drinking affect sperm count and the unborn child (Human Reproduction). The main focus, however, is on the scientific concepts rather than applications–for instance, Human Reproduction does not discuss contraception except to note the statistic that "sexually active teenage girls who do not use contraceptives (birth control) have a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year." Each book also includes suggested activities to test ideas as well as a thorough glossary and a Webliography.–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL School Library JournalSeptember 2009
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Describing topics that are both timely and interesting to middle school students, the Sci-Hi series explores science with accessible text and engaging pictures. The authors break complex content it into short chunks that students can read and think about. These sections provide background information on the subject, show flow charts to explain concepts, and introduce key vocabulary. In students' hands, these books provide a great place to start research on a topic or can just be interesting reads. Each book in the series has the essential elements of good informational text. The tables of contents draw students in by framing questions in bubbles; students can then find the answers in the text. Key words are presented in bold type and are defined in the glossaries. Interesting facts are featured in sidebar notes, and students are guided to new information as they read. The images in the books are both current and global in their content. The use of varied text elements, such as diagrams, graphs, and charts are a real plus, presenting information in a variety of ways. The books also contain bibliographies of current books and websites that students can explore if they want more information on the subject. Did you know that no two zebras have the same pattern of stripes or that peregrine falcons are found on all continents except Antarctica? These are just two of the many intriguing facts to be gleaned from this fascinating book. The basic concepts of ecology—interactions, ecosystems, producers, consumers, decomposers, food chains, food webs, and energy pyramids—are all presented with clear graphics and great tidbits of information. A wide variety of ecological topics can be found in this volume. Biomagnification is presented in the context of Rachel Carson’s elegant wake-up call to the world concerning the environmental effects of pesticides. This is followed by the threat of invasive species, the highly adaptable creatures that can easily wipe out native species in an environment. Symbiotic relationships, competition, the concept of an ecological niche, and ecological succession are described as factors that affect the success and balance in ecosystems. Many effects of human activity on the environment are also brought up. Also included in the book are student activities on designing an energy pyramid, researching endangered species, exploring symbiotic relationships, creating compost, and doing a field study of an ecosystem. Considering the information in this book, it would be good background for anyone needing a quick refresher of basic ecology. —Richard Lord NSTA9/23/2009
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Clear language, embedded definitions, and interesting examples illustrate abstract concepts through both text and well-chosen photographs. The authors do not avoid difficult or controversial issues: Changing Life, for example, provides a clear and useful explanation of the theory of evolution, with multiple sources of evidence and a discussion of how it helps scientists to predict the implications of changes to the environment. Science Ethics discusses topics such as global warming and animal research, and their implications for decision-making by scientists, policy makers, and voters. Because so many issues are raised in this book, it will be especially useful as a research starter in both science and social-studies classes. In addition to describing relevant theories and the scientific explanations for observed phenomena, each book also discusses the impact of human activities on the issues discussed, whether the way humans impact ecosystems (Ecology) or how smoking and drinking affect sperm count and the unborn child (Human Reproduction). The main focus, however, is on the scientific concepts rather than applications–for instance, Human Reproduction does not discuss contraception except to note the statistic that "sexually active teenage girls who do not use contraceptives (birth control) have a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year." Each book also includes suggested activities to test ideas as well as a thorough glossary and a Webliography.–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL School Library JournalSeptember 2009
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Describing topics that are both timely and interesting to middle school students, the Sci-Hi series explores science with accessible text and engaging pictures. The authors break complex content it into short chunks that students can read and think about. These sections provide background information on the subject, show flow charts to explain concepts, and introduce key vocabulary. In students' hands, these books provide a great place to start research on a topic or can just be interesting reads. Each book in the series has the essential elements of good informational text. The tables of contents draw students in by framing questions in bubbles; students can then find the answers in the text. Key words are presented in bold type and are defined in the glossaries. Interesting facts are featured in sidebar notes, and students are guided to new information as they read. The images in the books are both current and global in their content. The use of varied text elements, such as diagrams, graphs, and charts are a real plus, presenting information in a variety of ways. The books also contain bibliographies of current books and websites that students can explore if they want more information on the subject. The human body is "the most complicated and powerful object we use every day." It needs to be properly cared for and maintained, and this book is somewhat of a guide to help students in this important daily challenge. Tracing the development of the body from conception through birth, infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, the authors help students learn about the milestones they have experienced or will experience. A section on diet and nutrition explains how the body uses nutrients, stresses the importance of a balanced diet, and discusses diet challenges that face teens. The value of proper exercise, both aerobic and anaerobic, and the dangers of steroid drugs are stressed. Preventive health practices such as cleanliness, oral hygiene, and proper eye care are emphasized, and the serious effects of using tobacco, alcohol, and drugs, including prescription drugs, are presented in a factual, no-nonsense fashion. The book concludes with a brief discussion of emotional health. —Richard Lord NSTA9/23/2009
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Describing topics that are both timely and interesting to middle school students, the Sci-Hi series explores science with accessible text and engaging pictures. The authors break complex content it into short chunks that students can read and think about. These sections provide background information on the subject, show flow charts to explain concepts, and introduce key vocabulary. In students' hands, these books provide a great place to start research on a topic or can just be interesting reads. Each book in the series has the essential elements of good informational text. The tables of contents draw students in by framing questions in bubbles; students can then find the answers in the text. Key words are presented in bold type and are defined in the glossaries. Interesting facts are featured in sidebar notes, and students are guided to new information as they read. The images in the books are both current and global in their content. The use of varied text elements, such as diagrams, graphs, and charts are a real plus, presenting information in a variety of ways. The books also contain bibliographies of current books and websites that students can explore if they want more information on the subject. Reproduction is the one life function that is absolutely necessary for a species to survive. Noting that 243 human babies are born every minute, this volume addresses this important aspect of students’ future lives. Beginning with the female, the anatomy of the reproductive system of both sexes is explained sensitively, with clear and appropriate text and graphics. The female hormonal cycle is described at a level that middle school students should be able to understand. Egg and sperm cell production and fertilization lead to a well-done presentation on the development of the embryo. This is described in the context of the responsibilities of the mother to have proper nutrition and to avoid smoking and the use of drugs and alcohol while pregnant. Descriptions of the birth process and the nourishment and bonding during the neonatal period are followed by a brief summary of the development of the child from infancy through childhood and puberty to adulthood, thus completing the life cycle. A timeline of human development and life concludes the book. Human reproduction is a topic that generates great interest among middle school-age students, and it's sometimes difficult to find instructional materials that will engage them while still treating the subject in a manner that will gain the approval of teachers, administrators, and parents. This book is thoughtfully written but contains all the important material that the topic requires. It is one that should be acceptable to all. —Richard Lord NSTA9/23/2009
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Clear language, embedded definitions, and interesting examples illustrate abstract concepts through both text and well-chosen photographs. The authors do not avoid difficult or controversial issues: Changing Life, for example, provides a clear and useful explanation of the theory of evolution, with multiple sources of evidence and a discussion of how it helps scientists to predict the implications of changes to the environment. Science Ethics discusses topics such as global warming and animal research, and their implications for decision-making by scientists, policy makers, and voters. Because so many issues are raised in this book, it will be especially useful as a research starter in both science and social-studies classes. In addition to describing relevant theories and the scientific explanations for observed phenomena, each book also discusses the impact of human activities on the issues discussed, whether the way humans impact ecosystems (Ecology) or how smoking and drinking affect sperm count and the unborn child (Human Reproduction). The main focus, however, is on the scientific concepts rather than applications–for instance, Human Reproduction does not discuss contraception except to note the statistic that "sexually active teenage girls who do not use contraceptives (birth control) have a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year." Each book also includes suggested activities to test ideas as well as a thorough glossary and a Webliography.–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL School Library JournalSeptember 2009
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Clear language, embedded definitions, and interesting examples illustrate abstract concepts through both text and well-chosen photographs. The authors do not avoid difficult or controversial issues: Changing Life, for example, provides a clear and useful explanation of the theory of evolution, with multiple sources of evidence and a discussion of how it helps scientists to predict the implications of changes to the environment. Science Ethics discusses topics such as global warming and animal research, and their implications for decision-making by scientists, policy makers, and voters. Because so many issues are raised in this book, it will be especially useful as a research starter in both science and social-studies classes. In addition to describing relevant theories and the scientific explanations for observed phenomena, each book also discusses the impact of human activities on the issues discussed, whether the way humans impact ecosystems (Ecology) or how smoking and drinking affect sperm count and the unborn child (Human Reproduction). The main focus, however, is on the scientific concepts rather than applications–for instance, Human Reproduction does not discuss contraception except to note the statistic that "sexually active teenage girls who do not use contraceptives (birth control) have a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year." Each book also includes suggested activities to test ideas as well as a thorough glossary and a Webliography.–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL School Library JournalSeptember 2009
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Describing topics that are both timely and interesting to middle school students, the Sci-Hi series explores science with accessible text and engaging pictures. The authors break complex content it into short chunks that students can read and think about. These sections provide background information on the subject, show flow charts to explain concepts, and introduce key vocabulary. In students' hands, these books provide a great place to start research on a topic or can just be interesting reads. Each book in the series has the essential elements of good informational text. The tables of contents draw students in by framing questions in bubbles; students can then find the answers in the text. Key words are presented in bold type and are defined in the glossaries. Interesting facts are featured in sidebar notes, and students are guided to new information as they read. The images in the books are both current and global in their content. The use of varied text elements, such as diagrams, graphs, and charts are a real plus, presenting information in a variety of ways. The books also contain bibliographies of current books and websites that students can explore if they want more information on the subject. Much of what scientists do is controversial. This book shows how using evidence (observable facts from nature) and the scientific method can help answer questions when controversy arises. A realistic picture of scientists emerges as people who do inquiry and who, even though they collaborate with each other and communicate their findings through conferences and publications, do not always agree. The need for scientists to have ethical standards is highlighted, and areas such as stem cell research and animal rights are discussed as areas in which the ethical issues are controversial. A list of ethical questions for class discussion is included. The roles of science in our culture and of our culture in science are presented with the observation that cultural traditions and faith are often at odds with science. Space travel, evolution, global climate change, and the economics of health care are examples of areas in which science and culture interact. The book includes activities on the rate of falling, organic farming, and energy economics, and the book ends with a brief description of ways that students can solve problems by taking actions that will make a difference. —Richard Lord NSTA9/23/2009
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Discussion of different areas of science and how they fit into ethics. Many illustrations. They reflect the topic of discussion. The facts are consistent. Ethics are based on general morals. —Michael L. Long, Sunrise Mountain High School Clark County School District Library Services3/15/2010
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Clear language, embedded definitions, and interesting examples illustrate abstract concepts through both text and well-chosen photographs. The authors do not avoid difficult or controversial issues: Changing Life, for example, provides a clear and useful explanation of the theory of evolution, with multiple sources of evidence and a discussion of how it helps scientists to predict the implications of changes to the environment. Science Ethics discusses topics such as global warming and animal research, and their implications for decision-making by scientists, policy makers, and voters. Because so many issues are raised in this book, it will be especially useful as a research starter in both science and social-studies classes. In addition to describing relevant theories and the scientific explanations for observed phenomena, each book also discusses the impact of human activities on the issues discussed, whether the way humans impact ecosystems (Ecology) or how smoking and drinking affect sperm count and the unborn child (Human Reproduction). The main focus, however, is on the scientific concepts rather than applications–for instance, Human Reproduction does not discuss contraception except to note the statistic that "sexually active teenage girls who do not use contraceptives (birth control) have a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year." Each book also includes suggested activities to test ideas as well as a thorough glossary and a Webliography.–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL School Library JournalSeptember 2009
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