100 Greatest Science Inventions of All Time - Softcover

Haven, Kendall

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1591582644 ISBN 13: 9781591582649

Publisher: Libraries Unlimited, 2005

Synopsis

This ready reference presents fascinating facts about 100 amazing inventions, a panoramic overview of the history of science, and a collection of engaging reads.

Inventions are the stuff of dreams, quickly gaining widespread use, becoming central to culture, and ultimately changing our lives. They teach us a great deal about creativity and scientific principles, and, of course, the power of invention is of utmost importance in today's world of technology and innovation. Focusing on the 100 most significant scientific inventions of all time, this ready reference presents fascinating facts about amazing inventions, a panoramic overview of the history of science, an introduction to some of the most important inventors in history, and a collection of engaging reads. Each entry, arranged chronologically according to when the invention was made, contains information on what the invention is, who the inventor was, and how the invention was created. It also provides the historical context of the invention, its significance today, and information on resources for further reading/research. More than two millennia's worth of inventions are covered, ranging from the practical (clock, eyeglasses) to the everyday (measuring spoons, ball point pen), the life-saving (antiseptic, chemotherapy), and the mind-boggling (the number zero, cloning). By covering inventions throughout history, rather than just the 20th and 21st centuries, and presenting information comprehensible to young readers, this book fills a gap in the literature. It is a wonderful resource for student research and reports; can easily be used for read-alouds or as an introduction to teaching units on inventions; as well as a solid general reference on inventors and inventions. Grades 4-9 (adaptable to other levels).

About this title

About the Author

KENDALL HAVEN is a nationally recognized master storyteller and the author of numerous books, including Marvels of Math, Write Right!, and Close Encounters with Deadly Dangers. A former research scientist, he is based in Fulton, California.

Reviews

Grade 6 Up–Arranged chronologically, the three-page entries in this engaging work begin with the date of the invention and name of the inventor. These are followed by a narrative on the importance and history of the item, the scientist's process, and a description of how the invention has developed over time. The author's stated criteria for inclusion are that the invention was based in science, it was an invention rather than a discovery, and that it has had great ramifications for society. While one may argue with Haven's choices, the book helps to put the inventions in context and is fascinating enough to read cover to cover. It can be used for reference and as a springboard for further investigation and critical comparisons of firsts. The author includes several female inventors but few minorities. Further-reading lists at the end of each entry, however, do suggest books on women and African Americans. Unfortunately, there are no illustrations to help clarify some of the concepts. Also, frequent errors, some typographical (substituting Salk for Sabin in one instance), others more serious (such as inaccurate interchanging of cement, and concrete, and claiming that the medieval cathedrals were made of concrete), mar this work. Nevertheless, this is a good resource, complementing and extending Roger Bridgman's 1000 Inventions and Discoveries (DK, 2002).–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL
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Edition details

• Publisher: Libraries Unlimited
• Publication date: 2005
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1591582644
• ISBN 13: 9781591582649
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 360