Machines (Make It Work!)

Introduces basic facts about the construction and function of simple machines with instructions for related experiments and projects.

Grade 3-6-These two bright, colorful books offer an exciting look at a variety of engineering ideas and concepts. Those in Building look especially inviting, with instructions for creating such structures as bridges, cable cars, aqueducts, and igloos, while Machines offers activities involving rocket power, steam engines, and other more traditional subjects. Both titles have a two-page spread for each project, with large photographs and several informational paragraphs. Various cultures and both genders are well represented in the illustrations. Safety is emphasized throughout. There is some discussion of the process of engineering, but little space is devoted to such issues as critical thinking, hypothesizing, and testing theories. Some projects will be easy for children to do alone, while others, such as building a space module, would work better in a classroom or other group setting. Use these two titles in conjunction with David MacAulay's Unbuilding (Houghton, 1980) or Ken Robbins's Bridges (Dial, 1991).
Janet K. Hamilton, Museum of Science, Boston
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.