Nature Smart Awesome Projects

Diehn, Gwen; Krautwurst, Terry; Anderson, Alan; Rhatigan, Joe; Smith, Heather

ISBN 10: 1402705158 / ISBN 13: 9781402705151

Published by Main Street, 2003

Item in good condition. Textbooks may not include supplemental items i.e. CDs, access codes etc. Seller Inventory # 00086712254

Synopsis:

Kids will get in touch with Mother Earth--and see how to save her, too--with 150 illustrated, truly terrific nature-friendly projects. There are things to do for every season of the year, crafts that use recycled materials, and activities that encourage youngsters to investigate the natural world. Fantastic color photos capture real children happily working on the projects, and every project mixes fun and learning. A cute cat wind vane will show which way the wind blows, and a pretty barometer in a painted jar captures changes in air pressure; fabulous facts on weather provide additional interesting information. Take advantage of the great things that grow by making candies with fresh mint leaves or vinegars with just-picked herbs. Plus: a pocket sundial, a sweet smelling grass mat, a "desert in a jar," and more.

Reviews: Grade 3-6-Half science lesson, half hands-on project making, Nature Smart gives children the opportunity to learn through investigation. In addition, many pages are devoted to explaining, in easily understood language, the workings of nature: the water cycle, the significance of differences between birds' wings; why flowers have colors and varying shapes; why trees lose their leaves, etc. These fascinating discussions will go a long way toward helping children understand interdependencies in the natural world. The importance of recycling materials and keeping cast-off products out of landfills is also emphasized. Clear, close-up color photos enhance descriptions of natural settings and plants and animals and clarify the clearly numbered steps in the projects. Some of the crafts can be found elsewhere, such as sandcast candles, calendar-page boxes, and paper beads, but many are unique. Some of the more unusual projects include a pocket sundial and a nocturne night dial. With adult assistance, all of these crafts are feasible and produce worthwhile results. A winning combination of science information and activities.
Lynda Ritterman, Atco Elementary School, Waterford, NJ
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Bibliographic Details

Title: Nature Smart Awesome Projects
Publisher: Main Street
Publication Date: 2003
Binding: Soft cover
Condition: Good