Science Crafts for Kids: 50 Fantastic Things to Invent & Create

Introdudes readers to the different branches of science through creative projects, ranging in levels of difficulty, which are divided into the categories: air, water, earth, and fire

Grade 5-7-This colorful, hands-on guide introduces a number of different branches of science. The projects range from the fairly simple (clay pot wind chimes, pinwheel helicopter) to the complex (model grist mill, powered model boats, xylophone). The detailed instructions include a list of materials needed and explanatory line drawings. The activities are divided into four sections: air, water, earth, and fire. Extensive informational sidebars explain the principles involved. Attractive, full-color photographs show a variety of actively involved, enthusiastic kids. However, only 8 of the 50 projects listed in the contents have a "needs adult help" symbol, yet many of them require the use of a saw, razor knife, and/or drill and could be dangerous without adult supervision. Judith Hahn's How Science Works (Readers Digest, 1991) is another excellent source with sound scientific information and more adequate adult supervision advisories.
Eunice Weech, M.L. King Elementary School, Urbana, IL
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.