Yikes! Wow! Yuck! Fun Experiments for Your First Science Fair

Grade 3–6—The experiments in this collection are based on everyday things in students' lives, such as Jell-O, potatoes, cereal, foggy mirrors, and exploding soda. Each one has clear, step-by-step directions and culminating questions. Ways to expand and change the projects are also included. Jokes are interspersed to add a bit of fun, and safety tips are included in the introduction and experiments designated "Adult Supervision Required." The illustrations offer a glimpse of what the experiment will include. There are many science-fair books available, but this one clearly introduces the steps necessary to prepare an entry for such an event.—Christine Markley, Washington Elementary School, Barto, PA
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This colorfully illustrated book offers practical advice on preparing and presenting experiments and instructions for two dozen science projects. Each two-page project opens with a line designed to reel kids. For instance, the project involving eggs dropped from a second-story window (after packing them in boxes with Styrofoam peanuts, starch peanuts, or zip-top bags of air) begins with “Want an excuse to break some eggs? Do it for science!” The introductory section on designing experiments and presenting conclusions is sound and the projects, illustrated with two pictures per double-page spread, provide enough detail to guide students through the steps and help them understand what is happening. A glossary is appended. As the title suggests, dramatic effect seems a high priority here, but students will find the book an appealing, useful guide to some uncomplicated science projects. Grades 4-7. --Carolyn Phelan