Book Love: What is a Scientist?

Title: What is a Scientist?

Author: Barbara Lehn

Why I Love This Book: I used this book with my Kindergartners last year to introduce what it means to be a scientist. I love the way that the author breaks science down into very simple concepts. For example, "a scientist is a person who asks questions and finds different ways to answer them" or a "scientist learns from her senses." Each of the simple statements could be used as the foundation for a lesson on their own, and all of them could be used in an anchor chart to refer to during scientific exploration. The photographs might feel a little dated now (the book was printed in 1999), but they still offer young readers a sense of connection with the kids in the book. The book also helped me as a teacher to break down the subject of science into meaningful components. This is a great book for the classroom, but it could also open the door for scientific conversation and exploration at home! 

Book Love: What Do You Do With a Tail Like This?

Title: What Do You Do With a Tail Like This?

Author: Robin Page

Illustrator: Steve Jenkins

Why I Love This Book: First of all, some author/illustrator love for Steve Jenkins. His books are always full of amazing illustrations, creative text, and great information about animals and associated science concepts. This is one of my favorites. It explores the different functions of animal parts, such as eyes, tails, feet, and mouths. I even learned some new things the first time I read it! The presentation of these concepts makes it really fun for kids, as they can engage in guessing the animals based on pictures of only their tails or noses. The science content is simple enough that it could work well for Kindergarten and First Graders, although the the ideas and pictures could make for great conversations at any age. There is also a section in the back with  more detailed information about each animal that would be great for more advanced thinkers within or above those age groups.  A very fun, informational book!