Reviewed by Geraldine (Gerry) Waller
Middle School Teacher
Safety in the Elementary Science Classroom has been an important tool for teachers for many years. Now in its second edition, this publication is a concise guide to safe classroom practices for teachers who often have limited background and little time for preparation.
The flip-chart format is not meant to be comprehensive; educators are encouraged to review safety recommendations based on national, state, and/or local standards to assure that students are properly safeguarded. But while other sources may have more details, this is the one the teacher is most likely to have in an emergency.
Animals and plants in the classroom, eye protection, first aid, and fire prevention and control are among the topics included in this guide designed to be posted in the classroom as a quick reference. Sections on storage, labeling, the safe use of equipment and materials provide valid information that may be unfamiliar to teachers whose educational background is not primarily in science.
Each segment contains an introductory paragraph followed by a listing of suggestions or rules. For example, the section on fire prevention outlines how fires are classified along with details on how to best extinguish each category of fire. Delightful, cartoon-like drawings of boys and girls engaged in science activities are inserted throughout the guide. Safety in the Elementary Science Classroom can also be used to introduce students to the importance of safe science practices. This convenient, concise, detailed, and accurate reference will give teachers the confidence to proceed with hands-on activities with their students.
Review posted on 1/29/2001
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