NSTA Recommends
Learning About My Body: Science Works for Kids Series
by Jo Ellen Moore and Jill Norris
Price at time of review: $9.95
80 pp.
Evan-Moor Educational Publishers
Monterey, CA
2000
ISBN: 1-55799-773-X
Grade Level: K-4
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Reviewed by Kevin Vidergar
Science/Math Consultant
Learning About My Body in the Science Works for Kids series is designed to engage kindergarten and first grade learners in active science. The book includes teacher background and reproducible worksheets to support investigations of anatomy. There are two main concepts addressed in Learning About My Body: the body has structures and behaviors that help it grow and survive (including external and internal parts, a brain, and the five senses), and we must take care of our bodies through good nutrition, rest, cleanliness, exercise, and attention to safety.
The diagrams and drawings throughout the book are very student-friendly with enough detail to understand the concept and enough room for students to draw and color without being frustrated. The book also fetures many active investigations using simple materials. Teachers are encouraged to create logbooks with their students, a large one to document class activities and discoveries and individual logbooks for students to take home to share with their families. These logbooks will help teachers catch any misunderstandings right away.
The teacher notes describe potential demonstrations well. What I liked most about Learning About My Body is that all of the activities use simple materials to engage students in good science. For example, as students explore the concept of taking care of our bodies through good health practices, they are brought to understand that good health habits are a matter of choice and that they are each responsible for their own choices. After learning about the parts of the body, connections are made between what makes for healthy body parts and the choices regarding good health habits. This is good science!
Learning About My Body could be used as a stand-alone science unit or integrated easily into a thematic unit. These books could also be used as a resource for teachers of grades two and three to reinforce any concepts students might have missed. The book also includes a lengthy bibliography of excellent literature books that could be used to create thematic lessons.
Review posted on 4/11/2001
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