Looking for a new take on an old topic? River Wild makes the study of rivers and waterways both educational and stimulating. The book can be used at many different grade levels with minor adaptations. It provides a fresh new look at the study of rivers and will be an indispensable resource for every educator.
The book begins with a chapter about the river as a water highway. It uses text and investigations to explain how rivers work and their impact on the living things around them. There are useful vocabulary and vital information provided in a simple, focused manner. Many hands-on, inexpensive activities stress the key points of the content. Seven separate sections focus on a specific geographic region of the United States. Popular rivers in each region are emphasized. For each highlighted river, there is an up-to-date fact box that provides vital information.
There are several unique features. Most chapters contain games that will get students moving while reinforcing the material. Throughout the book there are special “River Challenges” that suggest possible community involvement projects for children. There are also “River Rapids” sections that provide essential facts on which teachers can concentrate. Subject area integration is not forgotten, either. Students are treated to enjoyable art projects and opportunities for writing. The resource section of the book is comprehensive, offering students and teachers many ways of locating additional information about rivers through books, videos, and the internet. It also gives the addresses for organizations and riverkeepers so students can gain more information through the mail.