Astronomy Lab for Kids

November 1, 2016
Explore the science of astronomy through hands-on activities! The author, an educator at Chicago's Adler Planetarium, has nicely organized 52 astronomy "labs," which offer a broad introduction and reflect recent scientific discoveries. She begins with activities to hone observational skills. Then her young experimenters will learn about telescopes; work with size and scale and light, motion, and gravity; and explore the solar system and the night sky. Some activities are straightforward (two different ways to see the colors in light), and some answer questions (does the sun always rise in the east?). Each section (which range from two to four pages) includes time, materials, safety tips, step-by-step instructions illustrated with photographs, an explanation called "the science behind the fun," and suggestions for further explorations, such as questions to think about, other ways to do the lab, and related activities. The author doesn't always reveal the expected result. The young experimenters represent a variety of ages, races, and ethnicities; they're often shown working with a partner. The materials called for are simple and easily available. Suggested times range from a few minutes to over days and even through a year. This well-thought-out collection includes many demonstrations familiar to science educators as well as some surprising and engaging new ones; it should be a welcome addition to any school, public, or home science library. (Nonfiction. 8-14)

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December 1, 2016

Gr 3-6-Astronomy comes to life in this activity book of science labs. Astronomy educator and professional Nichols has used her 20-plus years of experience to pen a fun, educational compilation of simple astronomy labs for children. It begins by helping children develop background knowledge in observational skills, angles, and directions before it increases in complexity. The content is well organized, and each lab layout is consistent with headings and photographs in addition to enrichment opportunities. Time constraints, materials, setup, and safety cautions precede instructions, followed by a "The Science Behind the Fun" blurb explaining the activity for students who may be less familiar with the subjects involved. Especially valuable are images that illustrate each step in the instructions. The projects are divided into units, such as "Size and Scale" and "Light, Motion, and Gravity," making it easy to follow and locate relevant materials to aid or accompany classroom learning. A comprehensive list of additional resources is provided. VERDICT A creative way to offer hands-on learning for science educators, parents, or students interested in astronomy.-Doneanne Soult, Westampton Middle School, NJ

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 1, 2016
Grades 1-4 Astronomy need not be a topic that is above kids' heads. This book offers plenty of experiments, demonstrations, and activities that are designed to explain fundamental concepts about space in ways that young people can connect to their everyday experiences. Basic scientific practices, such as keeping a record of observations in a journal, are encouraged. Thematic chapters cover ideas such as the size and scale of objects in space, principles of light and gravity, and the position of the stars in the night sky. While most activities require adult guidance, the supplies required can easily be culled from objects around the house. Creative enrichment options after each experiment suggest extension activities that will help young readers apply scientific understanding to the arts and nature. Sound scientific procedures, clearly photographed step-by-step directions, and thorough explanations of intended results make this a winning resource for family-friendly experiments concerning the heavens that will teach something new to both young readers and the adults assisting them.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)