Science Wizardry for Kids Author:Margaret Kenda Includes over two hundred projects that enable young scientists to make secret formulas, blow bubbles of all sizes and colors, grow smart plants, make predictions, and more. — Grade 3-6-- These simple science activities are intriguing, with clear instructions that neatly tie the expected results in with the scientific principles they demonstrate.... more » In many cases, readers are encouraged to pursue the concepts further on their own. Several experiments within one chapter often relate to one another, expanding the ideas of the initial activity. The text is informal and chatty, but does not oversimplify. Illustrations consist of a single cartoon for each activity; they are usually useless, but the clarity of the instructions compensates for their inadequacy. Mixed in among the straight experiments are informational tidbits (how hurricanes are named, mnemonics for memorizing the names of the planets) and more practical activities (building a bird feeder). While early chapters on chemistry and physics are mostly experiments, later sections, such as the one on astronomy, consist of more thought-provoking concepts. Some children will appreciate the variety of science-related material; others may be turned off by the unfocused and inconsistent approach. Nevertheless, this is a good resource for easy projects and for kids who are just plain curious; teachers and parents may find it especially useful.
[Steven Engelfried, Alameda County Library, CA]« less