School Library Journal - Judith V. Lechner
Clear language, embedded definitions, and interesting examples illustrate abstract concepts through both text and well-chosen photographs. The authors do not avoid difficult or controversial issues: Changing Life, for example, provides a clear and useful explanation of the theory of evolution, with multiple sources of evidence and a discussion of how it helps scientists to predict the implications of changes to the environment. Science Ethics discusses topics such as global warming and animal research, and their implications for decision-making by scientists, policy makers, and voters. Because so many issues are raised in this book, it will be especially useful as a research starter in both science and social-studies classes. In addition to describing relevant theories and the scientific explanations for observed phenomena, each book also discusses the impact of human activities on the issues discussed, whether the way humans impact ecosystems (Ecology) or how smoking and drinking affect sperm count and the unborn child (Human Reproduction). The main focus, however, is on the scientific concepts rather than applications–for instance, Human Reproduction does not discuss contraception except to note the statistic that "sexually active teenage girls who do not use contraceptives (birth control) have a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year." Each book also includes suggested activities to test ideas as well as a thorough glossary and a Webliography.–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL<i> School Library Journal</i>September 2009
November 14, 2011NSTA - Richard Lord
Describing topics that are both timely and interesting to middle school students, the Sci-Hi series explores science with accessible text and engaging pictures. The authors break complex content it into short chunks that students can read and think about. These sections provide background information on the subject, show flow charts to explain concepts, and introduce key vocabulary. In students' hands, these books provide a great place to start research on a topic or can just be interesting reads. Each book in the series has the essential elements of good informational text. The tables of contents draw students in by framing questions in bubbles; students can then find the answers in the text. Key words are presented in bold type and are defined in the glossaries. Interesting facts are featured in sidebar notes, and students are guided to new information as they read. The images in the books are both current and global in their content. The use of varied text elements, such as diagrams, graphs, and charts are a real plus, presenting information in a variety of ways. The books also contain bibliographies of current books and websites that students can explore if they want more information on the subject. Much of what scientists do is controversial. This book shows how using evidence (observable facts from nature) and the scientific method can help answer questions when controversy arises. A realistic picture of scientists emerges as people who do inquiry and who, even though they collaborate with each other and communicate their findings through conferences and publications, do not always agree. The need for scientists to have ethical standards is highlighted, and areas such as stem cell research and animal rights are discussed as areas in which the ethical issues are controversial. A list of ethical questions for class discussion is included. The roles of science in our culture and of our culture in science are presented with the observation that cultural traditions and faith are often at odds with science. Space travel, evolution, global climate change, and the economics of health care are examples of areas in which science and culture interact. The book includes activities on the rate of falling, organic farming, and energy economics, and the book ends with a brief description of ways that students can solve problems by taking actions that will make a difference. —Richard Lord<i> NSTA</i>9/23/2009
September 23, 2009Clark County School District Library Services - Michael L. Long
Discussion of different areas of science and how they fit into ethics. Many illustrations. They reflect the topic of discussion. The facts are consistent. Ethics are based on general morals. —Michael L. Long, Sunrise Mountain High School <i> Clark County School District Library Services</i>3/15/2010
March 15, 2010
