Adventures with Atoms and Molecules: Chemistry Experiments for Young People, Vol. 1

From School Library Journal
Grade 3-6 These 30 chemistry experiments have been carefully written to demonstrate the logic, simplicity and effectiveness of the scientific method. Each experiment is designed to answer a specific question which is clearly answered by following correct scientific procedure. All materials used can (truly) be purchased at a grocery store. Procedure for each experiment is fully explained in the text. Procedures calling for adult assistance are used five times; however, students needing help passing a weak electric current through solution may not need help slicing an apple or turning on an oven. Close observation is required to answer the questions asked about each experiment. Complete explanations of observations and results are followed by specific suggestions for modification of each experiment to further understanding of the principle being studied. These are simple experiments, accessible to even reluctant or intimidated science students. This book is similar in scope and content to Robert Gardner's Kitchen Chemistry (Messner, 1982). Although Kitchen Chemistry has projects more complex and varied, the format of Adventures with Atoms and Molecules makes its experiments easier to read and follow. What this book lacks is excitement; if that is supplied by other students or adults, the book will be an excellent resource for at-home or in-school investigations. Dull, unimaginative computer-generated diagrams belie the integrity of the text. Allen Meyer, Vernon Area Public Library District, Prairie View, Ill.Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.


From Booklist
Gr. 7^-10. How does heat affect wrinkles in clothing? Can freezing temperatures harm plants? The fifth volume in this hands-on Adventures with Science series contains 30 experiments that demonstrate basic chemistry principles. For each experiment there's a list of materials, an outline of procedures, questions about observations, detailed discussion of the results, and suggestions for other things to try. Where necessary, there are strong safety directives about asking an adult for help. The book looks like a basic user's guide with small type, clear subheads, and occasional black-and-white illustrations. The writing style is plain and direct, just right for the stated purpose of making young people do, observe, and think science. There are lots of starters here for science fair projects. Hazel Rochman


Card catalog description
Chemistry experiments for home or school demonstrate the properties and behavior of various kinds of atoms and molecules.


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Gr 5-8 Like the authors' Adventures with Atoms and Molecules (Enslow, 1985), this volume of experiments further introduces chemistry to upper elementary readers. There are 30 new experiments, each followed by one or more ideas to investigate. The experiments present many scientific principles through the safe use of ingredients found around the house. Safety is a prime consideration. Cautionary statements are printed in boldface type. The acids are weak, such as lemon juice and vinegar, and the strongest base is a solution of calcium hydroxide purchased in the grocery store as ``pickling lime.'' The format matches that of the first volume. The experiments are illustrated with computer-generated black-and-white drawings. It is rare to find a book that illustrates the principles of chemistry as clearly and with as much enthusiasm as this. All libraries serving children will want to have this book and its predecessor; school libraries will want to order additional copies for teachers' collections. Margaret H. Hagel, Norfolk Public Library System, Va.


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