The Science of Soldiers

The Science of Soldiers

By Lucia Raatma

The Science of War Series

Compass Point Books, 2012

ISBN #9780756544607

Grades 6-9

Nonfiction

“Not everyone is able to be a soldier. It takes a certain kind of m an or woman to put on a uniform and face danger. For this reason soldiers are carefully screened and thoroughly trained before they go on active duty.”

This fascinating book explains the advances in military technology and how technology is being made and used to protect and aid the soldiers in the United States. My interest in the book was heightened by having a son working as a civilian at a military installation and seeing the technology he uses and develops to make safer training situations for the soldiers working there.

Different aspects of the military in all branches are covered, from fitness and basic training to eating and protective gear and equipment. Each category is covered by a chapter and the science behind the developments is carefully explained in a way readers can understand. From night vision to weapons to heating meals, how soldiers live and work is filled with amazing new changes. GPS, Kevlar, body armor, bullet tracing acoustics, rucksacks, and Bluetooth prosthetics all provide necessary means of protecting soldiers, saving lives in battle, and helping returning soldiers recover from injuries.

This is a book that will appeal to middle school  readers and those readers with an interest in the military or with family members leaving for service. It’s written in a factual, narrative style and sidebars add extra information. The back matter includes a glossary, read more section, internet sites, a bibliography, and index. It’s good to know that technology, so prevalent in everyday lives, is also at work to protect the lives of those serving in the military.

Activity

Choose one of the new forms of technology discussed in the book and further research it. From the research, write an additional paragraph that would go along as a sidebar in the book. Use the voice and style of the author to convey your facts.

How Stuff Works has some information about technology.

This army site has links to various forms of current technology.

National Science Standards: influence of engineering, technology and science on society and the natural world

Book provided by Capstone