This series explores Earth's solar system as well as galaxies, stars, and other objects in space. Each book reflects the latest research and will teach readers basic scientific principles that aid in understanding the workings of the universe.
After reading The Solar System, I loved this book very much and it has showed me different techniques of how I can show my students how to critically think about science. The first page dives into a couple true or false questions and at the bottom there is an arrow that says you will find the answers throughout the book when you read them. The contents page is very bright and grabs the attention of the readers of what they will be learning about throughout the book. They have chapters throughout the book and images help the reader understand the importance of this heading. Scattered throughout the book are subtitles in different colors and bold words that are crucial evidence to answering the questions at the beginning of the book. I would probably read this book to 3rd or 4th graders as a read aloud. I love how they use acronym of how to name the planets in order in space. There are graphs that include how long it takes for each planet to orbit around the sun. These little fun facts will help the students be more engaged when learning about the solar system. As an activity for my students, the whole class will create our own solar system that we will make in the classroom and we can have it set out, so students can look at it for reference.
In this short chapter book, Howard Trammel discusses the parts of the solar system. The sun, inner and outer planets, stars, and shooting stars are all topics that are explored. The accompanying pictures help readers compare the planet sizes and see what each planet looks like in real life; there are also pictures of spacecrafts and meteors. This is a great book for children who already know a little about the solar system and are looking to find out more. At the end of the book, the author provides recommendations for additional places to find information, such as other books, websites, and places to visit.
Reading Level: Ages 8 and up Grade Level: Grades 3 and up