Figuring Out Fossils
Written by Sally M. Walker
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The past is a fascinating place. I’ve always been amazed at what scientists can figure out from fossils and other archaeological clues. Many children share my sense of wonder and amazement. Figuring Out Fossils (part of Lerner’s cleverly named new series, Do You Dig Earth Science?) is a great way for second-grade readers to explore these artifacts from long ago.
Figuring Out Fossils starts with a basic question: What Are Fossils? From there the book explains everything you need to know about fossils, including what they are, how they form, where they are found, and how scientists use them to learn about the past. Along the way, readers will learn amazing facts, such as even footprints can become fossils, or that ice can preserve not just ancient bones, but fur, skin, and muscles as well. The book is illustrated with stunning photographs that show readers close-ups of fossils, along with views of complete reconstructed skeletons and scientists working in the field. This is a well-researched, well-written, and appealing book.
I highly recommended Figuring Out Fossils for any second-grade classroom. The book is well-organized, with each chapter focused on a specific topic and clear chapter titles to direct readers to the information they’re looking for. A diagram of fossil formation is a valuable resource, and the book also includes a glossary, a list of books and websites with more information, an index, and a link to additional online educational resources.
Figuring Out Fossils will benefit students and teachers in many ways. It is a great resource for a classroom library, as well as a good choice for a book report or science project. Teachers will find it easy to create reading, vocabulary, or science worksheets from this book. Eager readers will appreciate the easy-to-understand and straightforward text, the terrific photos, and the wealth of fascinating information. This is a great choice for any teacher or student looking to learn more about fossils and the journey back in time that they take us on.
Title: Figuring Out Fossils- Author: Sally M. Walker
- Publisher: Lerner Publishing Group, 2013
- Reviewer: Joanne Mattern
- Hardback: 40 pages
- ISBN: 978-0-4677-0019-1
- Genre: Science
