The Jumbo Book of Space is a great book for the home school and in-school curriculum, as well as for kids who love science.
Written for ages 8 to 12, The Jumbo Book of Space by Cynthia Pratt Nicolson and Paulette Bourgeois (Kids Can Press, ISBN-10: 1-55453-020-2) makes a great addition to grades 3-7 science curriculum. There are also fun activities to do that help children understand everything from why the moon has phases to how to cook with the Sun’s rays.
Space Concepts
The Jumbo Book of Space is divided into 18 chapters. These chapters are then broken into smaller, bite-size topics.
In the first two chapters, children will learn about Earth: how Earth was formed and what it was like after being formed, what is the size and shape of Earth, why we have a day and a night, and why we have seasons. The book begins to enter space in the following two chapters. Children will discover how telescopes were invented, how rockets work, and what satellites do. They’ll also learn about space shuttles, astronauts, and the space station.
In chapters five through eight, children will begin exploring our closest neighbor, the Moon. They’ll learn about what the Moon is made of, how the Moon appears to change shape, and what is an eclipse. They’ll also take a closer look at the Moon’s surface and examine how the Moon affects the ocean’s tides.
After the Moon, children go on to learn about the Sun. They’ll discover what the Sun is made of, how the Sun’s light affects life, and about energy from the sun.
Planets are next. Chapter twelve is an exciting chapter that gives kids a good introduction into all the planets in our solar system. Pluto is included in the planetary line-up and is listed as a dwarf planet.
The next chapters cover comets, asteroids, meteorites, and the stars. Children (and adults) will learn the difference between a meteoroid, a meteor, and a meteorite. They will also learn fascinating facts about stars and constellations.
The final two chapters take a look at the galaxy and the universe. The Big Bang theory is covered as well as other scientific (non-religious) theories.
Science Activities
Throughout the entire book, there are science activities that children can do at home or in a school setting. Children will get to compare a hard-boiled egg’s layers to the layers of Earth. They will get to make a basic telescope for Moon gazing using mirrors and a magnifying glass. They will also learn how to cook a hotdog using the heat from the Sun.
Home School Curriculum
The Jumbo Book of Space is a perfect fit into the home school or extra school scenario. Each chapter is easily read in one short sitting and there are plenty of illustrations on each page to keep roaming eyes busy. Furthermore, each chapter has at least one, often more, activity for kids to learn from. This is definitely one science book kids will enjoy
