Posts Tagged science

STEM Tuesday– Natural Disasters– In the Classroom

 

While this month’s theme is natural disasters, I focused on just one: wildfires. The books I read all had a lot of overlap. They were:

Cover shows deer and other animals running and flying against a background of red and yellow with silhouettes of trees.Fire Escape: How Animals and Plants Survive Wildfires
by Jessica Stremer, illustrated by Michael Garland

Of the books I read this month, Fire Escape covers the most material and has the highest word count. Topics include how plants and animals survive wildfires, how animals are treated after being injured in a fire, how goats act as a fire prevention tool, and much more. I suspect everyone will find at least one topic that interests them in this book. The numerous Fire Fact! factoids provide lots of interesting tidbits for trivia-minded readers.

 

Book cover shows three firefighters on a green hill with a red and yellow sky above. The lead firefighter holds a yellow hose, out of which bluish-gray water is streaming.They Hold the Line: Wildfires, Wildlands, and the Firefighters Who Brave Them
by Dan Paley, illustrated by Molly Mendoza

They Hold the Line packs a lot of information in a relatively low word count. It’s a great book for visual learners. I really loved reading the illustrator’s notes about how they chose the colors to use for the illustrations.

 

I also read two other books about wildfires that were not on the monthly theme list.

Book cover shows several pine trees silhouetted against the yellow and red of a wildfire burning behind them. Grayish smoke rises above the flames.Wildfires
by Georgia Beth

Of the books I read this month, Wildfires has the most in-depth coverage of the chemistry of fire. It packs a lot of information into a relatively short format.

 

 

Book title overlays a raging wildfire - trees silhouetted against bright orange and red flames with sparks flying overhead. Inset pictures show a campfire, a firefighter preparing to repel out of a helicopter, and a plane dumping a red substance onto a forest near a fire.

All About Wildfires
by Alessandra Potenza

All About Wildfires does a great job of combining text with visuals to get points across. There are quite a few graphic representations that are great for illustrating how to communicate information or data in different ways. There is a nice experiment at the end to explore the relationship between trees/vegetation and landslides.

 

 

Over the past year, wildfires have been rather prominent in my life. New Jersey – where I live – had a near record drought last year. This brought on almost daily wildfires, all over the state. Recently, a fire burned along the Jersey Shore, making its way onto the state’s most destructive fires list. This “Jones Road” fire was spotted April 22 and reached 100% containment just before I started writing this post on May 12. This fire was one of many around the U.S. that have garnered lots of attention in the news due to their severity.

So, on to activities that can connect readers with these books.

Explore Fire Science

In addition to activities given in some of the books, there are some great science experiments that explore fire. Here are a few.

See first-hand the role oxygen plays in fire using tealight candles and different sized jars. Here’s one version of this activity on Education.com: https://www.education.com/activity/article/candle-snuffing-contest

Fire Extinguisher Experiment from Science Explorers:  https://scienceexplorers.com/diy-fire-extinguisher-experiment-for-kids

There is a lesson plan, including links to videos and other resources, along with a matchstick forest fire demonstration on the Headwaters Science Institute web site: https://headwatersscienceinstitute.org/wildfire-science

Explore Fire Data

Fire data is provided in the books in different ways. Look into data that’s available and consider creating your own.

Check out the National Risk Index from FEMA: https://hazards.fema.gov/nri/wildfire – explore the map to determine what the fire risk is in your area.

If you want to do a deep dive, the USDA has a website called Wildfire Risk to Communities (https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/fire/wildfirerisk). You can put in your state or other community name and explore different wildfire risks, like the risk to homes. This website describes how it calculated risk, as well as ways to reduce that risk.

If you want to create some graphs, here’s one source of data. You can graph the number of fires and/or the number of acres burned in the U.S. over time using data from the National Interagency Fire Center: https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/statistics/wildfires. You could also do some calculations, like figuring out the average number of acres each fire burned each year.

Explore Stewardship

Many of the books discuss stewardship of the land. This year, I enrolled in the Rutgers Environmental Steward program (https://envirostewards.rutgers.edu), so this is something I’ve thought a lot about lately.

What does land stewardship mean? You could explore this topic individually, in small groups, or as a larger group. It might work best to do a combination of all three. A good place to start might be to read a definition of stewardship. Then think about what this means in relation to land. How does land stewardship impact natural disasters like wildfires? What is each individual’s role in the stewardship of our shared lands?

Explore More

There are other places where you can explore wildfire topics in more depth. One is a website from the National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fire/fire-in-depth.htm, which is part of an even broader topic: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fire/wildland-fire-subject.htm. This is an incredible rabbit hole you could dive into, learning about wildland fire careers, fire ecology, fire behavior, and much more.

If you want to learn more about the different causes of wildfires, check out this page from the National Interagency Fire Center: https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/fire-prevention-education-mitigation/wildfire-investigation. If you want a real challenge, see if you can find out the causes of the past year’s wildfires in your state. Then think about how you can present that information using graphs and charts.

Explore headlines and other news sources to see what wildfires are making the news today.

There are lots of other resources out there. Pick a topic and see where the exploration takes you.

 

There are endless activities that could be tied into this topic. Hopefully the few listed here inspire you to explore more.


Janet Slingerland has written over 2 dozen books for young readers. To find out more about Janet and her books, check out her website: http://janetsbooks.com

STEM Tuesday– Natural Disasters– Book List

 

Natural disasters are a source of concern and curiosity. The titles below get to the heart of the science, providing great information for kids who want to dig deeper into the subject. From volcanoes to hurricanes, tornadoes to floods – these books will give readers answers, and helpful advice on how to prepare for such an event.

 

The Science of Natural Disasters: When Nature and Humans Collide

 

The Science of Natural Disasters: When Nature and Humans Collide

by Diane C. Taylor

A great introduction to the science of natural disasters like wildfires, floods, tsunamis, earthquakes, and their effects on humans. Kids can work with investigative activities, brainstorm solutions, and even learn about different careers related to studying, managing and finding solutions to natural disasters.

 

 

Science Comics: Wild Weather: Storms, Meteorology, and Climate

 

Science Comics: Wild Weather: Storms, Meteorology and Climate

written by MK Reed, illustrated by Jonathan Hill

Using a graphic novel format and a fictitious weatherman, this book introduces readers to the basics of meteorology – the water cycle, tornadoes, hurricanes, and the causes and effects of climate change. An accessible book to grasp information

 

 

 

Fire Escape: How Animals and Plants Survive Wildfires (Books for a Better Earth)

 

Fire Escape: How Animals and Plants Survive Wildfires

by Jessica Stremer, illustrated by Michael Garland

An engagingly written, beautifully illustrated book on how animals and plants detect and respond to wildfires, how they have adapted to them, and how climate change is affecting these events.

 

 

 

 

 

They Hold the Line: Wildfires, Wildlands, and the Firefighters Who Brave Them

by Dan Paley, illustrated by Molly Mendoza

A dramatic look into the complex and dangerous work of first responders, this book takes the reader on a gripping mission to battle wildfires. An accessible, informative book.

 

 

 

All About Earthquakes: Discovering How Earth Moves and Shakes

by Libby Romero

Readers will learn the causes and the effects of earthquakes, how they are measured, and much more. Full of activities and photographs.

 

 

 

 

The Big One: The Cascadia Earthquakes and the Science of Saving Lives

by Elizabeth Rusch

The author follows scientists as they dig into the earth, into historical records and lake and ocean soil to find when the next massive earthquake is due in the Pacific Northwest, and what we can do about it to save lives.

 

 

Mountain of Fire: The Eruption and Survivors of Mount St Helens

by Rebecca E. F. Barone

The exciting true-life account of the eruption of Mount St Helens in 1980, recounted through the lives of scientists, survivors and others, gives readers insight into what a volcanic eruption and the aftermath is really like.

 

 

 

 

 

Volcano: Where Fire and Water Meet

by Cerullo, Mary M.

Everyone knows about the destructive forces of a volcano, but not what happens after it has finished erupting. Discover what volcanoes have in common with coral reefs and sea life, uncover long kept secrets, and follow along on an adventure as the author weaves together science, history and mythology to lead readers on an exciting journey into the world of volcanoes.

 

 

 

The Deadliest Hurricanes Then and Now

by Deborah Hopkinson

Meteorologists have the capability of tracking storms today, but that wasn’t always the case. In 1900, a devastating storm hit Galveston, Texas – inspiring the beginnings of meteorology. Follow this fast-paced storm as the author brings it to life with photographs, charts and illustrations and discover where the science of hurricanes and weather began.

 

 

 

 

 

Eyewitness: Hurricane & Tornado

by Jack Challone

This book is a handy guide to the dangerous and destructive powers of hurricanes and tornadoes. With the help of amazing images, models and illustrations, readers will get a unique view of these fascinating and catastrophic weather conditions. Learn techniques developed to forecast weather and discover some stories that you might not believe are true!

 

 

 

Tsunamis: Causes and Effects

by Eamonn Corrigan

Open up this book to get the facts about tsunamis. Both dangerous and destructive, learn about what causes them, dive into the history of the world’s worst ones, and discover safety tips on how to survive one, as you explore a world of statistics, sidebars and other fascinating information.

 

 

 

Natural Disasters: A Collection of Inspiring Survival Stories and Facts about Friendship, Courage, and Rescue to Motivate Young Smart Minds

 

Natural Disasters: A Collection of Inspiring Survival Stories and Facts about Friendship, Courage, and Rescue to Motivate Young Smart Minds

by Michelle Burton

With this book readers will discover the how’s and why’s of natural disasters. They’ll launch into exciting survival stories to discover inspirational life-saving tips. Anyone who is fascinated by the science of natural disasters will come away with the tools they need to tackle the challenges after reading this book.

 

 

 

1000+ Natural Disaster Facts for Kids: Tsunami, Hurricane, Tornado, Volcano, Earthquakes, Storm and more for Kids

 

1000+ Natural Disaster Facts for Kids: Tsunami, Hurricane, Tornado, Volcano, Earthquakes, Storm and more for Kids

by Ntormy Kampless

Filled with fun facts and interesting illustrations, this book explores natural disasters in an engaging way. From tornadoes to volcanoes to earthquakes, this book brings these events to life.

 

 

 

 

 

Extreme Weather for Kids: Lessons and Activities All About Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Blizzards, and More! 

This book uses reports and photos from the field to give readers hands-on weather studies activities.  It’s action-packed, full of fascinating information, and easy for readers to engage with; providing an exciting introduction to meteorology.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Susan Summers is a wildlife enthusiast and an author. Contact her at: https://susan-inez-summers.weebly.com/

 

 

Shruthi Rao is an author. Her home on the web is https://shruthi-rao.com

 

 

Find Awesome STEM books, classroom activities, writing tips, and MORE

Looking for STEM books and activities to use in your classroom or homeschool? Our STEM Tuesday post has that all and MORE.

STEM Tuesday shines the light on books about this amazing and critical topic. With all that is going on in the news lately, it is more important than ever to introduce young readers to the FUN and exciting STEM books that are out there.

STEM books ENGAGE. EXCITE. and INSPIRE young and old readers alike.

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<a href="http://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/school">School vector created by Freepik</a>

Image by Freepik.com

 

They encourage students to ask questions, have discussions, engage in problem-solving, and interact across boundaries of knowledge. They invite readers to notice the science all around them!

If you’ve always wondered where to find out about the great new middle grade  titles in STEM , look no further.  You have FOUND your spot!

It’s Searchable! With over 50 different topics, you’ll find just the right book,

activity, or writing tip you need!

https://fromthemixedupfiles.com/stem-tuesday/

 

 

How does STEM Tuesday work? 

EVERY MONTH  we highlight middle grade books with a particular topic in STEM

EACH WEEK we delve into the ways these books can be used in the classroom, offering resources for how to make connections between these STEM books and other topics,  making real-life connections to these STEM books that will encourage discussions and provide valuable resources, and finally we will be offering an interview with a real-life STEM author plus a giveaway of their book!

We have an amazing team of middle grade STEM authors and enthusiasts to bring the excitement of this topic alive.

Let me introduce you to the weekly topics and the fabulous STEM Tuesday Team:

Week 1:  STEM Book List of the Month

This week will highlight a list of 8-10 titles of STEM middle grade books that fit our theme of the month. They will all have links and a bit of information to intrigue you into learning more about them.

Week 2: STEM Tuesday In the Classroom

This week’s post will highlight a few of the books on week 1’s list and give teachers/librarians specific activities for using these books in the classroom. Designed for hands -on activities, discussions, engaging inquiry and MORE!

 

WEEK 3:  STEM Tuesday Crafts & Resources

An out-of-the-box way to use these STEM books in the classroom, library, or at home. Could be an ELA-Science type connection AND/OR a Real-World connection, or even genres of STEM books, how to write, them… whatever. Like the scientists many of us are, this week may be unexpected, but will always be EXCITING!  

 

WEEK 4: STEM Tuesday Author Interviews and Giveaways

This week  highlights one middle-grade STEM book author. You will get a peek inside the mind of an actual STEM author and learn how and why they wrote their book. Be sure to comment this week because you will be entered to win an autographed copy of the book!

 

 

Created by me, Jennifer Swanson, STEM Tuesday was established in 2017. CHECK OUT OUR AMAZING TEAM MEMBERS!!

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Science Rocks! And so do Jennifer Swanson’s books. She is the award winning author of over 25 nonfiction books for children. A self-professed science geek, Jennifer started a science club in her garage at the age of 7. While no longer working from the garage, Jennifer’s passion for science resonates in in all her books but especially, BRAIN GAMES (NGKids) and SUPER GEAR: Nanotechnology and Sports Team Up (Charlesbridge) which was named an NSTA Best STEM book of 2017 and an NSTA Outstanding Trade Book 2017Top reviews include a starred review in Booklist, and recommended reviews from School Librarians Workshop, Library Media Connection, and a Nerdy Book Club award. Her book, Geoengineering Earth’s Climate: Resetting the Thermostat, from 21st Century Books/ Lerner received a Junior Library Guild Selection. You can visit Jennifer at her website www.JenniferSwansonBooks.com.