Fictional Stories in Science
Using Fictional Stories as a Pathway to Science Content
Tuesday Morning Reads for December 19th
Typically, when preparing for this post, I go to the library and scan the “new books” section, to pull out any possible science-themed fictional stories. But, I have done that for the past few weeks, and I think I need to give the library some buying time. š So, for this week, and the next few weeks, I decided to go about it more alphabetical. During my last library visit, I scanned the “A” section of picture books to see what I could find.
Turtle in the Sea, by Jim Arnosky: I really enjoyed how the storyline was laid out for this book. It starts with an older turtle making her way to shore to lay eggs, and then it brings the reader’s attention to the scars on her shell. This then becomes the story–how she received those scars, some of which were human interactions. For this reason, this story could be part of so many different units, so many different discussions and investigations.
Douglas, You Need Glasses! by Ged Adamson: Do you wear glasses? Do any of your children or students? If so, then I would have this book in your collection. As a person who has worn glasses since 4th grade, it is difficult to describe what it is like to not be able to see, and what it feels like, emotionally. Granted, I am one who happens to love glasses (I think everyone looks better in glasses), but that is not the case for so many, especially those new to glasses. This is a cute, fun, and clever way to not only share what it is like to need glasses, but what it feels like when you can see clearly. Oh, and I just love how the author used a dog to be the character in need…him chasing a squirrel (which was really a leaf) put such a smile on my face. š For a science connection, there are so many great lab and lab demos about the eye, to really help students understand what is going on.
Fictional Stories in Science 