Childrens+Book+Review

Children Book Review

Samantha Myers Dr. Liu Children’s Trade Book Review 10/16/09

Introduction of book: Title - //Children’s Picture Atlas// Author - Ruth Brockleburst Illustrator - Linda Edwards Publisher - Scholastic Inc. Copyright Date - 2003

What is the book about: This beautifully illustrated book takes the young reader on a magical journey around the world where each map contains fascinating details to engage students in classroom discussion. It will catch the eye of any young reader with brightly used colors and pictures. The book contains various topics and vocabulary for the students. Topics that may be found in the book are as follows; the universe, maps, countries and cities, people, transportation, landforms, temperature, countries broken down with information, and the last page is a questionnaire to see what the students have learned or understood from the material. The book contains fact-filled text, which is little bits of information that is interesting or “neat to know”. A contents and index is also provided for the students, which is a great way to get them familiar with text format and style.

What subject areas, content vocabulary or concepts: Subject Areas - Social Studies and Geography Vocabulary or Concepts - Topics that may be found in the book are as follows; the universe, maps, countries and cities, people, transportation, landforms, temperature, countries broken down with information, and the last page is a questionnaire. On these pages the students are provided with information pertaining to the topic as well as a brief definition of the topic.

What NCSS themes, and Pennsylvania Social Studies Standards does it cover: NCSS Themes - cultures; people, places, and environments; individual development and identity; individuals, groups, and institutions; global connections; civic ideals and practices. Pennsylvania Standards 7.1.3 A Identify graphic tolls and their uses. 7.1.3 B Identify and locate the places and regions. 7.2.3 A Identify the physical characteristics of places and regions. 7.2.3 B Identify the basic physical processes that affect the physical characteristics of places and regions. 7.3.3 B Identify the human characteristics of places and regions by their cultural characteristics. 7.3.3 D Identify the human characteristics of places and regions by their economic activities. 1.1.3 B Preview the text format.1.1.3 F Understand the meaning of and use correctly new vocabulary learned in various subject areas.

Which grade level is the book appropriate for: This book is especially designed for children who are beginning to read on their own. With pictures and vocabulary, it makes it easier for the young readers. //Children’s Picture Atlas// is used in grades K thru 2nd.

What is your suggested method to use this book in the classroom: I would place this book in my independent reading area for students to use as a reference text. When discussing Geography or Social Studies I would refer to it as well for the whole class. This book could also be used as a center because of the questionnaire located at the back of the book! I chose this book because of all the topics and uses that it would provide for me in my classroom! Great book to have!