Teaching Science Through Trade Books

The use of trade books to supplement science textbooks in the classroom is a proven, effective strategy to combine science and reading education for children in a way that is genuinely interesting to them. In the new NSTA Press book Teaching Science Through Trade Books, authors Christine Anne Royce, Emily Morgan, and Karen Ansberry compiled 50 entries from their popular “Teaching Through Trade Books” column in NSTA’s journal Science and Children. These engaging, ready-to-teach lessons each highlight two trade books and suggest two related activities, one for K–3 and one for grades 4–6. Topics in the collection cover a wide range of science disciplines, including Engineering, Technology, and Applications of Science; Physical Science; Life Science; and Earth and Space Science. Trade books such as How is a Pencil Made? and The Man Who Walked Between the Towers are sure to grab students’ attention, introduce science ideas, and ensure that the subsequent lessons are enjoyed and absorbed. Teaching Science Through Trade Books is a valuable resource for teachers as it offers appealing, effective activities to accompany beloved and educational children’s books. To read the free chapter “Cloud Watchers,” click over to the book’s page in the Science Store and look for the link next to “Read inside.” The NSTA’s Picture Perfect Science Lessons Series is another good resource for teachers looking to combine reading and science lessons. The Children’s Book Council and NSTA annually develop a list of Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K–12. It is a great resource for trade books teachers could use in the classroom.