Equal Shmequal

This book discusses the process of working through problems and measurements. Using measurement and weight fosters a lesson to practice measurements in different ways.

Author: Virginia Kroll
Illustrator: Philomena O'Neil
Year Published: 2005

Summary

Mouse and her friends want to play tug-of-war, but they’ll need to use some everyday math to figure out how to make teams that are equal. As Mouse looks at various solutions she is not sure what it means to be equal. Nothing works until Mouse starts to think about it mathematically and divides the teams based on weight. Wonderful illustrations capture Mouse and her animal friends from whiskers to tails as they work to measure and equalize their teams based on size, weight, and effort.

Evaluation

Appropriateness: High
Authority: High
Accuracy: High
Liteary Artistry: High
Appearance: High

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

This book discusses the process of working through problems and measurements. Using measurement and weight fosters a lesson to practice measurements in different ways.

Does the book provide an opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions?

Yes. This book allows students the opportunity to ask questions about what equal means, and how to be fair in social situations.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Yes. Just like the characters in the book, it encourages students to also do the same thing and think for themselves.

Is the science topic addressed in ways that are appropriate to the lesson?

Yes. It gives situations that students would be used to and can relate to, and can tie into a lesson for measurement that students can engage in as well.

Is the content based on sound scientific principles? Is it accurate?

Yes. With younger grades, it's a good beginning to the lesson about measurement and weight.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

It doesn't explicitly show that animals wouldn't actually be in this situation, but this could be explained in a conversation and classroom discussion.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

Yes

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes, can be taught at any grade level as a read-aloud, or can be read by roughly about 2nd grade.

Is there a multicultural component? Is it free from stereotyping?

It isn't specifically multiculturally relevant, but can be tied into the idea of equity in a community, and ways to foster it.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes

Does the book show the close association between science and other disciplines?

Science and Math through measurement and weight.

Does the book present a positive attitude toward science and technology?

Yes. It encourages using STEM ideas to solve problems in situations outside of the classroom.

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Maximum Suggested Grade Level