Children's Science Book Database

If You Decide to Go to the Moon

This book does foster the development process because it tells the reader what the process of going into space is like including preparation, the trip, and the return. It also talks about Earth's atmosphere and the surface of the moon.If You Decide to Go to the Moon
  • Author: Faith McNulty
  • Illustrator: Steven Kellogg
  • Year Published: 2005
  • ISBN: 0-590-48359-5

Science Topics

  • Space Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

  • 2nd Grade

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

  • 6th Grade

Summary

A boy will tells the reader how to get to the Moon and what to do after you land. He also tells you how to get back home. The text allows the reader to participate in every aspect of the journey, from packing, to liftoff, to traveling through space. The boy lands at the Sea of Tranquility, the site of the first lunar landing and explores the moon.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

This book does foster the development process because it tells the reader what the process of going into space is like including preparation, the trip, and the return. It also talks about Earth's atmosphere and the surface of the moon.

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

Yes. When children are learning about the what it is like to travel to the moon so naturally questions will come up. But the book does a great job of covering so much information that questions will be answered.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Yes, students can make connections to their own experiences.

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

Yes. This book relates to many science TEKS and would greatly compliment any lesson on the Moon or the Earths atmosphere.

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

Yes. While the book is a story about a child who travels to the moon, the information given to us is based on sound scientific principles.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

The book does not make a clear distinction between fact or fiction, but if a teacher used this book for a read aloud, they can make the distinctions for the students.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are accurate.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

This book is well suited for reader from 2nd to 6th grade.

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

The main character is a male and this might push the sterotype that scientists/ astronauts are males.

Is the book free from gender bias?

The books main character is a white boy which might further the stereotype that only males are scientists/ astronauts.

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

No, the book does not attempt to include other disciplines.

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

Yes, the book shines a good like on space exploration.

Science Topic

  • Earth Science
  • Life Science
  • Physical Science
  • Space Science

Minimum Grade Level

  • Prekindergarten
  • Kindergarten
  • 1st Grade
  • 2nd Grade
  • 3rd Grade
  • 4th Grade
  • 5th Grade
  • 6th Grade

Maximum Grade Level

  • Kindergarten
  • 1st Grade
  • 2nd Grade
  • 3rd Grade
  • 4th Grade
  • 5th Grade
  • 6th Grade
  • 7th Grade
  • 8th Grade

College of Education
Previously Developed for Dr. Anthony Petrosino by the Office of Instructional Innovation