Out of the Ocean

This book fosters developmental processes because it shows how a girl and her mother learn about the beach through physical exploration. They go to the beach and make observations about their findings. The book encourages observing and making inquiries on findings. Also, it shows how the child and her mother notice different things despite being on the same beach.

• Author: Debra Frasier
• Illustrator: Debra Frasier
• Year Published: 1998
• ISBN: 0-15-258849-3

Science Topics

• Earth Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• Prekindergarten

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 1st Grade

Summary

This story is about a girl and her mother and their experiences with the ocean. They discuss their findings, which include both nature, such as the sand, ocean, and sun, and hidden treasures found on the beach, such as driftwood, glass, and a message in a bottle. The end of the book includes definitions of all the terms in the book.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

This book fosters developmental processes because it shows how a girl and her mother learn about the beach through physical exploration. They go to the beach and make observations about their findings. The book encourages observing and making inquiries on findings. Also, it shows how the child and her mother notice different things despite being on the same beach.

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

Yes, the book introduces a lot of new vocabulary. The children may be curious about the new words and can refer to context, the illustrations, or the definitions in the back of the book.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Yes, the children may draw on their own experiences and observations from their times at the beach. Maybe they would like to share their own stories and findings.

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

Yes, if the lesson is about characteristics of a typical beach, then the book describes in great detail.

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

The content is accurate. It mentions the water, sand, shells, and sun that are found at the beach. Also, the back of the book has accurate definitions of the vocabulary.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

The book does. At the beginning, the story takes on a perspective of asking the beach for the sun, but by the end, the book makes the distinction that you do not need to ask for the sun. Rather, you need to remember to look for it because it is already there.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

Yes, the illustrations are a mixture between photos and pictures of nature.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes, I observe kindergarten.

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

This book is free from stereotyping but does not have a multicultural component.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes, this book is mostly about the ocean, an experience shared by a girl and her mother.

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

This book relates science, familial relationships, and photography (if one pays attention to the illustrations).

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

Yes, this book includes photography of the ocean, linking the two fields.