Children's Science Book Database

Rocks: Hard, Soft, Smooth, and Rough

Yes. This book talks about the processes of how igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks form. It classifies different types of rocks.
  • Author: Natalie Rosinsky
  • Illustrator: Matthew John
  • Year Published: 2003
  • ISBN: 978-1-4048-0015-1

Science Topics

  • Earth Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

  • 1st Grade

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

  • 3rd Grade

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Yes. This book talks about the processes of how igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks form. It classifies different types of rocks.

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

No, it doesn't. It is a fact based book, and presents the facts without inquiry.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

Not really. Because it does not follow a story, and simply presents the facts about different types of rocks. There is little inquiry or room for them to wonder about rocks.

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

Yes. This is a great factual resource. It explains rock formation in a way that is grade appropriate.

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

Yes, it is accurate. The back contains a glossary of terms, and it has pages with more resources and books for further investigation of the subject.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

There is no fiction in this book. It is all factual.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

Yes. It is a collage style illustration with clear images. The materials picked for the rocks were chosen to mimic what they look like in real life.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

Yes. The text is easy to read because it uses simple grade appropriate language, and has a large font. A student could go back to this book on their own.

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

Although there are not many illustrations of children, the few that are there appear culturally diverse. Besides that all illustrations and text focuses on rocks.

Is the book free from gender bias?

There is not much about humans in this book, so there is no gender bias.

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

It mentions art and how artists might use rocks in their craft. It also talks about ancient peoples and how they used rocks to survive.

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

Yes. I think it tries to make rocks engaging and relevant with fun facts and colorful illustrations.

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