Seahorses

It does not foster the development of scientific processes. This book introduces the seahorse and provides information regarding how the seahorse functions throughout its life. There's not an investigation or presentation of scientific processes.

Author: Jennifer Keats Curtis
Illustrator: Chad Wallace
Year Published: 2012
ISBN: 978-0-8050-9239-4 (hc)

Summary

One day, a baby seahorse is born, turning and tumbling as he floats through ocean currents alongside his three hundred brothers and sisters. Like a tiny, mythical dragon, the seahorse is a fascinating creature: he changes color to fit in with the surroundings of his spectacular coral reef and sea grass surroundings; his lizard-like eyes can look in two directions at once; and when he has grown, he―not the female―will give birth to the next batch of whirling seahorses. Jennifer Keats Curtis's evocative language and Chad Wallace's shimmering illustrations tell the story of the seahorse's amazing life beneath the waves.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

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

This book does provide an opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions. The book provides new vocabulary words and then describes what they mean or are in relation to the seahorse's life.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

The book encourages children to think for themselves by providing them with an informational story and allows them to make inferences and think deeply about seahorses.

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

I believe that the text is appropriately informational, yet also includes a story that will keep students engaged and interested in the information about seahorses. The new vocabulary is presented in an engaging way and each new word is described or defined.

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

The content is based on sound scientific principles and does provide readers with accurate information about seahorses and their habits.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

The book only touches on fact and although there is a story, it still remains factual. Fiction is not addressed nor provided in this particular book. Therefore, fact is not distinguished from fiction in this text.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are clear and accurate in this book. Although, I wonder if this book would be more accurate if it used real pictures of seahorses.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

The book is written at the level of the students of 2nd-4th grade. The vocabulary is difficult which is why I recommend it for those grades.

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

This book does not include a multicultural component. Multicultural aspects could be incorporated based on where seahorses can be found. They are found on islands in shallow waters and the islanders or people around where seahorses are find could be incorporated into the text.

Is the book free from gender bias?

I believe this book is free from gender bias and offers an interesting perspective on male seahorses giving birth.

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

This book emphasizes science, but does not provide a close association with science and other disciplines.

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

This book does present a positive attitude toward science by presenting information about seahorses in a positive and engaging way.

Science Topics

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Maximum Suggested Grade Level