Children's Science Book Database

Stargazers

This book fosters development of processes. The book is written in sequence to ideas introduced, and the processes of stars are accurately written.
  • Author: Gail Gibbons
  • Illustrator: Gail Gibbons
  • Year Published: 1992
  • ISBN: 0-590-47486-3

Science Topics

  • Space Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

  • 2nd Grade

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

  • 4th Grade

Summary

Stargazers is a non-fiction text about what astronomers see in the sky at night. The book presents lots of information regarding stars in relation to the Sun and Earth's positioning in space. Many ideas and concepts are introduced, such as star constellations, telescopes, light travel, and outer space.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

This book fosters development of processes. The book is written in sequence to ideas introduced, and the processes of stars are accurately written.

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

There are many opportunities for children to ask questions. Since there are many vocabulary words being introduced, students are able to think about how things appear, where they come from, their movement and lifetime, etc.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

This book encourages children to think for themselves. They easily wonder about our world and other worlds, where we come from, where we are, and what is in the sky. They are friendly areas in the book where students are able to make predictions and connections to their lives.

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

This science topic is addressed in ways that are appropriate to the lesson. TEKS, standards, and curriculum guidelines are proposed, accomplished, and exceeded in this book.

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

The content is based on sound scientific principles and accurate information is used. There are a few questionable sentences in the book. They are not inaccurate, but should be discussed further with students for clarification.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

This book is very clearly non-fiction for readers.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are accurate representations of constellations, telescopes, galaxies, etc. They are also very bright and colorful, attracting the reader's eye.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

The book is written at the level of my students, which are second graders.

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

The book's illustrations are of all, what seems to be, White Caucasian people. This could present a racial bias.

Is the book free from gender bias?

The book is free of gender bias. There are men and woman drawn into the pictures.

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

This book is only addressing science. There aren't any other disciplines being associated with this book other than astronomy.

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

The book presents a positive attitude toward science and technology. The book is fun and engaging, while also allowing for students to learn more about space science.

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