From School Library Journal
Grade 2-6-An upbeat blend of science, history, and how-to instruction that will delight children and educators alike. Each chapter consists of numerous short articles combining historical and technical information on the design and construction of bridges with easy hands-on experiments. Contents range from analysis of the arch, beam, and suspension systems to the "care and feeding" of structures and reflections on bridges of the future. Interspersed throughout are simple projects involving building, measurement, or observation, such as testing the strength of varied paper shapes or constructing a Popsicle-stick truss bridge or-for literary types-writing bridge poems. The book concludes with a challenge for young minds to "think outside the box." Students wishing to access the projects quickly can consult the index under "activities." Sidebars such as "Learn the Lingo" and "How It Works" explain key terms and concepts. Others solicit problem-solving responses. Eye-catching photographs and cartoon illustrations in blue and orange tones abound; clear organization of text and unifying page borders create an attractive graphic package. The volume includes a list of notable bridges by state and country; those mentioned in the text are highlighted. This is a good resource for libraries and science centers and will be well thumbed by future generations of bridge builders.
Mary Ann Carcich, Suffolk County Community College Library, Riverhead, NY
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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