From: Lisa Von Drasek <lisav_at_bankstreet.edu>
Date: Fri, 02 Mar 2012 21:00:12 -0500

We have been thinking about this a lot lately.

As Megan stated, "We’ve think the best books incorporate everything fro m terrific organization and compelling visual matter to a narrative that’ s hard to put down."

The picture book format is a popular one for classroom teachers...it can be read aloud and discussed in one class period. The subject matter can be extended and enhanced with additional materials. Some are great read-alouds while others are books to be poured over.

We are particularly interested this year is outstanding Science, Technology, Engineering and Math picture books for 3rd and 4th grade as Bank Street College is launching a science children's choice award this March, providing four excellent titles to librarians and teachers.

What are we looking for? Accuracy, outstanding writing and illustration, a great read aloud, engaging and developmentally relevant subject matter, and sources.

Members of this list will be familiar with a few of the contenders...

Melissa Sweet's Balloon's Over Broadway for its compelling narrative of a creative inventor. Her illustrations that combine watercolor and archival materials display a unique perspective. A joy to share with children. Extensive further reading.

Jenny Offill and Nancy Carpenter's 11 Experiments that Failed is sparking interesting conversations... how do we define hypotheses? Can a silly fun book be a science book? (with a capitol S?)

Meadowlands by Thomas Yezerski is draws us into the natural history of the meadowlands environment. The detailed watercolors are field guide to the flora and fauna as well as a look at the impact humans have on the land.

A panel of math/science teachers, faculty and museum professional will be selecting from a short list of 15 titles provided by the Children's Book Committee of Bank Street. I can't wait to hear from them about these books as content experts.
Received on Fri 02 Mar 2012 09:00:12 PM CST