BOOK PROJECT

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE END OF COURSE PROJECT - WRITING A CHILDREN’S BOOK

WHAT TO DO:

1. Research – Source suitable models/books from the library. Watch some cartoons.

2. Brainstorm – Discuss ideas you could use to create your own book.

- What types of stories appeal to young children?

- How do authors grab the attention of a young reader?

- What kinds of words/language are used for audiences around the ages of 8 to 10?

- How do the illustrations help the young reader understand the story?

3. Choose a theme:

scientific methods species interactions

making informed decisions biodiversity

ecosystems (everything is connected) water use and management

evolution water pollution

the diversity of living things air pollution

energy flow in ecosystems acid precipitation

how ecosystems change (succession) the ozone

freshwater or marine ecosystems global warming

nonrenewable/renewable resources food and agriculture

garbage/waste the environment and health

4. Choose a book type – Narrative or Informative

A. Narrative structure:

Intro, development of a plot, climax, resolution

B. Informative structure:

Intro/background, information (facts/problems/solutions), conclusion/wrap-up

Complete the following preliminary information (15 points):

Group members and topic:

List and define the 10 vocabulary words and/or concepts that will be included:

10.

Short paragraph describing book idea:

Final copy checklist (150 points)

- submitted on time 15

- front/back cover to book 10/5

- bound like a book (not stapled in the corner) 5

- title/author page (separate from covers) 5

- neatness 15

- color illustrations 20

- length requirement met (14-20 story pages) 10

- layout and organization of the book 15

(does the order of information make sense)

- environmental topic/theme addressed accurately 30

(are facts, themes, vocabulary words introduced)

- geared toward and understandable by children 15

(are the items above explained appropriately)

- entertaining 5