Examining Geothermal Energy

Gr 6–8—These handsome volumes charge readers with investigating different energy sources. The texts are framed as fictitious research journals that examine the history, science, and future outlook of wind energy, nuclear energy, etc. Pros and cons are included with each option. Using an identical treatment to Cherry Lake's "Language Arts Explorer: Energy Lab" and very similar texts, this series offers some improvements. More pages and an older intended audience allow for more in-depth coverage. Additional historical information, better scientific explanations, and extended future outlooks round-out the content. For example, an entire chapter on fracking is included in Natural Gas but only briefly mentioned in the comparable volume in "Energy Lab." The larger format accommodates clear color photos and diagrams missing from that set. The questions in the concluding chapter of every volume provide opportunities for written and oral analysis and debate, requiring a thorough understanding of the text. Three suggested activities, which include guiding questions, could inspire readers to pursue further exploration.