Explore Rivers and Ponds with 25 Great Projects

Gr 1–4—An overview of freshwater formations along with information regarding food chains, conservation, and plant and animal life concomitant to water biomes are further supported by historical facts. Projects utilizing everyday items such as pencils, jars, and cardboard introduce characteristics of water such as evaporation and land erosion and range from weaving cattails to collecting tadpoles for observation. Fun yet informative line drawings elucidate an equally clear narrative, allowing readers to pool a reservoir of facts that can run close to home when websites such as the EPA's are offered with the suggestion that students can "figure out the path of water that flows from your school." There are word boxes throughout and a glossary in the back build vocabulary. Additional resources include a list of museums and aquariums to visit.—Kathryn Diman, Bass Harbor Memorial Library, Bernard, ME