JUNK DRAWER ECOLOGY

Easy craft activities teach readers concepts of ecology.

Divided into four sections: “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,” “Animals and Plants,” “Water and Land,” and “Air,” this immersive and imaginative book introduces readers, through simple craft projects, to the scientific principles that affect and explain the ecology of our planet. Using commonly available household supplies—with an emphasis on repurposing plastic bottles and paper—the activities range from making a solar oven from a pizza box and making “plastic” from milk and vinegar to learning how to estimate population sizes through random sampling. “The Science Behind It,” an accompanying paragraph at the conclusion of each project, explains the activity’s scientific basis and its broader ecological applications. Activities range from those safe for preschoolers to ones that need adult supervision (e.g., use of a microwave or knives) and are clearly specified in the “Science for the Ages” section after each activity; this paragraph is written for adults and gives additional research ideas. With the book’s  emphasis on positivity and hands-on science, kids are empowered to learn through doing. Who could resist making “Tasty Soil”—layers of cookies, whipped cream, and sprinkles—to learn about the strata of bedrock, subsoil, and topsoil, or using small fish-shaped crackers to understand sustainable fishing techniques? No frills (but clear) black-and-white photographs accompany the step-by-step text and aid in understanding each craft step.

Highly recommended for educators, home-schoolers, and any curious kid.