Wedges Make a Point: Simple Machines for Kids
by Andi Diehn (Author) Micah Rauch (Illustrator)
Learn how simple machines make work easier in these colorful nonfiction picture books all about science and engineering!
How do you keep a truck from rolling? A door from closing? And how do you cut through banana bread?
All of these questions have the same answer―a wedge! Wedges are one of the simple machines that help make work easier by using mechanical advantage. In Wedges Make a Point: Simple Machines for Kids, readers ages 5 to 8 learn how a wedge’s shape makes it perfect at stopping something heavy from moving, and separating material to split something―like banana bread―apart.
Scientific concepts including forces and mechanical advantage come clear with engaging illustrations and lots of real-life examples that kids can spot in their home, schools, and neighborhoods.
An introductory poem offers language arts connections while a hands-on activity at the end reinforces concepts in the book. A glossary and photographs offer even more supplemental learning opportunities.
Wedges Make a Point is part of a six-book set of Picture Book Science books designed to introduce young engineers to physical science concepts. Other titles are Screws Keep Things Secure, Inclined Planes Ramp It Up, Pulleys Pull Their Weight, Wheels Make the World Go Round, and Levers Lessen the Load.
All books are leveled for Guided Reading level and Lexile and align with Common Core state standards and Next Generation Science Standards.
All titles are available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats.
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School Library Journal
K-Gr 3--Humorous illustrations featuring diverse characters introduce children to simple machines and their uses through familiar examples. Screws may be used to assemble a tree house, or ramps may help someone in a wheelchair access the library. Funny situations like using a pulley to lift an elephant off a book are also provided. Glossary terms are bold within the text, while other key words may appear in a different color or font size for emphasis. Diagrams show how force is redirected or focused by each simple machine. Photos of simple machines in action are included within the glossary. Directions in the back of each book help readers with hands-on activities such as constructing a water wheel or designing a marble run. Free classroom guides are available through the publisher's website. VERDICT The combination of humor and everyday experiences make this an enjoyable introduction to simple machines for primary grades.
Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.Review quotes
Praise for other books by Andi Diehn in the Picture Book Science series
Story Monsters"Science can be fun for your children when they try the STEM activities included in this beautifully illustrated science book about waves."
Andi Diehn is a writer and editor with an MFA in Creative Writing from Vermont College. She is the author of the Picture Book Science series, Shakespeare: Investigate the Bard's Influence on Today's World, Technology: Cool Women Who Code, and Explore Poetry!, all from Nomad Press. She lives in Enfield, New Hampshire, with her family.
Katie Mazeika is an illustrator with a focus in children's publishing. She loves creating illustrations with a strong narrative that are filled with color and texture. Her illustrations are primarily done in Photoshop. Katie is a member of the SCBWI.
JNF051120 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Technology | How Things Work/Are Made
