DiSpezio, Michael. Awesome Experiments in Force and Motion. Sterling Publishing; (2006)

Gr. 5-8
ISBN-10: 1402723717
School Library Journal, 07/01/1999


Over 70 physics experiments are presented in five broad areas, covering inertia, buoyancy, surface tension, air pressure, and propulsion. Each entry includes a brief introduction, a list of materials needed, instructions, and a discussion of the scientific theory behind the results. This last section is what really makes the experiments meaningful. Some of the explanations raise questions concerning alternate approaches to the problem or ask readers what would happen if a step were changed or if a different material or item were used. The activities rely primarily on inexpensive household objects for effective results. While easy to duplicate, they demonstrate the intended principles and encourage critical thinking. The author's style is lighthearted but clear. Each experiment is accompanied by at least one cartoonlike black-and-white line drawing that illustrates a step in the process. Safety warnings remind readers to enlist an adult's help whenever sharp edges, heat, or any other hazard is involved. In quality and level of the projects, this book is similar to Robert Gardner's Experiments with Motion (Enslow, 1995). Either one will be adequate in most collections. Jeffrey A. French, Euclid Public Library, OH

Gardner, Robert. Bicycle science projects : physics on wheels. Enslow Publishers; (11/01/2004)

Gr. 7 UP
ISBN: 978-0-7660-1630-9
School Library Journal, 02/01/2005

This intriguing book uses the common bicycle to offer readers a variety of science-fair ideas. Beginning with a history of the bicycle, the book then covers the easier experiments while the more complicated ones are provided in the final two chapters. Solid advice is also offered, such as encouraging students to keep a notebook to record ideas, data, and observations. Each experiment includes a list of the materials required, and many include another box that elaborates on how the ideas presented can be expanded upon. The materials required are items typically found in most households, such as chalk, yardstick, marbles, etc. Experiments include using a bicycle to measure speed and distance, how the force of friction opposes the motion of a bike, and the transfer of energy from rider to bicycle. Simple black-and-white illustrations and photographs help to clarify the scientific principles presented. A useful and potentially fun approach to science.–Maren Ostergard, Bellevue Regional Library, WA School Library Journal, A Reed Business Information Publication

Gardner, Robert. Experiments with Motion. Enslow Publishers; (11/01/1995)

Gr. 4-7
ISBN 0-89490-667-4
BookList, 02/01/1996

Gardner offers basic information and practical ideas for learning about motion and light. Each book explains general principles, then suggests a number of activities using simple equipment to explore basic ideas. Line drawings and diagrams illustrate the books. Light uses mirrors, mylar, prisms,cardboard, and water for a variety of science activities demonstrating the properties of light. Motion begins with a chapter of activities exploring Newton's laws of motion. The remaining chapters consider motion in people, animals, vehicles, and colliding objects. Boxed "puzzlers" and "surprises" suggest intriguing lines of thought that are explained at the end of each book. A good resource for project ideas, this book would work even better as a classroom guide to hands-on science. ((Reviewed Feb. 1, 1996)) -- Carolyn Phelan. Booklist, published by the American Library Association.

Gardner, Robert. Science projects about the physics of sports. Enslow Pub Inc; (01/01/2000)

Gr. 6-9
ISBN: 978-0-7660-1167-0
School Library Journal, 07/01/2000

In Sports, students will learn how to hone their basketball, baseball, and hockey skills and see why professional athletes use the techniques they do. Projects include determining whether passes are really faster, experimenting with the angle at which a football is kicked to go the greatest distance, and finding the best angle for making basketball shots from the floor. Some of the information is duplicated in Gardner's Experimenting with Science in Sports (Watts, 1993). Magic encompasses everything from optics to chemistry to motion. While the introduction contains a thorough section on safety, and some experiments require adult supervision, a few of the activities seem potentially dangerous. For example, one "trick" requires that a lit flashlight bulb be immersed in a glass of water. While there is not enough current to hurt someone seriously, it could pose a problem. Instructions are clearly outlined in succinct and informative narratives that include lists of required materials. Each title includes at least 40 ideas, plus suggestions for further explorations. Projects appropriate for a science fair are starred in the table of contents. Tables, charts, and black-and-white line drawings supplement the texts nicely.-Maren Ostergard, Bellevue Regional Library, WA Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.

Goodstein, Madeline P. Sports science projects : the physics of balls in motion. Enslow Publishers; 10/01/1999

Gr. 6-10
ISBN: 978-0-7660-1174-8
School Library Journal, 03/01/2000

This well-organized, clearly written series title will get readers thinking about why a baseball has stitches, why a tennis ball has fuzz, and how a Ping-Pong ball will change if its center is filled. Exciting experiments demonstrate the differences among the types of balls used in sports and the relationship between design and performance. Many of the experiments are followed by excellent ideas for science-fair projects. Black-and-white diagrams and drawings illustrate the concepts discussed. This valuable, practical resource encourages exploration and experimentation.-Paul Bielich, Northwestern High School, Detroit, MI Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.