Ranger Ricks Nature Scope Astronomy Adventures

Through enjoyable, age-appropriate, indoor and outdoor activities for grades K-8, kids will witness the birth and death of a star...play "Astro Match" and "Solar Scramble"...learn to recognize the constellations...study great moments in space history...make a sundial watch...examine the discoveries and problems of the space program...draw a time line through space...and even join scientists in the search for extraterrestrials! On this fantastic voyage, youngsters will deepen their relationship with space, gain valuable scientific inquiry skills, and be inspired to reach for the stars. A volume in the newly revised NatureScope education series of creative, activities-centered resource books, dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and appreciation of the natural world, while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment.

Astronomy Adventures

The hunt is on. While playing on a beautiful summer day, Wyatt Nystrom and his dog, Benny, find a tennis ball with a mysterious message. The ball is just the hook to get kids like Wyatt and his cousin, Danni, involved in a journey upstream to unravel the madness of the Brandywine. With the help of "creek pals" throughout the watershed and numerous hands-on activities throughout the story, Wyatt and Danni discover a community of natural wonders, scientific studies, folklore, and crazy characters, all brought together by a remarkable creek. This is a story that not only engages the reader with its plot, but also with its interactive approach. It's a novel and an entertaining way to learn about watershed science.

Teach the basics of astronomical and space science using lively retellings of traditional folktales and quality children's literature. Reproducible activities and project ideas that meet NSTA standards combine stories and facts with language arts, math, science, art, and music, using the multiple intelligences approach. An extensive bibliography and other resources, such as addresses for Web sites and organizations in the area of astronomy and space science, are included. Grades 3-6 (adaptable to other levels).