Secret Science by Steve Spangler Reviews

Two reviews of the book Secret Science.

Rita Hoots (National Science Teachers Association (NSTA))
There is nothing secret about the two dozen short activities listed in this nifty collection of science set-ups that will delight and appeal to audiences from grade school to the post-secondary level. Steve Spangler has complied a series of hands-on activities that youngsters of all ages are capable of performing and that can be deployed in the home, classroom, or on the stage. Many of these demonstrations are already integral parts of the science teacher's curriculum, used to clarify concepts in physics and chemistry. What is really nifty about the publication is its design. The experiments use home-and supermarket-accessible material, procedures are listed in cookbook recipe fashion, set-ups are simply illustrated, safety precautions are clearly cited, and directions are lucid. The reader simply follows the guideline and then observe the "wow" results. Explanations follow that wrap up the procedures and actions to make the basic science premises meaningful realities. The "Soda Can Shake-up," for instance, helps elucidate Boyle's Law. "Floating Ping-Pong Balls" illustrates Bernoulli's Principle, the "Bubbling Lava Bottle" dances to density differences, and other set-ups demonstrate the effects of air pressure forces, the tenacity of surface tension, and inertia related to Newton's Laws of motion and gravity. I have yet to try the explosive "Mentos Geyser Experiment," which just requires Mentos Mints, eye protection, and a 2-liter plastic soda container. Through these activities, the players can transform "magic" into practical and impressive science understanding. The activities are all feasible and will empower youngsters with their ability to work with science and to impress their colleagues and family. It is recommended for home and school. Grades 5-8. 2007, Independent Publishers Group, 96p, $9.95. Ages 10 to 14.

Dorthy A. Billows (Science Books and Films (Vol. 43, No. 5))
Steve Spangler's Secret Science: 25 Science Experiments Your Teacher Doesn't Know About contains 25 inquiry-based experiments for adolescents to do at home. Spangler begins with a note to parents and children about the purpose of the book: to promote curiosity and inquiry in science. His lighthearted approach and sharing of his own son's experience with science help the reader relate to the book. He indicates that not all experiments work the first time. This is an important concept, especially for children who only know classroom experiments directed with step-by-step instructions and with one outcome in mind. The experiments presented help introduce children to inquiry-based investigations in science and promote curiosity. Questions at the end of each experiment encourage students to investigate further. Formulae describe the science concepts, and real-world examples are provided in the "What's Going On Here" section of each experiment. The experiments are clearly written and include diagrams and photographs to enhance the directions. In addition, a list of necessary material is given. . . . Overall, this book adequately introduces fun, interesting, and practical experiments that use everyday material and that promote inquiry into science learning for children from fourth grade through eighth grade. The experiments are clearly described, and safety precautions let the investigator know of potential dangers. Children will learn about science, relate science to the world around them, and increase their curiosity as a result of conducting the experiments presented in this book. I recommend this book, but with the caveat that it lacks ethnic diversity. Recommended, Grades 5-8. 2007, Silverleaf Press, 96pp., $9.95. Ages 10 to 14.

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