Awesome Snake Science!

Gr 5–8—This collection of hands-on activities is designed to bring the science behind snakes alive for budding ophiologists. The chapters flow logically, beginning with collecting simple snake-study tools and preparing a research journal. The remaining chapters explore the creatures' bodies, adaptations, senses, and protective strategies. Each topic is followed by an activity that brings snakes alive for readers. Most of the projects involve simple crafts or simulations done with common household supplies. Background information leads directly into the accompanying activity and then immediately on to the next topic with minimal section cues. Photographs and black-and-white line drawings illustrate the background information and the steps of the activities. A brief teacher's guide is appended. The variety, originality, and ease of most of the activities assure satisfied readers and repeated use.—Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WI