The Book of Totally Irresponsible Science: 64 Daring Experiments for Young Scientists by Sean Connelly

Product Details

Synopsis

What could be more fun for kids than to have the kind of rip-roaring good time that harkens back to pre-video game, pre-computer days? Introducing 64 valuable science experiments that snap, crackle, pop, ooze, crash, boom, and stink! From Marshmallows on Steroids to Home-Made Lightning, the Sandwich Bag Bomb to Giant Air Cannon, The Book of Totally Irresponsible Science awakens kids' curiosity while demonstrating scientific principles like osmosis, air pressure, and Newton's Third Law of Motion.

Kids will love performing these experiments, which use common household ingredients and equipment, in front of an audience or for themselves (though many require adult supervision). Entries are categorized into seven chapters according to scientific theme and are written in a simple-to-follow recipe format. each includes a detailed explanation of the scientific principle involved and a "Take Care!" section with special tips. The book's design and illustrations recall the pulp fiction look of science magazines from the days when space travel was still considered sci-fi, while the author's voice is wry and a bit conspiratorial. He assumes his readers are clever and never coddles them. Drop Mentos into a bottle of diet soda and stand back as a geyser erupts! Launch a rocket made from a film canister! Encase your little brother in a giant soap bubble! For young scientists—and the young at heart—this book is a blast. Literally.

Children's Literature

Don't panic. "Irresponsible," as used here, is a relative term. The science results may ooze, stink, boom, or be downright messy, but there is nothing dangerous or otherwise irresponsible about them. The experiments are kid-friendly and demonstrate sound scientific principles. The book is divided into seven chapters, each containing experiments that demonstrate a different scientific principle. Each of the experiments contains a short paragraph to introduce the nature of the experiment, explain what type of result can be achieved and, for some, detail how to crank up the "irresponsibility factor" in order to fool a younger brother or sister. Experiments are presented in recipe format, including time necessary from initial preparation to end product, the list of needed ingredients and step-by-step methodology for achieving the desired results. The experiments are easy to follow, and most can be done independently; only those that involve an open flame require adult supervision. "Take Care" sections list any special precautions necessary (e.g., "do this outdoors"), while "The Scientific Excuse" sections explain the science behind the results and, for some, how to make the results even more dramatic and produce a much messier, louder, or yuckier reaction. Backmatter includes a list of experiments organized by time necessary for completion and three blank, lined pages for student notes. With illustrations reminiscent of 1950s science fiction cartoons, it all adds up to some "irresponsible" yet educational fun, perfect for upper elementary science classrooms or scout troops. Reviewer: Pat Trattles

Biography

Sean Connolly has written more than 50 books for children and adults. A father of three, he's ideally suited to explain the nuts and bolts of these fantastic experiments.