Synergy: Architecture

Architecture is the art, science, and practice of designing and constructing structures such as buildings, bridges, and outdoor spaces.

Read the recently published work of nonfiction for youth then learn more at the website.

ADVENTURES IN ARCHITECTURE FOR KIDS by Vicky Chan is the second book in the new Design Genius Jr. series. The book features 30 design projects for children. Each hands-on activity explores a different aspect of STEAM discovery and learning associated with the architecture theme including general construction, architecture and history, landscape architecture, sustainable architecture, and city planning. Each project provides an overview, materials and tools needed, step-by-step instructions with photographs, and notes.

Architecture at Home is a web-based project from the Center for Architecture featuring two dozen, hands-on architecture activities for children. These short, easy design projects use readily available materials. Each project includes an overview, videos, step-by-step instructions, and a downloadable PDF.

To learn more, go to https://bit.ly/2ZKb0u4.

Use the book and website in a makerspace exploring architecture themes.

ARC courtesy of Rockport Publishers, an imprint of the Quarto Group.

Website: Tinkercad

TINKERCAD from Autodesk is a free online collection of 3D design and engineering tools created for students.

This easy-to-use app helps students apply 3D design, electronics, and coding skills. Users can begin using the tool immediately. Or, they can explore the gallery for ideas. Learning tools are built into the software. Lessons are available to teach 3D design, electronics, and coding skills.

Librarians will find these tools provide a fun way to introduce design and engineering concepts. The tools provide an easy introduction to 3D design.

To visit the website, go to https://www.tinkercad.com.

App Review: Truss Me!

TRUSS ME! from Scientific Monkey is an inexpensive app that teaches students to design structures.

Available at both the App Store and Google Play, this physics-based simulation experience helps users learn how truss structures work through fun interactive experiences. The program applies state-of-the-art techniques used by aerospace, mechanically and civil engineers to simulate real-world designs.

Librarians will find that this fun app provides an excellent introduction to the physics of truss structures. Combine the app with a maker space area that provides hands-on materials for trying out designs. Also, incorporate it into the STEAM program in the engineering area.

To learn more, go to http://www.scientificmonkey.com.

Website Review: Smithsonian Encyclopedia

The SMITHSONIAN ENCYCLOPEDIA provides access to a multitude of online resources through an easy-to-use interface.

The online encyclopedia is organized into themes including Art and Design, History and Culture, Science and Technology, Mysteries of the Universe, A Biodiverse Planet, World Cultures, and The American Experience. Each section provides links to activities and games, fact sheets, online exhibitions, online features, reading lists, and research resources. While the resources are designed for the general public, they’re very useful for middle and high student projects.

Users can also explore by topic from aeronautics to women’s history or by resource type such as activities, games, online features, and teacher resources.

The Kids Favorites section is specifically designed for children. It provides access to dozens of activities and games found throughout the Smithsonian website. It also provides access to Fact Sheets that would be great for informational reading activities. Online Exhibitions of particular interest to youth are also provided including topics such as Abraham Lincoln, Butterflies, and Dinosaurs. Online Features include Invention Stories, Lewis and Clark resources, and the Dynamic Earth.

Librarians will want to spend some time mining this wonderful online resource matching the information sources with specific curriculum area needs.

To explore the website, go to http://www.si.edu/Encyclopedia.

Book Review: 125 COOL INVENTIONS

125 COOL INVENTIONS: SUPERSMART MACHINES AND WACKY GADGETS YOU NEVER KNEW YOU WANTED! is the latest amazing addition to the “125” collection from National Geographic Kids.

From a fish toilet tank and mobile sauna to a multicopter, this book is chuck-full of incredible inventions. Designed for middle-grade students, each two-page spread is filled with colorful photographs of inventions along with descriptions and interesting facts.

At three points in the book, sets of seven-related finds, gadgets, or ideas are presented. Otherwise, readers are bombarded with one invention after another in no particular order. However, a table of contents and index are provided for those interested in a particular topic or category of invention.

Youth never tire of these highly-illustrated National Geographic Kids books. They’re perfect for reluctant readers and those who enjoy short descriptions rather than long narratives. Highlighted words draw reader interest and feature key scientific ideas.

Lovers of engineering and inventions will flock to the library for this attractive and amazing book. Librarians might as well buy multiple copies with the library binding because this book will be in constant circulation.

Children can go to the website to vote for their favorite inventions at http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/exp…/125-cool-inventions/.

Published by National Geographic Kids, May 12, 2015