Synergy: Ecological Balance

Ecological balance is the state of equilibrium within a dynamic community of organisms. This theory reflects many types of relationships such as predator-prey systems. However, recent theories note that ecological systems are in a constant state of flux leading to a chaotic state as the norm.

Read the recently published nonfiction book for youth then learn more at the websites.

THE WOLVES AND MOOSE OF ISLE ROYALE by Nancy Castaldo is the latest book in the Scientists in the Field series. This highly illustrated work of nonfiction explores the island’s ecosystem with a focus on the predator/prey relationship between wolves and moose. Using color photographs, maps, another other illustrations, readers follow scientists working at Isle Royale. The book concludes with a glossary, additional information, sources, and a bibliography.

ISLE ROYALE: ANIMALS is a website from the US National Park Service that introduces readers to the moose, wolves, and other animals of Isle Royale.

To visit the website, go to https://www.nps.gov/isro/learn/nature/animals.htm.

THE WOLVES AND MOOSE OF ISLE ROYALE is a video exploring 50 years of research about the relationship between wolves and moose.

To watch the video, go to https://youtu.be/PdwnfPurXcs.

RETURN OF THE WOLVES is a video exploring how ecological balance is being restored to Isle Royale.

To watch the video, go to https://youtu.be/k1EaRenqyPo.

ARC courtesy of Clarion Books, and imprint of HarperCollins.

Book Review: Over on a Desert

OVER ON A DESERT: SOMEWHERE IN THE WORLD by Marianne Berkes is a picture book exploration of the driest places on Earth and the animals who live there.

A short description, map, and illustration are provided for each of the ten featured deserts. Each scene shows creatures in their native habitats and are depicted using high-quality collage techniques. In addition to introducing the deserts, the book can also be used as a counting and number book with younger children. The very short narratives will appeal to young readers. The book concludes with additional background information, activity ideas, and even a song.

Librarians will find this book to be a useful read-aloud book for a desert themed unit. Young children and primary-aged youth alike will enjoy both the short narratives and the predictable counting theme. Use this book to kickstart a unit on desert habitats.

Published by Dawn Publications on September 1, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Leaf Litter Critters

LEAF LITTER CRITTERS by Leslie Bulion contains nineteen poems exploring science topics related to decomposers and forest ecology.

Each two-page spread features a short poem, a science note, and a colorful illustration. The book concludes with a glossary, poetry notes, science investigations, a size comparison, and an infographic.

Librarians will find the combination of science and poetry useful for STEAM activities. The colored pages and attractive illustrations will draw student interest. Don’t let this fun book get lost in the poetry section. Work with teachers to integrate it into an elementary, cross curriculum activity.

Published by Peachtree Publishers on March 1, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Digital Spotlight: The Science Collection

THE SCIENCE COLLECTION from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries is a set of digital collections focusing on specific areas of science such as botany, anatomy, and ecology.

Contents: Intended as a resource for the teaching of scientific disciplines the collections include subject-specific resources. Of particular note is the botany collection and veterinary anatomical illustrations.

Classroom Connections: Teachers will find these science resources useful in developing class presentations and as examples in instructional materials. Librarians may wish to partner with teachers to mine the sites for particular collections of interest.

Featured Digital Objects:
Maple Leaf http://digicoll.library.wisc.edu/…/Grou…/reference/32.8r.jpg
Mitosis https://goo.gl/EGHJTP
Animal Anatomy https://goo.gl/EW2r4D

To visit the collection, go to https://uwdc.library.wisc.edu/collections/science/.

Book Review: Greenling

GREENLING by Levi Pinfold is a beautifully illustrated picture book fable.

Designed for the middle grades, this thought-provoking ecological fantasy features a mysterious green baby who stimulates plant growth and the power of nature wherever he goes. This story of the connection between people and the natural world will promote lots of student discussion.

Librarians will want to add this title to their growing collection of picture books for older youth.

To learn more about the author/illustrator, go to http://www.levipinfold.com/.

Published by Templar, an imprint of Random House on February 23, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Learn. Genetics

LEARN. GENETICS from the Genetic Science Learning Center provides high-quality, interactive information about genetics as well as the foundational science related to genetics topics.

Sponsored by the University of Utah, the website is divided into the areas of genetics, cell biology, ecology, human health, neuroscience, and science tools. Each section provides fascinating tutorials and interactives related to core concepts.

The Genetics section begins with a tour of basic genetics. Then, examines specific aspects of the field such as characteristics of inheritance and epigenetics. In addition, it explores practical applications such as pigeon breeding.

Each resource includes interesting information and visuals. Most incorporate interactive elements to keep students interested.

Librarians will find many connections to the science curriculum. Consider working with the science teacher to select specific sections that might be used to introduce or reinforce a science lesson.

To visit the website, go to http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/.