Incredible Edible Science (Scientific American Mysteries of Science)
Scientific American Mysteries of Science Series
What’s inside...
This is an introductory book to the science behind the art of cooking. It answers questions such as: why does water boil?; what makes popcorn pop?; and why do onions bring tears? It is filled with facts, safety tips and recipes from around the world. The book presents a collection of recipes, and explains the scientific principles behind the cooking processes.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you find most surprising about how everyday foods can be used in science experiments?
If you could invent your own edible experiment, what would you try and why?
How do the scientific concepts discussed in the book help us understand our daily meals better?
Which scientist mentioned in the book did you find most interesting and why?
How do you think science can change the way we eat in the future?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own curiosity or a story related to science or cooking. Relate the scientific experiments described in the book to everyday kitchen activities that your child is familiar with. Ask open-ended questions to encourage your child to think critically and creatively. Validate their ideas and build on them, perhaps suggesting a simple related experiment you could try together at home. Share your enthusiasm for discovery, emphasizing that science is not just in laboratories, but all around us, especially in our kitchen.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The book encourages children to dive into the mysteries of science through fun and interactive experiments.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply their curiosity by exploring the world around them, asking questions, and conducting simple experiments at home or school.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: By engaging with the scientific method, children learn to analyze problems and think critically to find solutions.
Real-World Application: This skill helps in daily decision-making and in understanding cause-and-effect relationships in all areas of life.
Example Lesson: Collaboration
Explanation: Many experiments in the book require teamwork, teaching children the importance of working together to achieve a common goal.
Real-World Application: This lesson is applicable in group projects at school, sports teams, and family activities, emphasizing the value of cooperation and shared success.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Science experiments do not always work as expected. The book teaches resilience through repeated trials and adjustments.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be persistent in their efforts, whether it be in solving a difficult homework problem or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: The experiments make use of everyday materials, promoting recycling and creative reuse, which fosters environmental consciousness.
Real-World Application: Children can practice sustainability by reusing materials creatively in projects and being mindful of reducing waste in their daily routines.