Books with author Leslie Johnstone

How do machines work? Kids will have a blast constructing a mini-seesaw to illustrate the way a lever operates or creating their very own pulley from an empty spool, string, ribbon, pails, pennies, a broom, and two chairs. They’ll find out why they can’t put in a screw using only their fingers and examine the different parts of compound machines. In another experiment, a child’s bicycle becomes a laboratory for understanding whether wheels have to be smooth to run. A good time will be had by all.

Want a winning science fair project that isn't a lot of work? Here are actual projects to use (with adaptations for different grade levels). Experiment and see whether family members have fingerprint characteristics in common, what the effects of calcium on bone strength are, how light affects leaves, and much more. Here are the few other choices that could earn you a blue ribbon!* Scents of Smell: Some aromas say they'll put you in a certain mood. But, do they? * The Yolks on You!: Demonstrate the power of osmosis--using the humble egg.* The Iceman Cometh: You've skated on icy ponds--but why can't you ever skate on the ocean? Find out how salt lowers the freezing temperature.You'll get help in finding an idea, for organizing and displaying the work, and in figuring out just what judges are looking for; plus checklists and suggestions for doing research, all of which will speed you on your way!

How in the world do you classify the more than one million species in the animal kingdom? This fact-packed book divides animals into the major phyla, including chordates, arthropods, and mollusks; the major classes, such as fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, and insects; and by critical features, such as cell structure and the need to feed. Fascinating case histories examine the discovery of new mammal species, the need to conserve endangered species, and using natural predators to control populations and preserve species and their environments. Special sections also highlight the relationships of animals with plants (food chains), bacteria (diseases), and Archaea (non-bacterial microorganisms found in the intestines of some animals).

"The clean and colorful format, cleverly boxed lists of supplies, and cartoon characters will encourage youngsters to try these activities on their own."--School Library JournalScience basics start right at home for children with this fun introduction to the kitchen laboratory. There, simple and safe activities will reveal the excitement of science in an enjoyable, unintimidating atmosphere. And bright drawings and photos add to the kid appeal. What children learn as they cook up some cool experiments will set the stage for science success all through school. All it takes are some common materials, such as applesauce, coffee filters, coarse pepper, and a candy or two. Colorful "cabbage soup" teaches them about chemical reactions, and they'll also learn by watching balloons inflate themselves with the help of a little yeast, making eggs "burp," and more. There are even activities to do in restaurants while waiting for the meal.

Kids will swing, run, and jump for joy when smart science combines with super sports. These absorbing activities use both body and mind and make learning science thoroughly entertaining. As children uncover the principles that underlie everything from baseball, basketball, and biking to skiing, surfing, and swimming, they'll begin to understand how the stars perform their famous moves and why some people do better than others at certain sports. And imagine what fun youngsters will have as they kick around a beach ball to see what it takes for a soccer player to shoot straight or as they sing "Happy Birthday" while doing sit-ups to find out why athletes let out those rude-sounding grunts and groans as they play.

How do machines work? Kids will have a blast constructing a mini-seesaw to illustrate the way a lever operates or creating their very own pulley from an empty spool, string, ribbon, pails, pennies, a broom, and two chairs. They’ll find out why they can’t put in a screw using only their fingers and examine the different parts of compound machines. In another experiment, a child’s bicycle becomes a laboratory for understanding whether wheels have to be smooth to run. A good time will be had by all.

E ach and every experiment in Silly Science is guaranteed to make you giggle, and teach you about science at the same time. What could be sillier than making spaghetti dance, performing magic tricks with a diaper, or building a maze for a potato? Believe it or not, you need real science to do goofy stuff like this, but you don't need fancy equipment. Every one of the 28 projects in this book can be completed with materials you find around the house. The simple, clear instructions and illustrations help you get each experiment right the first time you try it.

nter the high-tech world of infrared technology as you learn the basics of electronics with this book and kit. Connect a resistor and a capacitor to a circuit board. Learn about electromagnets, motors, switches, and gears. Build a unit that allows you to switch your lights on and off with an infrared light beam! The 32-page book is filled with information about electronics, infrared technology, remote-controlled robots, and more!

Everyday Science is fun, easy, and useful! Each and every experiment in Everyday Science is guaranteed to make you think about the way things work. At the same time, you will learn how to make stuff you can use every day. Want a telephone in your room? You'll enjoy making one for yourself, using one of the projects in this book. Or maybe you'd like to take pictures with a camera you've made from an oatmeal box or make a hand-warmer in a plastic sandwich bag. Every one of the 25 projects in this book can be completed with materials you find around the house. The simple, clear instructions and illustrations help you get each experiment right the first time you try it.

Using simple tools of the science trade included in this kit, ordinary ingredients from your kitchen cabinets combine to yield extraordinary results! These are not Grandma's recipes—from glow-in-the-dark slime to Quick Change Paper, young scientists will never have so much fun with a beaker and test tubes. Easily assembled components empower kids to mix up 15 secret formulas. Read all about it! Authors Shar Levine and Leslie Johnstone know young scientists need to experiment! They have created 15 recipes to introduce kids to basic (and safe) chemistry, fun intact. Easy to follow instructions and sound information ensure success.