Print Resources: Alphabetically

This is a collection of Print Resources about water. Separate collections of Electronic Resources and National Academies Press e-Books are also available.

Most titles below are outstanding and recommended by the National Science Teachers Association that fit this year’s theme for Chemists Celebrate Earth Day. Descriptions are based on reviews from the NSTA or publishers web site.

Key: E = Elementary (K–5), I = Intermediate (6–8), HS = High School (9–12), C = College, G = General Public

ANGEL FALLS: A SOUTH AMERICAN JOURNEY. Tanis Jordan. Illustrated by Martin Jordan. Kingfisher, 1995. 36pp. ISBN 1-85697-541-X. (I)
Brilliant text and stunning oil paintings capture the beauty of the Venezuelan Highlands with its immense grasslands, dense jungles, towering mountains, and the grandeur of Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in the world. Readers encounter native species either living in harmony or struggling to survive. Glossary. Pronunciation keys within the text.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 1996
BATHTUB SCIENCE. Shar Levine and Leslie Johnstone. NY: Sterling, 2001. 80 pp. ISBN 0-8069-7185-1. (E, I)
Bathtub Science offers children, parents, and teachers a compendium of science experiments relating to water. This collection of investigations of the concepts of fluids, density, and buoyancy will encourage independent exploration for elementary and middle school students. The authors have made the topics of water clocks, pressure, surface tension, and absorption so interesting that readers are likely to stay in their baths doing science until they wrinkle up! There are illustrations on every page. A glossary, table of contents, and index are included. All materials needed (usually items readily available in the home) are listed. Each experiment has an intriguing or eye-catching introduction, step-by-step procedures, and clear explanations of the scientific basis or background for the reader’s observations. Fun facts are interspersed throughout the book.
Source: NSTA Recommends
BENEATH BLUE WATERS: MEETINGS WITH REMARKABLE DEEP-SEA CREATURES. Deborah Kovacs and Kate Madin. Illustrated with photographs by Larry Madin and various sources. Viking, 1996. 64pp. ISBN 0-670-85653-. (I)
The vast expanse of ocean that is miles down from sunlight and warmth remains a virtually untouched natural region. Diving teams and professional photographers bring the world under the deep blue to life for curious young minds. Go “beneath blue waters” and discover the variety and beauty of life that dwells therein. Glossary. Epilogue.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 1997
THE BIG RIVERS: THE MISSOURI, THE MISSISSIPPI, AND THE OHIO. Bruce Hiscock. Illustrated by the author. Atheneum, 1997. 32pp. ISBN 0-689-80871-2. (E, I)
This book describes how the Missouri, Mississippi, and Ohio Rivers produced the Midwest floods of 1993. Watercolor illustrations set the mood for the simple text in picture book format. This is an excellent book on weather phenomena for young children.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 1998
THE BIRD IN THE WATERFALL: A NATURAL HISTORY OF OCEANS, RIVERS, AND LAKES. Gerry Dennis. New York: HarperCollins, 1996. ISBN 0060170948. (G)
Source: Athena
BUOYANCY. John Farndon. Tarrytown, NY: Benchmark Books, 2003. ISBN 761414673. (E, I)
Presents information on floating and sinking in liquids or air, providing instructions for relevant scientific experiments.
Source: Athena
BUTTERNUT HOLLOW POND. Brian J. Heinz. Illustrated by Bob Marstall. Millbrook Press, 2000. 32pp. ISBN 0-7613-0268-9. (I)
The reader explores the interdependence of organisms in a pond with particular emphasis on food webs. Excitement reigns as an animal quickly changes its role from hunter to hunted. Through text and watercolor illustrations, the reader develops an appreciation of ecology and the environment.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 2001
CARING FOR OUR WATER. Carol Greene. Hillside, NJ: Enslow Publ., 1991. ISBN 089490356x. (E)
Simple text and illustrations describe different ecological problems relating to water, and suggest ways to preserve this resource.
Source: WorldCat
THE CHEMISTRY OF WATER. Susan E. Kegley and Joy Andrews. Sausalito, CA: University Science Books, 1998. 167 pp. ISBN: 093570244X. (HS, C)
This introductory laboratory manual will help students design a sampling plan, understand the instrumental and analytical techniques used for the assessment of water quality, learn how to interpret data and use statistical analyses, and apply scientific reasoning to an environmental problem. Ideal for use in the laboratory portion of an introductory environmental chemistry or general chemistry course, the manual provides substantial background information about water chemistry and gives the instructor a choice of procedures for each analysis, from instrument-intensive techniques to those requiring nothing more than a buret and a few chemicals. A detailed Instructors’ Manual is also available.
Source: University Science Books
CHEMISTRY: RIVERS CURRICULUM GUIDE. Dr. Virginia Bryan, Allen Burbank, and Dr. Jack Ballinger. While Plains, NY: Dale Seymour Publications, 1997. 238 pp. ISBN 0-201-49367-5. (I, HS)
This book brings the methods and techniques from the popular national program to the classroom. It provides an environmental context for student research in physical science and chemistry. Using the same techniques that field scientists employ, students learn to analyze the quality of local water supplies and interpret the data they collect. The book is divided into 10 lessons (with both teacher and student materials) and six appendices. The first lesson outlines laboratory procedures, data analysis, and safety. Each subsequent lesson introduces a new water quality test: pH, temperature and flow rate, turbidity, total solids, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, phosphates, nitrates, and fecal coliform. Measurements of all of these parameters are combined into a water quality index measure. Kits are available to provide most of the materials necessary for these tests. This is one book in a high-quality series of six produced by Rivers Curriculum Project of Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. They are excellent for enriching high school physical science programs, and can be used successfully with middle school students with appropriate modifications.
Source: NSTA Recommends
CONSERVE WATER: EDUCATORS’ GUIDE. Bozeman, MT: International Water Education for Teachers, 2000. 307 pp. ISBN 1-888631-04-X. (I, HS)
This is a resource book of case studies and full-length activities that have been field-tested. Activities are innovative, interactive, and fun; they are also practical and easy to use in any classroom. Some of the activities go beyond the scope of the classroom and outline ways students can interact with the local community and government. More than just another activity book, Conserve Water exposes students to critical issues related to water conservation. The thought-provoking activities require higher-level thinking skills: gathering, organizing, analyzing, interpreting, applying, and evaluating information. Illustrations are clear, and curriculum connections are carefully outlined. There is a sidebar for each activity that highlights subject areas, grade level, preparation and activity times, and any special skills or vocabulary that may be needed. A summary paragraph at the beginning of every activity gives the teacher an overview of the lesson, and objectives, materials, and background are laid out in a practical format. Student pages are reproducible.
Source: NSTA Recommends
CRAWDAD CREEK. Scott Russell Sanders. Illustrated by Robert Hynes. National Geographic, 1999. 32pp. ISBN 0-7922-7097-5. (E, I)
Exquisitely detailed paintings capture the beauty of the wild, natural world waiting to be discovered. The book encourages readers to go outside; find moving water; and open their eyes, ears, and hearts to the wilderness everywhere. A great book to encourage young readers to observe all the details of the world around them.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 2000
DIVE! MY ADVENTURES IN THE DEEP FRONTIER. Sylvia A. Earle. Illustrated with photographs by Wolcott Henry. National Geographic, 1999. 64pp. ISBN 0-7922-7144-0. (I)
In a fascinating, beautifully illustrated book, this world-renowned underwater explorer and researcher plunges the young reader into a luminous underwater world. The reader will “walk the seafloor” to learn about the wonders of the deep and the technology needed to explore it. With outstanding photographs and lively illustrated text, readers will discover how incredible our ocean world is and how to explore and protect it. Time Line of Ocean Exploration, Glossary, Resources, Index.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 2000
DO FISH DRINK? : FIRST QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT WATER. Alexandria, VA: Time-Life for Children, 1993. ISBN 783508506. (E)
Discusses, in question and answer format, the sources, cycle, and uses of water, why oceans are salty, and other related topics. Includes simple experiments.
Source: WorldCat
DO FISH DRINK WATER? : PUZZLING AND IMPROBABLE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS. Bill McLain. New York: Morrow, 1999. ISBN 688165125. (G)
Source: WorldCat
DRIP! DROP! HOW WATER GETS TO YOUR TAP. Barvara Seuling. New York: Holiday House, 2000. ISBN 823144590. (E, I)
Jo Jo and her zany dog willy explain the water cycle and introduce experiments about water filtration, evaporation and condensation.
Source: Athena
A DROP AROUND THE WORLD. B. S. McKinney. Nevada City, CA: Dawn Publications, 1998. ISBN 188322072. (E)
Presents the water cycle through the journey of a raindrop around the world, in sky, on land, underground, and in the sea, in its liquid, solid, and vapor forms, as it supports life everywhere.
Source: WorldCat
THE DROP IN MY DRINK: THE STORY OF WATER ON OUR PLANET. Meredith Hooper. Illustrated by Chris Coady. NY: Viking, 1998. 32pp. ISBN 0-670-87618-6. (I)
Here is the amazing and ever-changing story of water-where it comes from, how it behaves, why it matters-and the crucial role it has played throughout life on Earth. The eye-catching illustrations are realistic and thought-provoking.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children in 1999
A DROP OF WATER: A BOOK OF SCIENCE AND WONDER. Walter Wick. Illustrated with photographs by the author. NY: Scholastic, 1997. 40pp. ISBN 0-590-22197-3. (I)
Easy-to-read text and exquisite photographs explain the concepts of evaporation, condensation, capillary attraction, and surface tension. The camera halts and magnifies the action so all states of water can be observed. A collection of simple, exceptional experiments offers ways to further investigate the principles of water transformation.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12 for 1998
EARTH DAY: KEEPING OUR PLANET CLEAN. Elaine Landau. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow, 2002. 48 pp. ISBN 0-7660-1778-8. (E)
With celebrations of Earth Day marking each April, teachers are always looking for innovative ideas to for educating students. This book is an excellent resource for environmental awareness. It teaches young children the importance of keeping our planet a clean, safe place to live. It is filled with background information about pollution and taking care of the Earth. It gives the history of the first Earth Day and how it has changed through the years. Tips are also provided for recycling projects and school-wide activities that young people will enjoy. This book includes glossary of environmental terms, other suggested reading, and Internet addresses for additional activities.
Source: NSTA Recommends
EARTH: THE DEFINITIVE VISUAL GUIDE TO OUR PLANET. James F. Luhr. NY: Dorling Kindersley, 2003. 520 pp. ISBN 0789496437. (HS, C)
From minerals and rocks to forests and biomes to cultural interactions, this weighty resource contains a wealth of information that includes fundamental facts and integrated theories. The coverage is global in scope, and the book takes readers to locations around the world that illustrate facts and principles. Each major section is subdivided into smaller sections that include historical and cultural perspectives. The book is formatted in a modern style that will appeal to the hypertext generation. Each page is packed with “text-bites” of information and punctuated with longer segments that elaborate on major themes and concepts. Remarkable illustrations of isolated and rare phenomena are linked together in an appealing and elaborate way. Techniques that scientists use to gather data are often discussed, so students can go beyond “who” and “what” to understand “how.” Especially worthwhile are the cultural links that provide a fascinating human perspective on the process of science.
Source: NSTA Recommends
EVERY DROP FOR SALE: OUT DESPERATE BATTLE OVER WATER IN A WORLD ABOUT TO RUN OUT. Jeffrey Rothfeder. New York: Jeremy P. Tarcher/Putnam, 2001. ISBN 1585421146. (I, HS, C, G)
Source: WorldCat
EXPERIMENTS IN SCIENCE: WHAT IS IT MADE OF? David Glover. NY: Dorling Kindersley, 2001. 125 pp. ISBN 0-7894-7850-1. (E, I)
This book is a scientifically accurate, hands-on activity book. It offers simple activities that can be completed in reasonable amounts of time and with materials that are readily available either at home or at your closest hardware store. Vibrant photographs illustrate topics such as: “Testing Materials,” “Using Materials,” “Changing Materials,” and “Wonderful Water.” In the lesson, “Float or Sink?”, children are asked to observe how different items such as clay, a metal spoon, and a pebble react with water. Do they float or sink? Why? They are asked to examine each item and to carefully place them in the water to see what happens. The glossary goes beyond definitions to provide examples and explanations.
Source: NSTA Recommends
FIELD MANUAL FOR WATER QUALITY MONITORING: AN ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR SCHOOLS (12TH EDITION). Mark K, Mitchell and William B. Stapp. Dubuque, IA: Kendall/Hunt Publishing, 2000. 272 pp. ISBN 0-7872-6801-1. (I, HS)
This book is considered to be THE reference for those working with community water monitoring projects. Nine chapters and an excellent appendix of data sheets and drawings help teachers build the equipment and expertise needed to start a water-monitoring program. The first chapters deal with watersheds, sampling and safety. The book begins with specific, clear directions for nine water quality tests. The directions are suitable for senior high school students to follow independently, or middle school students to follow with adult help. Originally developed as a classroom supplement, the activities and techniques included here are the result of many hours of fieldwork. These procedures have been tested in many parts of the world, and they work. This field manual has been adopted by the Global Rivers Environmental Education Network for those doing water quality projects around the world. By establishing this book as the primary reference, GREEN allows groups to collect data using the same set of techniques that are accessible to average students and citizens. There has been much discussion recently concerning the value, even validity, of citizen- collected monitoring data. Although citizen data may not always have the same weight in a court of law as that collected by scientists, it does serve as an important source for establishing trends (improvements and declines) in water quality. Helping establish a sense of connection between a community and its bodies of water is a very important step in creating ownership of the resource, the problems, and the solutions.
Source: NSTA Recommends
FLUSH!: TREATING WASTEWATER. Karen Mueller Coombs, Illustrated with photographs by Jerry Boucher. Minneapolis, MN: Carolrhoda Books, 1995. 56pp. ISBN 0-87614-879-8. (E)
Ever wonder what happens to water you flush down the toilet? A step-by-step trip through the process of cleaning wastewater gives a behind-the-scenes look using excellent, full-color photographs. A unique book concerning our most valuable natural resource — water. Glossary. Index.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 1996
FOLLOW THE WATER FROM BROOK TO OCEAN. Arthur Doros. New York: HarperCollins, 1991. ISBN 0060215984. (E, I)
Explains how water flows from brooks, to streams, to rivers, over waterfalls, through canyons and dams, to eventually reach the ocean.
Source: WorldCat
THE GREENPEACE BOOK OF WATER. Klaus Lanz. New York: Sterling, 1995. ISBN 0806942126. (G)
Source: Athena
HANDS-ON SCIENCE SERIES: WATER. Martin Allen, Ph.D. Portland, ME: J. Weston Walch, 1998. 92 pp. ISBN 0-8251-3758-6. (I, HS)
Water is one of eight volumes of Hands-On Science from J. Weston Walch designed to enrich traditional text-based curricula. Each volume follows a similar format, a carefully structured set of 16 to 20 activities requiring one or two class periods. Certain activities are designed for out-of-class involvement; others are intended for in-class participation or team projects. The strength of these low-cost editions is the teacher-friendly format; tips “before you begin,” objectives, the National Science Education Standards, materials, adaptations for both high and low achievers. The reproducible student pages are equally rich, with procedure diagrams, questions, links, and follow-up activities to extend and clarify learning. Although many of the activities in these volumes can be found in various other sources, busy teachers — especially those with limited experience — will find the selection included in these volumes effective and helpful.
Source: NSTA Recommends
THE HIDDEN LIFE OF THE POND. D.M. Schwartz. New York: Crown Publ., 1988. ISBN 517570602. (E)
Photographs and text indroduce the animals, insects, and plants in a pond.
Source: WorldCat
THE HOLY ORDER OF WATER: HEALING THE Earth’s WATERS AND OURSELVES. W.E. Marks. Great Barrington, MA: Bell Pond Books, 2001. ISBN 088010483x. (G)
Source: Athena
I AM WATER. Jean Marzollo. New York: Scholastic, 1996. ISBN 0590265873. (E)
Source: Athena
I GET WET. Vicki Cobb. New York: HarperCollins, 2002. ISBN 688178383. (E)
Renowned science author Vicki Cobb has concocted just the right formula for making scientific principles easy for even the youngest kids to understand.
Source: Athena
INSIDE RAIN: WORKING WITH PRECIPITATION CHEMISTRY DATA. Jay Barracato. Arlington, VA: NSTA Press, 2000. ISBN 0-87355-482-6. (HS)
Inside Rain: Working With Precipitation Chemistry Data is a set of resources that includes the Database Basics manual and Inside Rain activities. Information from The National Atmospheric Deposition Program guide makes this collection a valuable unit that will enable even statistics novices to learn good data analysis techniques and develop a foundation for the study of more complex work. The Database Basics manual includes three units: Creating Databases, Working With Data Sets, and Making Decisions Based on Data. The booklets from the National Atmospheric Deposition Program include weekly data from the National Trends Network (NTN), daily data from nine selected sites through the Atmospheric Integrated Research Monitoring Network (AIRMoN), and the Mercury Deposition Network (MDN). All data can be obtained through the Internet site at http://nadp.sws.uiuc.edu, and the booklet contains maps of concentrations and depositions for pH, sulfate, nitrate, ammonium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and chloride ions.
Each activity is complete with a student section, teacher section, materials and equipment lists, answers to all questions, and permissions to reproduce for classroom use and workshop instruction. This guide is excellent. It follows all the tenets of the STS (Science, Technology and Society) approach to teaching science, and teachers will find that the topics addressed find their way into all science disciplines. The explanations are clear, and the graphics are easy to download, read, and analyze. Questions that follow each activity involve higher level thinking skills, and each activity has several extensions listed in the teacher section. These extensions could provide an avenue for more advanced work or optional work for students who complete their work early. This excellent package is highly recommended as a source of activities for investigating rain in the lab, outdoors, and online.
Source: NSTA Recommends
IT COULD STILL BE WATER. Alan Fowler. Chicago: Childrens Press, 1992. ISBN 0516060031. (E)
A simple description of the uses, properties and forms of water.
Source: Athena
THE KINGFISHER YOUNG PEOPLE’S BOOK OF OCEANS. David Lambert. Illustrated with various photographs, drawings, maps, and diagrams. Kingfisher, 1997. 96pp. ISBN 0-7534-5098-4. (E, I)
Numerous engaging illustrations support the information-packed text of this book about oceans. Readers learn about the ocean from several angles as they are presented with information about the physical, biological, and environmental influences the oceans have on our planet. Includes a list of oceanographers. Glossary. Index.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 1998
LAKE AND POND. A.P. Sayre. New York: Twenty-First Century Books, 1996. ISBN 805040897. (E, I)
Discusses the lake and pond biomes and how each is affected by the environment and people.
Source: WorldCat
LAKES. Catherine Chambers. Crystal Lake, IL: Heinemann Library (Rigby), 2000. 32 pp. ISBN 1-57572-524-X. (E)
A volume in the Mapping Earthforms series, this book examines the geographic features that form our planet. Beginning with a general definition, it describes lake landscapes, organisms, the influence lakes have had on civilization, and the effect civilization has had on lakes. It mentions all types of lakes from the Caspian Sea to the Great Lakes. Children will be fascinated to read about the huge underground lake that lies beneath Australia. Many maps are included to further clarify the text, as are beautiful color photographs. The volume ends with a list of the ten largest lakes of the world and some interesting facts. This is a good general reference book and an excellent beginning point for research on lakes and the environmental impact they have on our world.
Source: NSTA Recommends
LIFE IN PONDS AND STREAMS. W.H. Amos. Wash. DC: National Geographic Society, 1981. ISBN 870444042. (E, I)
An introduction to the animals that live in ponds and streams, including beavers, frogs, ducks, crayfish, trout and insects.
Source: WorldCat
LIFE’S MATRIX: A BIOGRAPHY OF WATER. Philip Ball. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1999, 2001. 417 pp. ISBN: 0520230086. (HS, C, G)
Water is the fabric of snow, hail, vapor, and ice, and is the only substance to exist on earth in all three of its physical states: solid, liquid, and gas. Water is central to our planetary environment. But what exactly is it? Life’s Matrix tells of water’s origins, history, and fascinating pervasiveness: there are, for example, fourteen different forms of ice, and a provocative exploration of water on other planets highlights the possibilities of life beyond Earth. The book reveals the unexpected in the most ordinary places — a drop of dew, a frozen pond, a cup of coffee — and the familiar in unexpected settings: there is water on the sun and the moon, at the heart of molecular biology, at the core of the cell, and there may be enough of it beneath the surface of the Earth to refill the oceans thirty times over. The final chapter surveys the grim realities of our natural water resources, and shows how it will become a scarce commodity in the twenty-first century. Life’s Matrix offers a fresh exploration of one of the oldest substances known to man, and ensures that we will never think about this ubiquitous substance in the same way again.
Source: University of California Press
LIMNOECOLOGY: THE ECOLOGY OF LAKES AND STREAMS. W. Lampert. New York: Oxford Univ. Press, 1997. ISBN 195095928. (HS, C, G)
Source: WorldCat
MATERIALS, MATERIALS, MATERIALS: WATER. Chris Oxlade. Portsmouth, NH: Heinemann Educational Books, 2002. ISBN 1588105881. 32 pp. (E)
This book is appropriate for primary students studying water, weather, or pollution. Topics range from properties of water to clouds and rain to water power and pollution. Key words, such as transparent and dissolving, are in bold type and can be looked up in the glossary. A table of contents and an index give this book the same format as many higher level texts. Students may also find the “Fact File” and “Can You Believe It?” sections fun to read. High-quality photographs feature animals, children, and men and women from around the world. For those children whose interests are piqued by this topic, teachers or parents will also find a list of more books to read.
Source: NSTA Recommends
THE MATRIX OF LIFE: A VIEW OF NATURAL MOLECULES FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF ENVIRONMENTAL WATER. J.C. Collins. East Greenbush, NY: Molecular Presentations, 1991. ISBN 962971901. (I, HS, C, G)
Source: WorldCat
MY WORLD OF SCIENCE: WATER. Angela Royston. Crystal Lake, IL, Heinemann Library (Rigby), 2001. 32 pp. ISBN 1-58810-247-5. (E)
This book covers a great deal of content usually included in primary curricula: phases of water, the water cycle, and the dependence of all living things on water. It also includes practical observations, like the water content of fruits and vegetables, and applications, such as using water to clean or fight fires. The author explores phase changes and movement of water through gravity and negative air pressure (suction). Activities demonstrate some of the more difficult concepts; for example, children can measure a puddle over time to observe evaporation. Students can also try to push a balloon under water to show that water pushes back. These experiences will help students to understand some of the unique properties of water. This book is highly recommended for its child-friendly text and visual representations that are accurate and realistic.
Source: NSTA Recommends
OCEANS AND SEAS. Catherine Chambers. Chicago: Heinemann Library, 2000. 32 pp. ISBN 1-57572-526-6. (E)
Part of the Mapping Earthforms series, this book provides the reader with the definition and descriptions of the Earth’s major oceans and seas, how they are formed, and how they look below the surface. The authors emphasize the importance of seawater, its effects upon living organisms, and marine minerals that humans need and use in their daily lives. Pollution from chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and raw sewage is having a devastating effect on the oceans and seas. Suggested solutions are given, but the book stresses that the future of the world’s oceans and seas depend on people.
Source: NSTA Recommends
OUR WET WORLD. Sneed B. Collard, III. Illustrated by James M. Needham. Charlesbridge, 1998. 32pp. ISBN 0-88106-268-5. (I)
Readers will discover 13 different aquatic ecosystems as they read about the diversity of life found in the wet places of the Earth. Closeup illustrations provide details about the fascinating flora and fauna that inhabit the waterways and oceans of our planet. Glossary.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 1999
POND & RIVER. Steve Parker. New York: Knopt, 1988. ISBN 394896157. (E, I)
A photo essay about the range of plants and animals found in fresh water throughout the year, examining the living conditions and survival mechanisms of creatures dwelling at the edge of the water, on its surface, or under the mud.
Source: WorldCat
POND WATCHING WITH ANN MORGAN. Michael Elsohn Ross. Illustrated by Wendy Smith. Carolrhoda Books/Lerner, 2000. 48pp. ISBN 1-57505-385-3. (I)
Readers follow Ann Morgan as she uncovers the mysteries of newts, mayflies, and other water creatures. This work describes the life and work of Morgan, who studied, taught, and wrote about the animals of ponds and streams, and stressed the importance of an ecological approach to conservation. Important Dates, Glossary, Bibliography, Index.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 2001
RAIN. Kay Davies. Austin, TX: Raintree Steck-Vaughn, 1995. ISBN 817240438. (E)
Source: Athena
RAIN AND PEOPLE. Nikki Bundey. Minneapolis, MN: Lerner, 2000. 32pp. ISBN 1-57505-494-9. (E)
The focus of this book is on rain as a source of life, how humans harness and use water, and the effect rain can have on buildings and transportation. The photographs are one of the series’ most appealing features; this particular book includes beautiful photos of people all over the world in wet or rainy conditions. Scattered throughout the book are very simple experiments that a student could do independently. There are good diagrams, maps and charts, as well as an index and a glossary all designed to make learning about rain very easy.
Source: NSTA Recommends
RAIN AND THE EARTH. Nikki Bundey. Minneapolis, MN: Lerner, 2000. 32 pp. ISBN 1-57505-469-8. (E, I)
One of eight books in The Science of Weather, the focus of this book is on role that rain plays on the Earth, how the water cycle works, and the effects of water on all forms of life. The photographs are one of the series’ most appealing features; this particular book includes beautiful photos of people and animals all over the world in wet or rainy conditions. The accurate and thorough text covers cloud types, wetlands, and rainforests as well as the conditions caused by lack of rain. Scattered throughout the book are very simple experiments that a student could do independently. There are good diagrams, maps and charts, as well as an index and a glossary all designed to make learning about rain very easy. The consistent and accurate science content, coupled with a friendly format, make this a fine resource for the study of water and weather.
Source: NSTA Recommends
RAINDROPS. L. D. Brimner. New York: Childrens Press, 1999. ISBN 0516212036. (E)
Follows the water cycle, as a raindrop moves into a creek, into a stream, into a river, and to its end in a lazy ocean.
Source: WorldCat
RIVER OF LIFE. Debbie S. Miller. Illustrated by Jon Van Zyle. Clarion Books, 2000. 32pp. ISBN 0-395-96790-2. (E)
Rich in word choice, this book develops strong images of the life cycle that unfolds along a river, as winter melts into spring and spring becomes the warm days of summer. Inviting illustrations help tell this story of a river ecosystem. Glossary.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 2001
A RIVER RAN WILD: AN ENVIRONMENTAL HISTORY. Lynne Cherry. San Diego: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1992. ISBN 152005420. (E, I)
An environmental history of the Nashua River, from its discovery by Indians through the polluting years of the Industrial Revolution to the ambitious clean-up that revitalized it.
Source: WorldCat
RIVERS. Catherine Chambers. Chicago: Heinemann Library, 2000. 32 pp. ISBN 1-57572-527-4. (E)
Part of the Mapping Earthforms series, this book examines the physical characteristics that shape our landscapes. It examines the world’s rivers, discusses how they were formed, what organisms live there, and how humans use them. Relationships between rain, mountains, rivers, and the sea are emphasized. Along the way, the reader is introduced to river plants and animals, flooding, and irrigation.
Source: NSTA Recommends
RIVERS: NATURE’S WONDROUS WATERWAYS. David L. Harrison. Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mills Press, 2002. 32 pp. ISBN 1563979683. (E)
From mountain streams to the sea, this book takes the reader on an exciting river journey. On the way, elementary students learn about food chains, the water cycle, erosion, rock weathering, and watersheds. The book also mentions pollution and what can be done to clean up the environment. The book does not describe all rivers; for example, its assertion that rivers begin in mountains would exclude the Mississippi. But the concepts provide a valuable link between science and geography. Reading level and concepts are well suited for third or fourth graders.
Source: NSTA Recommends
SALAMANDER RAIN: A LAKE & POND JOURNAL. Written and illustrated by Kristin Joy Pratt-Serafini. Dawn Publications, 2001. 32pp. ISBN 1-58469-017-8. (E)
Bold illustrations and journal notes, maps, clips from news articles, and fun tidbits provide a brilliant model for student journals. The story joyfully describes major seasonal changes that occur in a temperate pond community.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 2002
THE SCIENCE BOOK OF WATER. Neil Ardley. San Diego: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1991. ISBN 152005757. (E)
Simple experiments demonstrate the properties of water.
Source: Athena
SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS: SOLIDS, LIQUIDS, AND GASES. John Frandon. Tarrytown, NY: Benchmark Books, 2001. 32 pp. ISBN 0-7614-1338-3. (E, I)
Part of the Science Experiments series, this book combines accurate information with simple experiments. The author begins with a clear definition of matter. Sections that follow delve more deeply into the liquid, solid, gas, and plasma states of matter. Information is also included about crystals, mixtures, and solutions. The photos are sure to capture the reader’s eye, and all of the experiments are written in kid-friendly terms.
Source: NSTA Recommends
SCIENCE MAGIC IN THE BATHROOM. Richard Robinson. NY: Simon And Schuster, 2001. 96 pp. ISBN 0-689-84333-1. (E, I)
This book is organized into eight areas: Weird Water, Dishing the Dirt, Grease, Coming Clean, Light Delight, Air We Go!, Hot and Cold, and Sounds Interesting. The common theme among these topics is that each can be performed in any bathroom. Steps to perform each act are provided in an easy-to-understand format, complete with illustrations. Troubleshooting tips are offered in case the trick does not work with alerts about possible complications. But the beauty of this little book is that the author does not allow the child to maintain the impression that these are tricks. Each “magic trick” is followed by a highly detailed, accurate, yet very kid-friendly explanation of the elements of science that made that particular experiment seem so magical.
Source: NSTA Recommends
SCIENCE WITH WATER. Helen Edom. London: Usborne, 1990. ISBN 088110485x. (E, I)
Source: Athena
SQUISHY, MISTY, DAMP & MUDDY: THE IN-BETWEEN WORLD OF WETLANDS. Molly Cone. Illustrated with various photographs. Sierra Club, 1996. 32pp. ISBN 0-87156-480-7. (E, I)
Stunning, well-placed photographs pull the reader into this book. The story here is diversity — of wetlands and the abundant life they support. It also speaks of their precarious future and the importance of preservation. Cone’s richly innovative text is enhanced by touches of alliteration and an almost poetic cadence.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 1997
STREAM ECOLOGY: STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF RUNNING WATERS. J.D. Allan. New York: Chapman & Hall, 1995. ISBN 412294303. (I, HS, C, G)
Source: WorldCat
TOXIC LEAK! AN EVENT-BASED SCIENCE MODULE STUDENT EDITION. Russell G. Wright. 49 pp. Dale Seymour Pub., While Plains, NY, 1996. ISBN 0-201-49433-7. (I, HS)
What is our most priceless resource? Water. Where do you get your water, and could it be contaminated? With students playing the roles of concerned citizens in a small community where leaking gasoline storage tanks have contaminated the groundwater, Toxic Leak! An Event Based Science Module is exciting from start to finish. The module emphasizes cooperative learning, teamwork, independent research, hands-on investigations, and explorations of authentic tasks. Written and field-tested by teachers, the module is extremely well written and organized. Students will readily get involved in the activities without realizing they are practicing science and developing problem solving skills. This excellent module is geared for middle school but could easily be adapted for high school students.
Source: NSTA Recommends
TOXIC LEAK! AN EVENT-BASED SCIENCE MODULE TEACHER’S GUIDE. Russell G. Wright. Addison-Wesley Pub. Co., New York, NY, 1996. ISBN 0-201-49436-1. (I, HS)
See description in student edition.
Source: NSTA Recommends
WACKY FUN WITH SCIENCE: 69 PROJECTS YOU CAN FLOAT, SINK, SQUIRT, AND SAIL. Ed Sobey. NY: Mcgraw-Hill, 2000. 88 pp. ISBN 0-07-134809-3. (I)
This book is a great primer on the chemistry and physics of water for middle grade students. Beginning with the explanations of the properties of water, the authors answer typical questions like “Why don’t submarines have windows?” with accuracy and humor. Demonstrations and experiments include helpful black-and-white line drawings, and many of the experiments can be used in science fair activities. The book includes helpful tips for planning a science fair project and all necessary safety precautions.
Source: NSTA Recommends
WATER. L.B. Leopold. New York: Time, Inc., 1966. OCLC 712049. (G)
Source: WorldCat
WATER. Christopher McHugh. New York: Thomson Learning, 1993. ISBN 156847024x. (E, I)
A brief examination of the ways artists from all over the world have portrayed water in their art.
Source: Athena
WATER. Wendy Richardson. Chicago: Childrens Press, 1994, 1989. ISBN 0516092863. (E, I)
Presents paintings, woodcuts, and a tapestry by notable artists expressing ideas about water in its various forms.
Source: Athena
WATER. Kim Taylor. New York: Wiley, 1992. ISBN 471571946. (E, I)
Source: Athena
WATER. Brenda Walpole. Ada, OK: Garrett Educational Corp., 1990. ISBN 944483720. (E, I)
Explains the many uses of water and how clean water gets to the household tap. Includes instructions for a variety of simple experiments.
Source: Athena
WATER ALL AROUND. Catherine Nichols. New York: Benchmark Books, 2002. ISBN 0761412565. (E)
Source: Athena
WATER DANCE. Written and illustrated by Thomas Locker. Harcourt Brace, 1997. 32pp. ISBN 0-15-201284-2. (E)
This inspiring book about water involves readers in a question-and-answer format. Vivid oil paintings portray the natural movement of water and will enhance observational skills. Fascinating scientific facts about water follow the poetic text.
Source: NSTA Outstanding Books 1998
WATER, THE DROP OF LIFE. Peter Swanson. Minnetonka, MN: NorthWord Press, 2001. ISBN 1559717823. (G)
Companion to the public television series.
Source: WorldCat
WATER THE ELEMENTS. Ken Robbins. New York: Holt, 1994. ISBN 805022570. (E, I)
Source: Athena
WATER: THE FATE OF OUR MOST PRECIOUS RESOURCE. Marq De Villiers. Toronto: M&S, 2003. ISBN 771026412. (I, HS, C, G)
Source: WorldCat
WATER & FLOATING. David Evans. New York: Dorling Kindersley, 1993. ISBN 1564582086. (E)
Uses simple observations and experiments to explore the properties of water.
Source: WorldCat
WATER AND FLOATING. Alan Ward. New York: F. Watts, 1992. ISBN 0531142302. (E)
Uses simple experiments and activities to demonstrate the properties of water and such principles as floating.
Source: Athena
WATER: FOR HEALTH, FOR HEALING, FOR LIFE: YOU’RE NOT SICK. F. Batmanghelidj. New York: Warner Books, 2003. ISBN 446690740. (G)
Source: Athena
WATER MATTERS: VOL. 1 — WETLANDS, WATER USE & WASTEWATER TREATMENT. 32 pp. NSTA Press, Arlington, VA, 1994. ISBN 0-87355-127-3. (E, I, HS)
A three volume series of three teachers guides released by U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Educational Initiative and NSTA. It is designed to help teachers investigate the integral role that water plays in our lives with students Grades 3-8. The introduction lists goals and how to use the materials. Teachers are provided a clearly written background section on the major concepts. Next, the guide includes a variety of activities, from analyzing and interpreting data to making models that demonstrate the basic wastewater treatment methods. Be prepared for lots of relevant math and graphing! The activities are easy to replicate and do not require costly equipment. Each activity correlates with one of three information-filled posters, which are included. The last part of the guide contains ideas for more research and a list of resources.
Source: NSTA Recommends
WATER MATTERS: VOL. 2 — NAVIGATION, GROUNDWATER & WATER QUALITY. 32 pp. NSTA Press, Arlington, VA, 1997. ISBN 0-87355-127-3. (E, I, HS)
See description in Vol. 1 of series.
Source: NSTA Recommends
WATER MATTERS: VOL. 3 — OCEANS, WATERSHEDS, & HAZARDOUS WASTE. 32 pp. NSTA Press, Arlington, VA, 1999. ISBN 0-87355-175-3. (E, I, HS)
See description in Vol. 1 of series.
Source: NSTA Recommends
WATER: OPPOSING VIEWPOINTS. Carol Wekesser. San Diego: Greenhaven Press, 1994. ISBN 1565101638. (G)
Source: Athena
WATER & OTHER LIQUIDS. R. C. Mebane. New York: Twenty-first Century Books, 1995. ISBN 0805058404. (E, I)
Learn about the properties of water and other liquids through 16 experiments that make use of common household items.
Source: Athena
WATER: OUR PRECIOUS RESOURCE. R. A. Gallant. New York: Benchmark Books, 2003. OCLC 47797864. (E, I)
An in-depth look at Earth’s waters and mankind’s uses of water throughout history which includes ideas about planning better use of this critical resource in the future.
Source: WorldCat
WATER SCIENCE TRICKS WITH PROFESSOR SOLOMON SNICKERDOODLE. Peter Murray. St. Paul, MN: Child’s World, 1998. ISBN 1567660819. (E, I)
Professor Snickerdoodle explains how to perform various experiments and tricks with water, including making a clay bowl float and using a drop of water as a magnifying glass.
Source: WorldCat
WATER SCIENCE, WATER FUN: GREAT THINGS TO DO WITH H2O. Noel Fiarotta. New York: Sterling Pub., 1996. ISBN 806942487. (E, I)
Presents basic facts about water and includes simple experiments to illustrate such aspects as surface tension, dispersion, saturation, and buoyancy.
Source: Athena
WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE. Eloise Greenfield. New York: HarperFestival, 1999. ISBN 0694012475. (E)
An exploration of water for young readers who are fascinated by fountains, puddles, faucets, and other wet things.
Source: Athena
WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE. M.J. Rauzon. San Francisco: Sierra Club Books for Children, 1994. ISBN 871563835. (E, I)
Describes the many forms water takes, how it has shaped the Earth, and its importance to life.
Source: WorldCat, Athena
THE WATER’S JOURNEY. Eleonore Schmid. New York: North-South Books, 1990, c1989. ISBN 1558580131. (E, I)
Explains the water cycle from precipitation through a stream into a river, a like, and on to the ocean and back into the atmosphere by evaporation to repeat the cycle.
Source: Athena
WATERSHEDS: A PRACTICAL HANDBOOK FOR HEALTHY WATER. Clive Dobson and Gregor Gilpin Beck. 152 pp. Firefly Books Inc., Toronto, Ontario, BC, 1999. ISBN 1-55209-330-1. (HS)
This book is an enticing survey of the essential elements of water ecology. From the elementary concept of a watershed to more intricate biological aspects of wetland ecosystems and their impact upon the environment, this book delivers the most up-to-date scientific information in a simplified format and writing style. The author is a research biologist and a college teacher of courses in water pollution and ecology. Clive Dobson’s more than 100 beautifully crafted color illustrations augment the text and make reading the book easy, informative, and enjoyable. Beck and Dobson take the reader on an intellectual and sensory trip that visits the following topics: bioregions and aquatic habitats, water and nutrient cycles, water and air pollution, invasions of exotic species, habitat loss, and ecological restoration. In a special section called How Can I Help? readers find pragmatic and meaningful applications, such as reducing water and air pollution, preserving native forests, and helping restore the health of rivers and streams, that can make a difference in the health of watersheds.
Source: NSTA Recommends
WHERE DO PUDDLES GO?. Fay Robinson. Chicago: Childrens Press, 1995. ISBN 0516060368. (E)
Source: Athena
WOW! THE WONDERS OF WETLANDS. Alan S. Kesselheim, Britt Eckhardt Slattery, Susan H. Higgins, Mark R. Schilling. St. Michaels, MD: Environmental Concern, 1995. 330 pp. ISBN 1-888631-00-7. (E, I, HS)
This book is an exciting and complete educational resource book of background material for teachers who are preparing wetland study units. It features discussions of the physical science, chemistry, and biology of wetlands as well as their socioeconomic benefits. Other chapters address the topics of management and action for wetlands. This book focuses on easy-to-follow, hands-on/minds-on activities that encourage students to use higher-order thinking skills as they collect data and make conclusions. The activities also develop students’ beliefs about the nature of science and teach the importance of science literacy and good citizenship through community involvement.
Source: NSTA Recommends

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