Biodiversity:Explore the Diversity of Life on Earth with Science Activities for Kids by Laura Perdew with
illustrations by Tom Casteel offers an overview of life from the first
single-cell organisms through the varied lifeforms that exist today. The text,
which is designed for readers in grades four to six, is thoughtfully divided
into six chapters that systematically develop each concept.
The book opens with a double-page
geologic time scale and a vocabulary list which is followed by an introduction,
What Is Biodiversity?, that discusses the basic concepts of ecosystems such as
kelp forests. The biodiversity and
interconnection of ecosystems is explored through an up-close examination of a
tree both as a specific organism, but also as a diverse ecosystem of birds,
animals, insects, fungus and an assortment of microorganisms.
Chapter One, A
Short History of Life On Earth, references the geological time table to answer
the question, “How has life on earth become so diverse?” The Paleozoic Era saw
the rise of early organism like Trilobites and primitive fish. Land plants
developed into forests, and environments provided ecosystems for primitive
amphibians and reptiles. The Mesozoic Era is known for dinosaurs, the first
flowering plants, and the appearance of mammals. The Cenozoic Era is marked by
the presence of primates, the diversification of birds, and familiar mammals
such as mammoths and saber-toothed cats.
Chapter Two, Biodiversity
Everywhere, examines the ways in which environmental factors such as
temperature, precipitation, and geography determine the distribution of species
on land and in water. Why do rainforests, which occupy less than two percent of
the earth’s surface, account for fifty percent of earth’s biodiversity? Endemic
species, like the Texas blind salamander, are so perfectly adapted to their
environment that they don’t exist outside of their specific location.
Extremophiles occupy niches from 660° F deep sea hydrothermal vents to the
frigid waters beneath two miles of polar ice.
Chapter Three, Why
Biodiversity Matters, discusses ways in which ecosystem stability is protected
by biodiversity. Pollination, decomposition, and food webs are essential to the
health of the planet and dependent on the variety of plants and animals that
occupy earth’s many environments.
Chapter Four,
Biodiversity And Humans, builds on the previous chapters by demonstrating the
many ways in which humans are dependent on and benefit from earth’s
biodiversity. The security of our food supply is supported by bees and other
pollinators, as well as the many organisms that create healthy soil. Half of
our modern medicines are derived from nature’s plants, animals, fungi and
bacteria. Recreational opportunities rely on healthy natural environments.
Chapter Five,
Threats To Biodiversity, focuses on the ways in which the presence of seven
billion humans on earth impact the health of our planet. Climate change, ocean
acidification, pollution, habitat loss, poaching, and invasive species pose
unique challenges. Pesticides have been found in honey. Every year 9 million
tons of plastic go into the ocean.
Chapter Six,
Protecting Biodiversity, considers the question “What can we do to protect
biodiversity on Earth?” Protection can take many forms, both large and small:
conservation, innovation, and implementing laws, treaties, and policies to safe
guard the health of our home on the small blue planet called Earth.
Vocabulary is highlighted in Words To Know sidebars. Related
STEM projects are listed to check knowledge and offer hands-on reinforcement
for concepts. Each chapter includes a QR code to enable readers to
access primary sources. Readers are challenged to ask questions and use critical thinking
skills in response to calls to action: Essential Question, Consider
This!, and Did You Know? Photographs and
illustrations enhance content and provide excellent visual interest.
The book
is well organized and the content expands on familiar facts and introduces
readers to details that are often overlooked. It is not only educational, but
is also a pleasure to read. The conversational tone and age-appropriate
vocabulary is appealing.
Recommended
for STEM home and school libraries.
