These solid earth science introductions provide definitions of various earth materials and their properties, as well as explanations of the formation processes and the ways in which humans use them. Accurate information is interspersed with questions, most embedded in captions that accompany color photographs, to encourage careful observation and reasoning. Diagrams, maps, and other visuals are very clear. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

STORAD, Conrad J. Uncovering Earth's Crust . maps. ISBN 978-1-4677-0020-7 ; ISBN 978-1-4677-1018-3 . LC 2012017604. WALKER, Sally M. Figuring Out Fossils . ISBN 978-1-4677-0019-1 ; ISBN 978-1-4677-1020-6 . LC 2012013840. WALKER, Sally M. Marveling at Minerals . chart. ISBN 978-1-4677-0022-1 ; ISBN 978-1-4677-1021-3 . LC 2012010392. WALKER, Sally M. Researching Rocks . maps. ISBN 978-1-4677-0018-4 ; ISBN 978-1-4677-1022-0 . LC 2012017606. WALKER, Sally M. Studying Soil . ISBN 978-1-4677-0023-8 ; ISBN 978-1-4677-1023-7 . LC 2012022475. ea vol: 40p. (Searchlight Books: Do You Dig Earth Science? Series). diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Lerner. 2013. PLB $27.93; ebook $20.95. Gr 3-6 These traditional presentations cover the rudiments of earth science with mixed results. In an effort to keep things introductory, theories are sometimes stated as facts and important terms and details lack emphasis and clear explanations. With its relatively simple topic, Soil is the strongest title, while Crust is the most confusing because it attempts to explain too much too quickly. Photos and diagrams with descriptive captions are included, sometimes only adding confusion. Other topics beg for further visual clarification. Fossils, Crust , and Minerals touch upon scientists' roles. Half-hearted suggestions for hands-on activities show up in Rocks and Soil . Most titles end with an explanation of the topic's relevance or how readers can become involved in protecting or studying them. Teaching resources are available from the publisher's website.