Mason Jar Science

April 1, 2018
Forty science-related activities that can be done in a canning jar by young experimenters.A former editor of FamilyFun magazine introduces his collection of activities with one double-page spread about science and the use of the scientific method to solve mysteries, and another on the advantages of the mason jar: widely available in various sizes, inexpensive and durable, heatproof, transparent, sealable, and often equipped with helpful measuring lines. Like many such compilations of "experiments" these are really demonstrations or ways to concoct a substance with which to experiment. Organized into chapters by study areas--chemistry, earth science, botany, biology, and physics--these relatively simple procedures are clearly presented, most compressed into just a two-page spread. Each offers a short introduction, a list of materials and tools, step-by-step instructions, "What to Watch for," and "What's Going on." Separate text boxes headed with the phrases "Speak Like a Scientist," "Science in Real Life," or "Tell Me More" add extra information. Sometimes there are suggestions for variations and further exploration. All are illustrated with photographs, sometimes showing the experiment in progress, often showing middle-grade experimenters diverse in gender and race. There's making goo ("also known as gack"), growing seedlings, dissolving an egg's shell, and physics magic using air pressure, among many familiar activities, but the demonstration of the versatility of a mason jar is impressive.An appealing and accessible collection. (index not seen) (Nonfiction. 8-14)

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April 15, 2018
Grades 3-6 This collection of science experiments aims for at-home, low-cost ease: the experiments can all be conducted in nothing more complex than a mason jar. Because mason jars are ubiquitous and developed for processing food at high heat and preserving it for long periods of time, they are ideal vessels for a variety of scientific uses. After a brief testimony to the importance of science and a slightly muddled flow chart on methods, the author divides the experiments according to discipline: chemistry, earth science, botany, biology, and physics. Processes are clearly explained, with tips about what is happening and what to watch out for. Sidebars introduce scientific vocabulary, safety reminders, real-life applications for the experiments, and further information. The layout is clean, with judicious use of colored fonts, line illustrations, and color photography of kids conducting the experiments, and the tone is congenial and enthusiastic. This is a great book for refreshing collections, as it will appeal to kids who love science, as well as those who simply need a manageable assignment.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)