From School Library Journal
Gr 1-3--Bears from the massive grizzly to the lumbering giant panda and the diminuitive sun bear are the subject of this interactive animal kit. A central feature of this kit is a taped interview with Matt Reid, bear scientist and director of the Great Bear Foundation. The question and answer format includes information about the eight bear species, habitat, survival, behaviors, physical traits, and diet. A brief but interesting segment focuses on how humans should act when coming into direct contact with a bear in the wild. Reid also shares his reasons for becoming a scientist devoted to these complex creatures. The interview format will be easily followed by first through third graders. The language is simple but never cute or condescending. Recorded bear sounds; a song, "Three Little Bears"; and a poem, "What Bear Cub Saw" follow the interview. The tape's sound quality is occasionally weak in the interview portion, and parts are difficult to understand. The bear sounds, song, and poem are clearer. The guide serves as detailed support for teachers whose knowledge of bears is limited. Extensive factual information is combined with folklore, superstition, a short play and poetry about bears. Numerous activities and extensions are suggested; a "Bear Book List" includes children's books for emergent and fluent readers and classroom and teacher resources. Teachers and librarians seeking cross-curricular materials and activities will find this a rich resource.-Nancy L. Chu, Western Illinois University, Macomb distributors
Copyright 1997 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
About the Author
Robin Bernard is a naturalist who writes, draws, and paints. She is the author and illustrator of several education theme units as well as a number of picture books. She has written many educational and children's books and is a frequent contributor to
Ranger Rick magazine.
