"Double-page spreads proceed logically, from the nature of what is being measured, through the units used and their origins, to the various devices used for the actual measuring."--The Horn Book Guide
"Covers early ways of measuring, the development of standardized systems of weights and measures, and procedures for using precise modern devices to calibrate things as diverse as the temperature of lava eruptnig from a volcano to the distance between the Earth and the moon.... Offer[s] a great deal of information and the Eyewitness-like format is appealing and will attract browsers."--School Library Journal
"A fine introduction packed with bright contemporary photos and illustrations.... Looks at early measuring methods, the development of devices and ratios for measuring, and how these in turn affected and change human perceptions of measurement."--Children's Bookwatch
Product Description
The Story of Weights and Measures describes the history of measurement systems ranging from the earliest methods of measuring, using parts of the body such as palms and digits, to the latest high-tech systems used to quantify atoms and stars. The reader learns about how we evaluate temperature and the weather, about maps and map scales, light years, gravity, and modern balances and scales. Organized chronologically from ancient history to the present, the volume is illustrated throughout with colorful photographs and drawings of artifacts and objects. Along with boxes which highlight inventions, personalities, and amazing facts, The Story of Weights and Measures supplies the reader with a timeline, a glossary and an index.
The Signs of the Times series presents the history of basic systems of communication and calculation for children aged eight to ten.
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