Given the reviews of this book, Bright ideas (Rossi, 2005) seems like a good selection for middle school students - even if they still are reading slightly below 6th level. The text is clear, the pages contain helpful colorful images. A variety of inventions are presented, and the inventors include minorities and women (which is really nice for diversity). For an activity with this text, I would assign a type of search. Students would choose among a few modern inventions, and then find 3 inventors whose inventions contributed to the modern product. Students would need to express - in drawing or writing - how the older invention links to the modern invention. Depending upon the reading level of the class as a whole, this may be a paired-work activity.
Rossi, A. (2005). Bright ideas: The age of invention in America 1870-1910.
Des Moines, IA: National Geographic Children's Books.
Hi Ayanna! What a great find - This book looks so interesting. I think that students will actually like to read this book, which makes scientific discovery interesting and fun! I also really like the picture and how it shows women. Additionally, your idea for the assignment is excellent, especially the part about linking the old and new inventions. Thanks so much for sharing!
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