Teacher Created Materials: 1983 books

You've probably heard of lions and tigers. Perhaps you've seen them at the zoo. But have you heard of the clouded leopard? This shy member of the cat family is an endangered species. Their shyness makes studying them a challenge for zookeepers and scientists. Find out why they are so special, and...

What happens after death? That was a big question for ancient Egyptians. They believed that a person needed his or her body in death as much as in life. So they did all they could to preserve and protect the body. For them, preparing for life after death was an important part of life! Learn about...

Imagine a career where you get paid to draw all day. That's what botanical illustrators do! Get inside the mind of a botanical illustrator, and learn how their intricate drawings of plants help science. Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, this Smithsonian Informational Text...

Watching surfers is mesmerizing. It looks like they are magically gliding over the water. But what looks like magic is actually science in action! Surfers use science to select the right surfboards and to understand the motion of the ocean. Learn about the science behind surfing with this high-interest...

Learn about the science behind skateboarding! From the physics behind skateboard tricks, to the design of the skateboard's deck, wheels, and trucks, this high-interest book uses real-world examples to illustrate science concepts. Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, this Informational...

Navigation instruments have changed over time. Lodestones, sunstones, and sextants helped early navigators find their way. Modern technology makes navigation more precise than it has ever been. But the roots of navigation still remain. Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, this...

The Wright brothers wanted to build a flying machine. The path to achieve their dream was filled with many obstacles. Countless hours would be spent studying and testing their plans. But their hard work paid off, and today they are known as the "forefathers of flight." Created in collaboration...

California's government has a lot in common with the federal government. Both have a Constitution and three branches. Learn how these three levels of government—local, state, and federal—work together to make, enforce, and interpret the laws. This primary source reader details how California's...

Junípero Serra was an influential Franciscan missionary who created missions that stretched from San Francisco to San Diego. His impact on California is still felt—and debated—today. Explore the history of California's iconic missions with this primary source reader that builds literacy and social...

Cephalopods have evolved with a strong set of skills that allow them to survive in their aquatic world. Scientists are fascinated by their ability to change color, the ways they ward off predators, and their methods of communication. In time, scientists hope that by studying these creatures, they...

People from around the world visit America's national parks to explore their wonder and beauty. The National Park Service (NPS) has been guiding and enhancing their experiences for more than a century. The NPS's mission is to protect, preserve, and open up these areas for everyone's "enjoyment,...

Where does our food come from? The history of farming provides much "food for thought." In the past, farmers used natural farming methods, but modern inventions like pesticides and GMOs have changed farming--and the food we eat. Today, a natural food revolution is taking place. Learn how...

Energy literally makes the world go 'round. Without it, nothing would live, move, or react. While energy cannot be created or destroyed, we rely on it to change form when we warm our hands with a cup of hot cocoa, ride a roller coaster, and digest our food. From potential to kinetic and electrical...

What do the companies Bee Sweet Lemonade, Mo's Bows, Man Cans, and Stinky Feet Girlz have in common? They were all started by young entrepreneurs! This inspiring math reader describes the real-life success stories of the young individuals who created businesses selling lemonade, candles, clothing,...