Let's Find Out! Our Dynamic Earth

This book invites young readers to explore the science behind weather and climate and to discover how these forces shape the world around them. With the aid of visuals and age-appropriate language, readers will learn how the combination of different elements, such as temperature and wind, create Earth's weather. They will also learn the importance of understanding weather patterns and how they affect various aspects of life. Sidebar content throughout the book will also enhance the reader's experience and encourage the development of critical-thinking skills.

Climate change is a hot topic, but few readers understand exactly how it has disrupted Earth's natural cycles. This text offers a straightforward explanation of the carbon cycle, including what carbon is, the places where it is found, and how it is exchanged. In addition, readers will gain insight into how human activity affects the carbon cycle in nature. Each chapter features charts or photographic illustrations to enhance comprehension, as well as vocabulary boxes and open-ended questions that invite readers to think critically about the topic.

The ground beneath our feet feels sturdy and still, but Earth is actually covered in moving plates. These large plates make up the outer layer of Earth's surface and sit on top of another layer made up of molten rock. Borders between two plates are often the site of earthquakes and volcanoes. The plates can slide against each other, crash into each other, move apart, and even create mountains. There is so much to learn about what's going on beneath the surface, as is provided here for your readers, perfectly encapsulated.

From tiny organisms to plants and people, all living things need nitrogen. This engaging STEM resource introduces elementary school readers to the importance of the nitrogen cycle in clear, easy-to-follow text. Readers will learn why nitrogen is an essential nutrient for growth, where nitrogen is found, the important role legumes play in the nitrogen cycle, and more. Colorful illustrations and photographs add interest and additional information to each page. Compare and Contrast, Vocabulary, and Think About It sidebars support Common Core standards. This is a must-have book for any shelf.

Destructive and awe-inspiring, the eruption of a volcano is a dramatic demonstration of nature's power. However, there is much more to the process than what we see on the surface. Readers will explore the geological structure that makes volcanic activity possible and follow the sequence of events that culminate in an eruption. In addition to eruptions, this text examines other geothermal activities, the benefits of which may surprise young readers. It includes vivid photographs to heighten interest and clear diagrams to enhance comprehension.

Water covers almost 75 percent of Earth's surface. People, plants, and animals all need water to live. Through accessible language and engaging images, readers will follow the flow of water through the water cycle. Using real-life examples, readers will identify water cycle steps such as evaporation from puddles and condensation found in clouds or fog. The text also shares opportunities to observe the powerful movement of water. Sidebars offer further information, such as questions that invite readers to consider water use in everyday life and the many human-related activities that affect the water cycle.

Earth has been shaped by thousands of years of weathering and erosion. These forces have created amazing landforms around the world, from rock arches to deep canyons. This book introduces readers to the science behind erosion and weathering. Readers will dig deep to uncover the many forces that impact the shape of the earth, including wind, water, and living creatures. Through accessible text, conversation-starting sidebars, and eye-catching photographs, readers will gain a deep understanding of the science behind our dynamic Earth.

The rock cycle is a story millions of years in the making. From metamorphic rock to magma and igneous rock to sedimentary rock and back again, rock is constantly forming, wearing down, and forming again. With news about the environment in the forefront, an understanding of how the natural world works is more important than ever, and this book is an ideal companion to any earth science curriculum. This journey to the center of Earth and back will have kids rocking and rolling in no time.