Overview

From cobras and copperheads to pythons and boas, all types of snakes are covered in this book of 40 science experiments, art projects, and games that help budding herpetologists gain a greater appreciation for these slithering reptiles. Activities include making foldable fangs to learn how snakes' teeth and jaws work together; simulating cytotoxic snake venom while making a tasty snack using an everyday enzyme found in pineapple; and mimicking the sound a rattlesnake makes using a rubber band, a paper clip, and an envelope. Engaging, simple, and safe experiments teach kids about the biology of snakes, such as how they use their tongues and nostrils to detect smells, how they are cold-blooded and sensitive to subtle changes in temperature, and how they can detect the slightest vibrations or tremors. Kids do not need a snake for any of the activities and will delight in all the strange snake facts and gross-out projects such as Snake Stink—where they create their own signature stink and test how well it repels potential predators.Did you know...•Snakes do not need to be coiled to strike. They can strike from any position, even underwater!•Cobras and coachwhips are two of the few snakes that can move in a straight line forward while keeping their upper body raised off the ground•Snake venom can actually help humans too: a blood pressure medicine was developed from the venom of a Brazilian pit viper, and over 60 other treatments have been created from snake venoms

Reviews

"Here's a book for the real reptile lover, or just the science nut. Written very scientifically, but at an accessible level, it honors the serious nature lover. And good news for parents: no real snakes needed!"  —Tales Told Tall

"Elementary students may want to become ophiologists after trying out a few of the investigations in Awesome Snake Science!  . . . Overall, this book would be a useful tool for teachers undertaking reptile studies or as a nice, but not mandatory, purchase for a classroom or school library."  —Green Teacher

"It's exactly the kind of hands-on learning book that takes what could be dry subject matter and makes it nearly irresistible to children—really a great achievement by [author Cindy] Blobaum."  —You Know, For Kids 

"This book is a hit in many ways, but most importantly it works because it teaches readers to think like scientists, inspiring them to seek out the true facts about snakes."  —Good Reads with Ronna

"The variety, originality, and ease of most of the activities assure satisfied readers and repeated use."  —School Library Journal

"This book goes a long way to helping the average student understand reptiles and support their interests. The simulations, models, and facts will be appreciated by both young readers and their teachers."  —National Science Teachers Association 

"There is enough information here - and enough activity recommendation - that you could probably make an entire year's science curriculum from this!...This might be an especially good way to engage a young boy who thinks school is 'boring!'"  —Titus2Homemaker

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