Energy for Children Video Series

K-Gr 4-Part of the Schlessinger Science Library, this live-action series focuses on energy. The female narrator guides viewers as a "silent film" actor, cartoon character, and multiethnic cast of children illustrate the points being taught. Transfer of Energy discusses potential and kinetic energy and energy transfer between them. Conservation of Energy focuses on saving energy and includes information on recycling and composting. Uses of Energy asks where energy comes from and how it is used, including future possibilities. What Is Energy defines energy as the ability to do work and concentrates on heat, chemical, mechanical and electromagnetic energy. All About Heat talks about aspects of heat and cold including ways we measure heat (Fahrenheit and Celsius), convection, radiation, conduction, expansion, contraction and states of matter. Each video includes reviews of what has been learned as well as several simple scientific experiments. New terms are defined in context. A wide range of energy sources is explored, while it is clearly stated that the sun is the ultimate source of most of our energy. There is some overlap between videos, which helps to reinforce key concepts. This series clearly explains basic facts about energy and would be a valuable addition to science collections.

Copyright 2001 School Library Journal. Used with permission.

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