Unusual Farms

February 1, 2005
K-Gr 2 -Sturdy bindings and attractive photography can't rescue these slim offerings. The limited texts leave too many information gaps and there are some inaccuracies. "Farm Animals" begins with a photo of three Holstein cows with a small brown-and-white calf. It is doubtful that any of the three could have produced this offspring. The text gives the approximate ages that goats and cows begin to give milk, but doesn't mention the offspring necessary to produce it. This book also refers to a flock of sheep and a herd of cows as groups. In "Crops", a statement that plows and discs are used to break up the soil faces a photo of a tractor pulling a springtooth. In addition, this book suggests that cultivators pull weeds, while they are actually cut below the surface of the soil. Sweeping generalizations and incorrect information mar the text of "Long Ago"(e.g., silos were not used to store wheat or oats). "Unusual Farms" may leave children wondering what happens after the silkworm cocoons are "sent to the factories where the silk thread is unwound." Save budget dollars for better materials." -Eldon Younce, Harper Elementary School, KS"

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