The Science Behind Track and Field

by Lisa J. Amstutz

Overview

Behind every long stride, high-flying pole vault, and perfectly controlled discus throw, science is at work. As a high jumper takes off, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. A discus thrower builds up momentum while spinning. Find out how science is involved in Olympic track and field events and how athletes take science into account in their quest for the gold medal.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781491481585
Publisher:	Capstone
Publication date:	01/01/2016
Series:	Science of the Summer Olympics
Pages:	32
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.31(d)
Lexile:	820L (what's this?)
Age Range:	8 - 14 Years

About the Author

Lisa Amstutz is the author of seven science books for children, one adult nonfiction title and many magazine and newspaper articles. Her educational background includes a B.A. in Biology and an M.S. in Environmental Science/Ecology. Lisa taught outdoor education for several years and still enjoys sharing her love of nature with children. Lisa lives on a six-acre hobby farm in rural Ohio with her husband and four children.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Going for the Gold 5

Chapter 2 Run Like the Wind 9

Chapter 3 One Giant Leap 17

Chapter 4 Throwing Competitions 25

Glossary 30

Read More 31

Critical Thinking Using the Common Core 31

Internet Sites 31

Index 32

Interviews

packed with charts, photo diagrams, and other infographics that explain science concepts; unique blend of high-interest content and science; short, chunked sections of information support reluctant and struggling readers; enlightening information about how science is involved in people's daily lives

Editorial Reviews

04/01/2016
Gr 5–8—Photos abound in this STEM-ready Summer Olympics series. Critical thinking questions at the end of each volume give them that one-two Common Core punch. The many textual asides on the photo-laden pages include ample information for burgeoning athletes who really want to know how physics plays into sports. Sir Isaac Newton's laws of motion, the crux of the most commonly known physics concepts, feature heavily in every book. The titles that focus on a specific sport or arena (Swimming) are stronger than the potpourri style of Soccer. All in all, these are great interdisciplinary reads. VERDICT A recommended first purchase for libraries looking to engage sports lovers in STEM topics.

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