Learn about the science behind skateboarding! From the physics behind skateboard tricks, to the design of the skateboard's deck, wheels, and trucks, this high-interest book uses real-world examples to illustrate science concepts. Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, this Informational Text builds reading skills while engaging students' curiosity about STEAM topics. Packed with factoids and informative sidebars, this book features...

Imagine a career where you get paid to draw all day. That's what botanical illustrators do! Get inside the mind of a botanical illustrator, and learn how their intricate drawings of plants help science. Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, this Smithsonian Informational Text builds students' reading skills while engaging their curiosity about STEAM topics through real-world examples. It features a hands-on STEAM challenge that...

The Horten Ho airplane was made in Nazi Germany during WWII. Germany needed a new weapon, and hoped this experimental aircraft would help them win the war. The Horten Ho would have been a fighter jet with incredible speed, but it did not fly as planned. Learn about the Smithsonian Institution's efforts to restore this fascinating historical artifact and the challenges they faced during the restoration process. Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian...

In the 1970s, NASA wanted to build a new kind of spacecraft that could be used over and over again. The Space Shuttle Program was born, and NASA engineers and scientists were tasked with designing and creating the first shuttle. Nine years later, the first space shuttle was launched. Learn the history of the Space Shuttle Program and the many issues and problems that the engineers faced. Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, this...

People from around the world visit America's national parks to explore their wonder and beauty. The National Park Service (NPS) has been guiding and enhancing their experiences for more than a century. The NPS's mission is to protect, preserve, and open up these areas for everyone's "enjoyment, education, and inspiration." Learn how their hard work ensures the parks are enjoyable and accessible for everyone with this fascinating Informational Text...

Did you know the first battery-powered vehicle was created in the 1830s? People who attended the 1892 World's Fair in Chicago could see one. And in 1894, you could buy an "Electrobat" and travel 25 miles on a single charge! Since then, EVs have surged in popularity and have become much more technologically advanced. Learn the history of EVs, how they work, why they're good for the environment, and discover the future of the electric vehicle! Created...

Our planet is covered with volcanoes. They are fascinating natural wonders that are potentially dangerous and destructive. But, they are important to Earth's survival. Scientists who study volcanoes ask lots of questions. Let's find the answers and learn more about volcanoes--and the volcanologists who study them! Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, this Smithsonian Informational Text builds reading skills while engaging students'...

The ancient Polynesians were amazing navigators who traversed the Pacific Ocean and settled in its many islands. How did they travel such extreme distances and know where they were going without the use of modern technology like smartphones, satellites, or even magnetic compasses to guide them? Learn the answer to these questions in this book that uses real-world examples to illustrate science concepts. Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian...

The Inka were master farmers, builders, and planners. Living in the Andes Mountains, they farmed and built on steep slopes. In the Andes, water can be a destructive, unpredictable force. The Inka controlled water through careful study and engineering. From terraces for farming to royal palaces, the Inka built things to last. Learn how their ancient inventions are helping modern-day engineers develop solutions to modern-day problems with this fascinating...

The first astronauts in space only stayed for brief periods of time. But now, NASA scientists have developed technologies that allow astronauts to live in space long term. Learn about the challenges that astronauts face living in zero gravity and cramped quarters with this fascinating Informational Text created in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution! Build reading skills while engaging students' curiosity about STEAM topics through real-world...