Big science ideas

"Looks at the positive, negative, and neutral effects that result when different kinds of animals interact with each other. Symbiotic relationships highlighted include birds and fish that clean parasites off other animals, bacteria that help keep animals and people healthy, mosquitoes that pass diseases such as malaria, predators that hunt prey, and scavengers that help clean the earth. Other examples of symbiotic relationships include several kinds of animals. Students are asked to illustrate symbiosis in human relationships that are similar to those found in nature."--Provided by publisher.

"Foxes, rabbits, mongooses, rats, starlings, turtles, Burmese pythons, and Asian carp are just a few of the invasive animals introduced by people into countries and ecosystems to which they do not belong. This important book describes how these animals are destroying habitats and endangering the lives of native animals, some of which have been brought close to extinction. Students will learn how some arrived accidentally on boats, while others were brought in by people, to be used either as a form of pest control on farms, for hunting or hobbies, or as pets that sometimes get abandoned in the wild by owners. Many native animals, such as raccoons, squirrels, and coyotes have also become invaders in cities, back yards, and homes. Students can research invasive species in their areas and help find ways to stop these wild invaders from taking over the natural habitat."--Provided by publisher.

Describes what a top predator is, explains how they thrive at the top of a food chain, and details why some top predators are endangered.

An introduction to biomes that discusses living and nonliving things, forests, grasslands, savannas, deserts, tundra, and marine and freshwater biomes; and includes a glossary.

Introduces and explains the difference between endangered and extinct.

Explores some of the most extraordinary plants and animals of the natural world, from the largest land animals to the many types of trees that populate the planet. Discusses how readers can protect nature by recycling and becoming environmentally conscious and includes full-color photographs and a glossary.

Depicts the process of pollination and the insects and birds that move the plants' pollen from one flower to the next and illustrates cross-pollination, self-pollination, and wind pollination as well. Describes the importance of pollination in making new fruit, seeds, or plants and discusses how some pollinators are being decimated due to pesticides and diseases. Includes color photos, a glossary, and an index.

Full-color photographs and simple text introduce young readers to various animals, fish, and reptiles that have skeletons.

Photographs and simple text introduce children to the different types of animals without backbones that can be found in various parts of the world, including those on land and under the water.

Teaches children about the differences and similarities between warm-blooded and cold-blooded animals.