Atlas

An atlas is a book of maps, often with supplementary illustrations and graphic analyses included. Atlas' can also be a volume of tables and charts that illustrate a particular subject. They are usually descriptive texts, giving greater understanding to a subject area. Most atlas' are written using a formal voice, lecturing the reader. Although many people utilize their GPS over the atlas as an aid in driving these days, there are still many atlas' that are useful in the classroom. They would be particularly helpful in Social Studies or Science units. They would primarily be used as a reference tool when discussing the subject of the atlas. Many times they would be useful in Geography lessons, but atlas' can be used in other content areas as well. There are many available that would be an asset to any classroom library, because they are full of information on a variety of topics. When looking for atlas' to add to the library, finding student-friendly text features and up-to-date information will be two of the most important factors.

Some of my favorite book choices:

World Picture Atlas
By: Holly Wallace

Wallace, H. (2009). World picture atlas. London, England: QEB Publishing.


Interest Level: K+
Grade Level: 2+
Lexile: Not Available
Guided Reading: Not Available

The World Picture Atlas explores the wildlife, cities, and wonders of the world. Twenty detailed maps take students on a fascinating journey of world geography and culture. Each page is full of pictures and information featuring plants and animals, people and places, produce and resources, and topography. The layout and facts presented are wonderful, and the pictures being used to share the information make it very easy for kids to read and understand. This book provides a way for young students to see what other countries offer, and begin to understand some larger global issues.  Students will also be able to compare and contrast the country they live in to the other countries in the world.


Scholastic Atlas of Oceans
Edited by: Mary Varilla
 
Varilla, M. (Ed.). (2004). Scholastic atlas of oceans. New York, NY: Scholastic Reference.

Interest Level: 4-7
Grade Level: Not Available
Lexile: Not Available
Guided Reading: Not Available


The Scholastic Atlas of Oceans covers a variety of topics. It tells students the location and layout of each ocean and sea in the world, and it discusses how oceans are formed, waves created, and coastlines come to exist. Each page includes vibrant, detailed illustrations of the ocean and its inhabitants. Captions provide readers with valuable information to help them understand the environment, and humankind's effects on fragile resources. Through maps and charts, students will be able to explore the science of the sea. With age-appropriate content and written by a credible source, this book makes information easy for students to obtain.