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How to Write a Children's Book on the Periodic Table

Writing a science book that children actually want to read is difficult. According to New York Times writer Eric Nagourney, "It is all too common for the paramount importance of accuracy to conflict with the need to make a book enticing, or at least accessible." To write interestingly about science for children, the topic must be narrow and focused. The periodic table works to introduce the elements, basic atomic structure and phases of matter. This will open the doors of chemistry to children in a digestible, fun way.

Instructions

  1. Writing

    • 1

      Decide what information you want to focus on. Rather than explaining the difference between lanthanoids and actinoids, stick to broad groups such as metals, nonmetals, Noble gases and metalloids. Start with broad topics that the audience is familiar with, such as oxygen and copper and work your way into the more complex, unfamiliar ideas.

    • 2

      Pick a format for your book by deciding whether it will consist of lists, question-and-answer sections or a narrative. Try to include characters or nicknames for the elements, groups or periodic table to make the information fun and memorable.

    • 3

      Develop a tone for the book. It could be funny, weird or serious, but be consistent. Rather than merely listing the elements and explaining weight, particles and isotopes, throw in funny or weird facts to keep the reader's interest.

    • 4

      Choose illustrations that help the reader visualize the information. Images are a good place to insert humor without sacrificing accuracy of information. Children respond well to images, so include captions to reinforce the text of the book. Have at least one illustration or picture per page.

    Revision

    • 5

      Have children of different ages read the book to gauge interest, difficulty, age-appropriateness and weak spots. Give the readers short quizzes or ask them questions about major topics that the book aims to explain. Have them circle any word they don't understand and decide if they need more clarification or a pronunciation guide. For example, Ytterbium and Roentgenium will need phonetic spelling in parentheses, while helium and oxygen will not.

    • 6

      Check your book for accuracy. Using metaphors or other figures of speech to explain complex information about atomic structure or valence electrons is smart. However, if you are explaining the notion of unstable isotopes in broad, simplistic terms, be sure you aren't sacrificing factual information.

    • 7

      Balance words and pictures. On average, each page should be about one-third image, diagram, chart or illustration. Books for children ages 10 to 13 could have more text. Be sure that the captions for each picture are relevant and that they revisit information from the text.

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