Cool gizmos that will get kids' brains buzzing and COULD even lead them to create their own inventions When children are challenged and motivated, they become increasingly receptive to learning. That's the premise of this innovative book filled with creative and thought-provoking projects. Besides providing 12 ultra-neat projects such as a battery-operated, air-conditioned hat to keep them cool in summer, it encourages them to invent their own contraptions. Middle school children will have a blast building these nifty inventions, contraptions, and gadgets--some practical, some whimsical--that automate their world while they learn basic scientific principles. They will love impressing their friends and have fun using all of these easy-to-build projects, which include: Automatic fish feeder; Shoe buffer; Drink mixer; Jewelry carousel; Solar-powered hot dog cooker; Fountain with lights. With the help of step-by-step explanations and fun, instructive drawings children will learn how to use recycled toys and other common household items to create each invention. And at each turn, the book encourages them to experiment with variations on each project, leading them to come up with their own creative inventions. Children will have so much making these neat contraptions, they'll forget they're learning about science!
Ralph Turek holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Composition from the University of Cincinnati College -- Conservatory of Music. He has held teaching posts at George Mason University, the University of Maryland, and The University of Akron, where he is Professor of Music Composition and Coordinator of Graduate Studies. He is the author of
The Elements of Music: Concepts and Applications and of
Analytical Anthology of Music, both published by McGraw-Hill.
In Theory for Today's Musician, the author brings to bear insights and pedagogy acquired over a long career of teaching music theory, analysis, and composition informed by a background in jazz and arranging; as well as other experience that includes program annotation and fiction writing. The result is a textbook unique in style, tone, and relevance to today’s practicing musician and music educator.