Marshmallows, Mud Pies, and Messy Rooms

In the Marshmallows, Mud Pies, and Messy Rooms leveled reader, fundamental science facts in chemistry are explained through simply written text and colorful, fun illustrations. Children will discover that in chemistry a mixture is any two or more things mixed together. Mixtures can be made up of large things or things as small as molecules. For example, salt water is a mixture of salt molecules and water molecules. Atoms are defined as the fundamental building blocks of matter that can link together to form molecules.

There are different methods used for separating mixtures, such as by hand or with tools. Mixtures of molecules can be separated using processes such as paper chromatography, filtration, or evaporation. Soap can be used to separate oil from water because a soap molecule has an oily end and a watery end. The oily ends of soap molecules attract oil molecules, and the soap molecules form a ball around the oil, with the watery end of the soap molecules on the outside of the ball. This allows the soap molecules to interact with water, and the oil can be rinsed away. Examples of mixtures we use every day are shown.

A pronunciation guide of scientific terms is included. 24 pages filled with engaging, colorful illustrations. Reading Level 1-3, Interest Level 2-5.