Continuing to grow as a science learner means more connections to everyday scientific phenomena and a larger academic vocabulary.  Our elementary science classes look at larger systems like biomes and the water cycle to make sense of what they experience each day. Books are still an important part of creating that spark for a hands-on exploration but they are also used for opening up conversation points about how the characters might have experiences with the natural world that are different than our own. This type of empathy is something that helps us understand our place in the world better and makes us more mindful science learners.