23 April is recognised as the World Book and Copyright Day by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). On 4 April 2017, Scientix published eight great science books selected by its Scientix Ambassadors to give you the opportunity to read some or all of them before the World Book Day. Save the date and join us on this occasion to celebrate great literature in the field of science!
Click on one of the buttons to see the two selected books per subject.
For the STEM Discovery Week 24 to 30 April 2017, teachers are invited to participate in a discussion in an open forum here about the selected books and share ideas on how they can be used in science lessons. Scientix will award the best ideas shared with this community.
The goal of the competition is twofold:
- To raise general awareness about science and scientific literacy through a community based approach and peer-reviewed exchange of information.
- To show how scientific literature can improve classroom discussions and activities.
You are welcome to use the forum here to introduce yourself and to get to know other colleagues interested in science literature. Scientix will use the discussion forum to inform you as soon as new discussion threads are added on 23 April. You will receive a notification by e-mail if you introduce yourself in the discussion thread.
These are the eight science books selected for the World Book Day and STEM Discovery Week 2017! In order to compete in our competition, start by:
- Read one or more of the selected titles
- Design an idea for a classroom activity based on your book
- Share your idea with peers in the discussion forum above during the STEM Discovery Week 24 to 30 April
Science books
 
This world famous book in the field of physics explores the origin of our universe, including the Big Bang and black holes, and the relevance of concepts such as space and time and other forces that govern our existence. Author: Stephen Hawking Originally published: 1988 |
Uncle Tungsten was a producer of tungsten-filament lightbulbs who ignited Oliver Sacks’ interest in chemistry, especially chemical reactions and the periodic table. This book is a fascinating story about scientific discoveries and inspiration during childhood. Author: Oliver Sacks Originally published: 2001 |
A brief history of time |
Uncle Tungsten: Memories of a chemical boyhood |
Technology books
A young boy, who is the outcome of genetic experiments, possesses great tactical skills playing computer games. This may be just what mankind has been waiting for in order to fight back against invasive alien species. Author: Orson Scott Card Originally published: 1985 |
 
This futuristic science-fiction describes the technical evolution of robots that are originally developed in order to serve humans. However, they eventually become so advanced that humans become obsolete. Author: Isaac Asimov Originally published: 1950 |
Ender's Game |
I, Robot |
Engineering books
Engineers can see a structure where there is none in place, possessing the ability to turn problems into solutions and solutions. This book collects narratives and case studies to show how engineering is used to innovate, standardise and optimise. Author: Guru Madhavan Originally published: 2015 |
 
This book is a collection of 25 entertaining experiments and activities in engineering in everyday situations, including step-by-step instructions, expected results of each activity and simple scientific background for each experiment. Author: Janice VanCleave Originally published: 2007 |
Applied minds: How engineers think |
Engineering for every kid: Easy activities that make learning science fun |
Mathematics books
Robert really dislikes studying maths, but this changes when he meets the Number Devil, who appears in Robert’s dreams to teach him maths and inspire him. With the help of the Number Devil, Robert gets to know fractions, geometry and other mathematic concepts. Author: Hans Magnus Enzensberger Originally published: 1997 |
Mr. Ruche receives a delivery to his house in Paris including a great number of maths books from Brazil. His parrot likes to talk about maths and together they give lessons to children. However, he soon discovers the real reason behind the delivery. Author: Denis Guedj Originally published: 1998 |
The number devil: a mathematical adventure |
The Parrot's Theorem |
STEM Discovery Week IN NUMBERS
This infograph demonstrates the main achievements accomplished and outreach during STEM Discovery Week 2017.
COMPETITIONS
‘MAKE YOUR OWN POSTER’
‘Make your own Poster’ with your favourite subjects and resources from the Scientix Resources Respository. Read more.
‘ORGANISE A STEM EVENT’
Organise or participate in an event dedicated to any STEM subject and opportunities from 24 to 30 April 2017. Read more.
‘YOUR FAVOURITE SCIENCE BOOK’
Share ideas for classroom activities in relation to selected science books and discuss them in an open forum. Read more.