Review of Non-Fiction Science Picture Books for Pre-School Children

Abstract

Science education in the pre-school period can use different methods and techniques. One such method is the Turkish language practice of non-fiction and fiction science picture books for children. It is thought that non-fiction science picture books are important in terms of developing children's scientific vocabulary. This study aimed to examine non-fiction science picture books for children selected from different publishers. The research was carried out using the document analysis method, a descriptive research model. In the study, data on 59 science-themed picture books selected from different publishing houses were collected through the Picture Story Assessment Scale and the Assessment List for Children’s Non-Fiction Science Picture Books developed by the researcher. According to the results of the research evaluating non-fiction science picture books for pre-school children using the Assessment Scale for Children’s Picture Books, all the books are at an adequate level; the most narrated non-fiction science picture books are preferred; and the problem-solving process is included in most of the books. The most common scientific content among the standard science fields, is life science, especially environmental and weather events. The number of scientific words used is sufficient and most of the books are suitable for science education. It is thought that the science-themed children's picture books selected according to the evaluation list included in this study will be beneficial in terms of realizing science education effectively. Suggestions are made in light of the research results.