Flow, Spin, Grow
Looking for Patterns in Nature

Flow Spin Grow

"Flow, Spin, Grow: Looking for Patterns in Nature" is a children's book that explores the recurring patterns found in the natural world. Written by Patchen Barss and illustrated by Todd Stewart, this book aims to inspire young readers aged 4-8 to observe and discover hidden structures and shapes in nature.

The book focuses on three main patterns:

  1. Branching: Found in tree structures, root systems, and even within our bodies (e.g., lungs and veins).
  2. Spiralling: Observed in storms, pine cones, snail shells, and ears.
  3. Spinning: Seen in electrons, moons, yo-yos, and galaxies.

Through brief text and full-spread illustrations, the book encourages children to ask questions about why things are the way they are, fostering scientific inquiry. Stewart's multi-layered screen prints showcase the inherent beauty of nature, from the curve of a human ear to the spiralling arms of galaxies.

The author, Patchen Barss, drew inspiration from his experience as both a science writer and a parent. He noticed that children often ask questions similar to those posed by research scientists, highlighting the natural curiosity and scientific mindset of young learners. The book aims to help kids understand that we are all connected to nature and part of its patterns.

"Flow, Spin, Grow" serves as an invitation for children to apply creativity and inspiration to scientific observation. It emphasizes the pleasure of unlocking the universe's secrets and understanding why things are the way they are – an activity equally beloved by scientists and children.

Author: Patchen Barss

Is mathematics something we invent or something we discover? Either way, math — and science — tell us new stories about the nature of our world, our universe, and our own humanity. Patchen Barss tells those stories in books for children and adults.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Owlkids
  • Format: Paperback
  • Print length: 32 pages
  • Dimensions: 19.69 x 0.25 x 25.4 cm
  • Reading age: 4-8 years old
  • Publication date: 15 Mar. 2022
  • ISBN: 1771475196

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A bit more Patchen Barss and Flow, Spin, Grow.

Patchen Barss author

Let's dive into the world of Patchen Barss and his fantastic book Flow, Spin, Grow, which is an absolute gem for primary school teachers and home educators.

Patchen Barss takes a whimsical yet deeply insightful approach to explaining the fascinating phenomena of nature through the lens of mathematics. Imagine your students' eyes lighting up as they discover how a sunflower's seeds follow the Fibonacci sequence or how the graceful curve of a nautilus shell is actually a logarithmic spiral. Flow, Spin, Grow isn't just a math book; it's a treasure trove of wonder waiting to be unlocked in your classroom.

For teachers and parents juggling a million tasks, this book provides a refreshing way to integrate STEM into everyday learning. You don’t need to be a math wizard to use it—Barss explains complex concepts in an easy-to-digest, engaging manner that's perfect for young minds. Plus, the hands-on activities are a blast! Picture your students creating their own spirals and patterns, not just on paper but in the garden, kitchen, and beyond. It's learning by doing, which, let's be honest, is the best kind of learning.

So, if you're looking for a resource that brings a spark of joy and a dash of magic to your math and science lessons, Flow, Spin, Grow is the way to go. It's a delightful blend of fun and education, making those tricky concepts not just accessible but downright enjoyable. Give it a spin in your lesson plans, and watch your students grow!

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