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Qualities of a good Science Textbook |
1.
Content of the textbook
should be relevant.
It should be in accordance with the syllabus.
2.
Redundancy in the content
should be minimal.
Too much repetition of the same points can make a topic look big, reducing
children’s interest in reading the book.
3.
The language
of the writing and other content should
be simple, in accordance with the age of the children.
4.
The book should contain
relevant pictures, diagrams,
tables, illustrations (solved
examples and solved
numerical problems), and exercises/activities.
5.
The appearance of the book should be attractive. Colorful
books are more attractive. The size of the book should be appropriate.
6.
At the end of every chapter,
there should be a summary
and a list of references for further reading.
7.
For every chapter, there should be a guideline
given in the book, both for the teacher and for the students, about what is to be expected from them.
8.
The book should contain a glossary.
9.
The writing
of the content should be such that it takes care of the present
social issues. For example,
a problem given in a science textbook should not highlight that the father is working outside and the mother is staying
home. The opposite scenario should also be portrayed to break the gender bias.
10.
The content should be
based on the previous knowledge of the students. For example, if writing
contains a discussion about computers, an urban child may be able to relate it
to his or her previous
knowledge but a rural child may not be able to do so.
11.
The author of the book
should be experienced, expert, and efficient in dealing with the subject matter.
12.
The book should be written following
the maxims of teaching, in a logical
and psychological sequence.
13.
The printing of
the book should be necessarily clear and beautiful. Printing mistakes should
be avoided. The headings, sub-headings, and subject matter should be
prepared according to the requirements.
14.
The paper should be of good quality. The binding of the book should be strong.
15.
The book should be
affordable. An E-book version should be available, preferably for free or for a
lower price.
16.
The book should be revised from time
to time and necessary updates should be made.
17.
Before releasing a
book, it should undergo a field trial and necessary changes should be made from the feedback. Later, the book should also be reviewed
by experts.