Cathleen Small

Since the advent of computers, coding has played an important role in technology. In the twenty-first century, coders are needed now more than ever to ensure technologies continue to flourish and entertain. There are now many exciting career opportunities for coders in the entertainment and gaming industry. Many of today's most popular movies and television shows are increasingly dependent on computer-generated special effects. Meanwhile, video games have become masterpieces of art and animation, and are integral parts of entertainment franchises, extending a franchise's sales through games based on movies, and vice versa. This book uses full-color photographs, engaging sidebars, and personal accounts to discuss coding in the entertainment and gaming industries now and in the future. It provides sound advice on how aspiring student coders can turn their passion into a lucrative career.

The ink on the U. S. Constitution had hardly enough time to dry before American politics got its start. America has come a long way since those first days, when white males dominated politics. This edifying volume highlights women in Congress and other high political positions as well as men and women from the LGBTQ+ community, such as Tammy Baldwin, the first openly gay U. S. senator. Readers will also learn about politicians holding office from various economic and social backgrounds, races, cultures, and abilities. For example, Congressman Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma is one of only two Native Americans who have served in the 115th Congress.

Increasingly, schools are requiring students to produce science portfolios to reflect their body of work in scientific study. This book introduces students to the portfolio concept and how to select and present what they wish to include. It also covers the four types of project-based learning, controlled investigations, field investigations, design investigations, and secondary-research investigations, with projects drawing on the Next Generation Science Standards. A dozen hands-on projects connect readers with real-world skills they can apply in their community. Engaging sidebars provide students with interesting additional information related to the projects.

To many, cloning is the stuff of science fiction. However, for decades it has been an important piece of scientific development. This guidebook starts by looking at the foundational scientific theories that led to the exact replication of molecules, cells, and even organisms. Drawing on primary sources, this book gives biographical information on key players in the field of cloning and traces how their work built upon that of their predecessors, culminating in the successful cloning of a sheep. It looks at how cloning technology has advanced and is used today. Students will hone their critical thinking skills by exploring the ethical debate behind the use of cloning technology.

Television, movies, theater, and music are just a few of the entertainment industry's most popular niches, and its stars are often well-known around the world. In this entertaining and informative book, readers will learn more about celebrities who celebrate their diversity throughout history. Inspiring case studies include actor Micah Fowler, who has cerebral palsy; Kenyan-Mexican Academy Award-winner Lupita Nyong'o; pop superstar Justin Bieber, who grew up in low-income housing; and Ellen DeGeneres, the comedian who played a lesbian on television, and then publicly came out to the world.

Not long ago, people regularly died from diseases and accidents that harmed their vital organs, but in the space of the last six decades, scientists have begun to successfully perform lifesaving organ transplants. Over this relatively short period of time, the field of organ transplantation has made monumental gains. This book examines the science that led up to the first organ transplant and explores the lives of the scientists who played a role in this discovery. It also outlines the different types of transplants, including cross-species transplants. Finally, through discussions on ethical issues and technology, students will be encouraged to critically examine where science is going in the future of organ transplants.

Sports is a singular field, in that if someone has the skills it takes to play the game, at whatever level, it doesn't matter whether they are rich or poor, or what their background or culture is. And of course anyone can come together to enjoy a good game. Despite this inclusivity, the field of sports definitely has its weak points. Readers will gain new perspectives after reading about vital issues including stereotypes in various sports, the pros and cons of segregated versus inclusive sports, and the issues surrounding integrated sports.

Plant growth is a complicated topic that botanists and plant biologists devote their entire careers to studying. This book presents to elementary school students an accessible explanation of the process of how plants grow. It also describes how their life cycles work and how they must interact with the world around them to thrive. Additionally, this book examines environmental factors like disease and pollution by explaining what they are and how they impact plants' ability to grow. Young readers will learn the necessity of caring for plant life to improve the environment and create a greener future for the planet.

Hockey is a fast-paced game that requires a lot of stamina and agility from its players. How are hockey players able to keep up, and for such long periods of time? This book teaches readers about the rules and history of hockey, the mental preparation behind the great athletic effort, and the strategies utilized by both offensive and defensive players. Featuring spotlights on some of the best hockey players in the NHL, readers hear from their hockey idols that the sport is about both brains and brawn.

How did the Constitution establish the U. S. government? This question is at the heart of this engaging text about the history of the Constitution. Readers are given a detailed overview of how the Constitution was born and how it has been amended throughout history. Some of the subjects covered include the amendment process, the different interpretations of the Constitution, and how the Supreme Court uses the Constitution to determine outcomes of cases. Vibrant full-color photographs, informational graphic organizers, and fact-filled sidebars present this important social studies curriculum topic in an accessible way.

How are laws made? How many different types of courts are there? What kinds of punishments are issued for certain crimes? These questions and more are answered in this enlightening text, in which readers are introduced to the many facets of the United States judicial system. They will gain insight on the various laws made within the federal, state, and local branches of the judicial system, as well as learn the difference between felonies and misdemeanors. Full-color photographs, informational graphic organizers, and detailed sidebars also enhance the reading experience to help young people think critically about these relevant social studies curriculum topics.

Certain figures in history have proved to be particularly polarizing: are they a hero or are they a villain? The answer is rarely one or the other; most are complex individuals that can fit either profile depending on the situation. In the recent past, Chelsea Manning has been such a figure. After leaking thousands of classified and sensitive military and diplomatic documents, she was sentenced to thirty-five years in prison, but her sentence was commuted by President Obama shortly before he left office. Careful examination of Manning's actions and the culture and events surrounding them will provide readers with a nuanced view of this public figure.

Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world, but the best soccer players aren't just those who are physically strong. This book delves into the mental training behind the physical training. Readers learn about the importance of team building and motivation, the strategies that are used in different positions on the soccer team, and the history of soccer. The book even spotlights top soccer players and their secrets to success on the field. This book is sure to inspire soccer fans, players, and non-players alike.

The top basketball players know that it's more than their physical strength that helps them play a good game. If they aren't focused and aren't using their heads, all the muscle in the world won't help them in the game. This book explores how the mind works together with muscle strength and memory to create basketball players to be reckoned with. Readers are introduced to the basics of the game, learn their favorite players' strategies and tips, and discover the importance of mental toughness. This book is sure to inspire young readers, whether they're currently practicing on the court or not.

Football players are some of the toughest athletes in the world. They go through rigorous training to be able to take the tackling and injury risks of this aggressive, hands-on sport. Football is a sport that requires a lot of smarts, too. Just like chess, it's all about strategy and plays. With feature boxes, athlete spotlights, and strategies of both offensive and defensive positions, this book inspires readers to learn that the best teams in football have to go through just as much mental training as they do physical.

How did the Constitution establish the U. S. government? This question is at the heart of this engaging text about the history of the Constitution. Readers are given a detailed overview of how the Constitution was born and how it has been amended throughout history. Some of the subjects covered include the amendment process, the different interpretations of the Constitution, and how the Supreme Court uses the Constitution to determine outcomes of cases. Vibrant full-color photographs, informational graphic organizers, and fact-filled sidebars present this important social studies curriculum topic in an accessible way.

It's never too early to become an informed, active citizen. Citizens of the United States have certain rights and duties. Readers learn about these freedoms and responsibilities as they are presented with useful facts about U. S. citizenship. This accessible main text delves into what it means to be an active citizen, the importance of learning about the government and political leaders, why voting is crucial, how to get involved in causes that are important, and volunteering. Eye-catching full-color photographs, insightful sidebars, and information graphic organizers provide further understanding of this vital social studies and civics curriculum topic.

With current racial and political tensions, as well as the attention gained by movies like Loving, the 1967 landmark Supreme Court civil rights decision in Loving v. Virginia is still relevant. Primary sources help paint a picture of the cultural norms of a time when interracial marriage was still illegal in many states. Your readers will learn how the case of Loving v. Virginia found its way to the Supreme Court, and explore how it became a decision that changed the future of civil rights and interracial marriage in the United States.

Certain figures in history have proved to be particularly polarizing: are they a hero or are they a villain? The answer is rarely one or the other; most are complex individuals that can fit either profile depending on the situation. In the recent past, Chelsea Manning has been such a figure. After leaking thousands of classified and sensitive military and diplomatic documents, she was sentenced to thirty-five years in prison, but her sentence was commuted by President Obama shortly before he left office. Careful examination of Manning's actions and the culture and events surrounding them will provide readers with a nuanced view of this public figure.