How Much is a Million? is a great book that provides an interesting approach to helping children understand the true size and value of large numbers. David M. Schwartz, a true mathematician, puts numbers such as one thousand and one million into true perspective by showing their values in comparison to things that children can relate to. The book does not really have a true plot, but it still reads easily and is very enjoyable.
*Graphic found at Amazon.com
Grade Level: While I feel this book is great for children of all ages, I would use it in a 4th grade class, because I feel the intermediate grades would offer more flexibility as far as possible activities are concerned, due to their more advanced mathematical knowledge.
Concepts Addressed: Measurement, Estimation, Division, Multiplication, Word Problems
Possible Lessons: Because the intermediate grades would better appreciate the math done to achieve the comparisons in How Much is a Million, I feel a great activity to supplement this book would be to have my students create comparisons of their own. I would introduce the assignment by having my students follow along as I presented my sample comparisons.
Possible Connections to Other Subjects: Science (dinosaurs, sharks), Technology (research), History (Statue of Liberty)
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