Self-Driving Car - eBook-Library

Self–Driving Car stands out in allowing readers to view the idea of driving through diverse lenses and perspectives. To begin with, it starts out with a background on self–driving cars and how the concept evolved from fantasy to reality; no longer does it exist as an unrealistic extract from a movie, now engineers are actively involved in making it a reality. Even though developing and improving this invention involves multiple challenges, designers and engineers creatively confront difficulties related to computers, electronics, cameras, and maps. Another important feature of this book is related to the careful selection of real–life pictures to visually reveal the story of improvements to self–driving cars. Not only does the vivid imagery show these cars in action, it also highlights important features and realistic benefits of their use.

This book provides glimpses into the lives of people involved in the advancement of electric cars. Two such innovators are Elon Musk and Robert Fenton. Within a language arts classroom setting, students can either complete compare/contrast graphic organizers related to individuals or create timelines to show the progression of self–driving cars. Students can even outline possible benefits and setbacks of owning these driverless cars. Additional applications can be made in STEM related areas as students view the use of technology and construction of new features.

Although this book is most appropriate for upper elementary students, it can also be utilized in other grades within centers and as supplemental reading material. The additional books and internet sources recommended by the author can used by students to further stimulate their interest and support their research in this area. The future of self–driving cars is promising and students will definitely be intrigued by its progress!

NSTA, January 2017