What’s the Matter in Mr. Whiskers’ Room? by Michael Elsohn Ross invites young readers to explore the basics of matter—solids, liquids, and gasses—through fun experiments in a lively classroom setting. As Mr. Whiskers guides students in hands-on learning, the book encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for science. It makes abstract concepts accessible and engaging, showing children that science is something they can observe and enjoy in the world around them.

Integrated into our literature-based homeschool curriculum, What's the Matter in Mr. Whiskers' Room? serves as a helpful text that complements a unit on the states of matter. This curriculum utilizes the book in several compelling ways:

• Direct Application: Students are encouraged to replicate some of Mr. Whiskers' experiments, such as exploring the density of different materials and the effects of temperature on states of matter.
• Writing Assignments: Inspired by the experiments and discoveries in Mr. Whiskers' classroom, students are tasked with writing reflections, predictions, and conclusions based on their observations. 
• Comparative Analysis: Leveraging the narrative, students compare and contrast the properties of solids, liquids, and gasses found in their own environment.
• Vocabulary Expansion: As new scientific terminology is introduced through the story and practical application, students expand their vocabulary related to the states of matter and scientific investigation.