- Pairs social studies and science thematically
- Shakes up the curriculum with Shocker facts that interest this age group, and a lively page layout that encourages readers to discuss and share knowledge with one another
- Builds background knowledge and vocabulary through front-of-book features labeled Get on the Wavelength and High-Powered Words
- Includes a Comprehension Coach that appears regularly to model and reinforce key comprehension strategies
- Provides links to relevant Internet Web sites
- Exposes students to a variety of formats and text features