Slime, molds, and fungi
by Elaine Pascoe
Blackbirch Press 1999
Great fit for 6th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
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Genre
Themes
- scientific inquiry
- ecosystems
- decomposition
- biodiversity
- life cycles
- adaptation
- observation and field study
About this book
This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces the strange and fascinating world of slime molds and fungi, from puffballs and mushrooms to the colorful creepers that glide across damp logs. Clear explanations show how these organisms grow, feed, and recycle nutrients in ecosystems. Sidebars, diagrams, and real-world examples make complex biology easy to understand. It’s a great pick for curious middle-grade readers who like gross-but-cool science and nature’s hidden helpers.
Setting: various natural habitats such as forests, leaf litter, and damp logs; occasional household and lab contexts
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Slime, molds, and fungi right for my child?
Yes — Slime, molds, and fungi is a great fit for 6th grade. The reading level is AR 6.7, which is typical for 6th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include scientific inquiry, ecosystems, decomposition.
How long does it take to read Slime, molds, and fungi?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Slime, molds, and fungi takes around 29m to finish. The book has 5,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Slime, molds, and fungi have an AR quiz?
Yes — Slime, molds, and fungi has an AR quiz available, worth 1 point. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Slime, molds, and fungi?
Slime, molds, and fungi has an AR reading level of 6.7, which places it at a 6th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.