This Palgrave Pivot reviews the history of the UK's Retail Prices Index (RPI) from its origins just after the Second World War to its controversial position today. Both the developments in the methodology of the index and the political and social context in which its development took place are closely examined. The authors explain how the RPI went from being the dominant measure of inflation for decades to its current position as an officially discredited index. Despite this status, it is still widely used and attracts much support from a range of stakeholders, including several areas of government. Important reading for anyone interested in both sides of the argument for and against RPI and the likely way forward for the measurement of inflation.

This Palgrave Pivot reviews the history of the UK's Retail Prices Index (RPI) from its origins just after the Second World War to its controversial position today. Both the developments in the methodology of the index and the political and social context in which its development took place are closely examined. The authors explain how the RPI went from being the dominant measure of inflation for decades to its current position as an officially discredited index. Despite this status, it is still widely used and attracts much support from a range of stakeholders, including several areas of government. Important reading for anyone interested in both sides of the argument for and against RPI and the likely way forward for the measurement of inflation.

This engaging and accessible book explains how scientists use models to help them understand systems in the natural world. Readers learn about different kinds of models and discover the similarities and differences between models and the real objects and processes they represent. Readers are given several opportunities to create their own models.

The survival of the giant panda depends on the survival of its only food: bamboo. Habitat loss from the destruction of bamboo forests in south central China where they live made the giant panda a vulnerable species. This book tells how habitat conservation and the creation of borrowing-and-breeding programs with zoos around the world kept the beloved bear from extinction. Teacher's guide available.

This informative book goes to great lengths to explain how scientists around the world use the metric system and related tools to help them compare, contrast, and analyze the measurement data they collect. Opportunities for hands-on learning make the content meaningful to readers as they refine their measuring skills.

Science uses evidence in explaining the natural world. Using relatable, real-world examples, this informative book shows readers how to construct an argument with evidence to support a claim. Readers will act and think like scientists as they learn how to distinguish between fact and opinion, and use evidence and reasoning to evaluate the claims of others.

Humpback whales are a true ecological success story. Readers will be enthralled by the story of these masters of the deep, listed as endangered in 1970. Protected by an international ban on hunting all whales in 1982, the humpback recovered so well it was no longer listed as endangered in most of the world by 2016. Teacher's guide available.

Scientists use different kinds of investigations depending on the questions they are trying to answer. Accessible text and child-centered examples guide readers as they learn to plan simple investigations based on fair tests to answer their own science questions.

Listed as a threatened species in 1975, the grizzly bears near Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming have made a remarkable recovery. Intriguing text and vibrant images will draw readers into the story of the bear's decline due to human interaction and habitat loss, and the strategies put in place that helped it return. Teacher's guide available.

The American alligator, which escaped extinction 65 million years ago, was nearly wiped out in the marshes and swamps of Louisiana and Florida in the last century. Today, they are thriving. This exciting book tells the story of how government protection, habitat preservation, and a campaign to reduce the demand for alligator products helped bring back these fierce-looking predators. Teacher's guide available.