This article reports on the development of a methodology that integrates virtual and hands-on inquiry in a freshman introductory biology course. Using a two time x two order-condition design, an effective combination (blend) of the two environments was evaluated with 39 freshman biology participants. The quantitative results documented no…

This book is designed to introduce students to a variety of fascinating desert ecosystems through a series of learning activities including games, graphs, experiments, and crafts. Each section contains an information section along with student activities and worksheets. The section topics are sand, scorpions, and snow; scenic sculpture; desert…

This book presents a selection of articles published in "Science and Children", "Science Scope", and "The Science Teacher", all journals published by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), that cover all grade levels from elementary through secondary education. It describes how to organize and conduct a successful science fair. Contents…

This educator's guide, developed for students in grades 2-4, discusses the field of aeronautics. It begins with education standards and skill matrices for the classroom activities, a description of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) aeronautics mission, and a brief history of aeronautics. Activities are written for the…

Sound, like light, travels in waves. Young students (grades K-4) learn about the amazing journey of sound--from the source that creates the sound to the mechanics of the ear that enable it to be heard. Children discover why sound needs a "medium" to travel, why there is no sound in space, and how certain animals are able to…

Describes the working of an exhibit in the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum in which separated water drops from two nozzles collide to make interesting shapes. Discusses the calculation of the vibration frequency after the drop breaks away from the nozzle and the effect of drop size and surface tension on this frequency. (JRH)

A series of charts lists weekly activities for conducting a hands-on science laboratory in grades K-6. Arranged by grade level, the charts complement chapters in the "Gateways to Science" textbook series (McGraw-Hill, 1979). For each week, a concept to be explored is tagged to a 45-minute activity. This document was selected by the…

Modeling is an important step in the engineering process. In this activity, students create a model of an object of their choice using LEGOs (plastic building blocks), giving them skills and practice in techniques used by professionals. Students sketch as they build their objects. This activity facilitates a discussion on models and their…

After reading the story "Dear Mr. Henshaw" by Beverly Cleary, students build an alarm system for something in the classroom as the main character, Leigh, does to protect his lunchbox from thieves. Students learn about alarms and use their creativity to create an alarm system to protect their lockers, desk, or classroom door. This activity uses a…

Describes the construction and use of an electrooptic apparatus that can be incorporated into the classroom to test liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and introduce students to experiments of an applied physics nature with very practical implications. Presents experiments that give students hands-on experience with technologies of current interest to…

Presents laboratory activities focusing on the development of sexually mature gametophytes from single-celled spores. Includes techniques for culture and manipulation of gametophyte development from spores that are applicable for hands-on activities for students at all levels. (MKR)

The Developmental Approaches in Science, Health and Technology (DASH) program provides opportunities for students to experience the worlds of scientists and technologists in elementary classrooms. It aims to build an understanding of technology and science through constructivism and hands-on science for K-6 graders. This instructional guide…

This kit introduces the basic concepts of habitat through challenging and engaging interdisciplinary, hands-on activities. The material is designed for K-8 educators working in traditional and non- traditional classrooms with the goals of increasing awareness of the ways habitats work and why they are important. This kit consists of four…

One creative way that elementary science educators can teach their students about animal communication is to give them glow sticks and a set of cards with descriptions of what different firefly flash signals mean. The paper describes such a project and presents related activities. (SM)

Describes the use of a laboratory-based exam in mechanics that makes students use metersticks, stopwatches, and spring scales to examine physical situations, make some calculations to predict what will happen, and then test their predictions. Includes a description of the lab stations for the actual exam. (JRH)