Discusses the need for students to develop understanding of science by designing their own laboratory experiments. Lists examples of concepts that can be taught through student-designed biology experiments. Also gives suggestions and guidelines to ensure that laboratory time is manageable and productive. (DH)

College-level student inquiry projects are not easy to evaluate within the parameters of the academic grading system. One form of rubric-guided assessment has specific advantages in addressing both performance and product by allowing weighting of criteria, flexibility of criteria and standards based on the project, defining the major aspects of…

This book is a guide to help teachers develop performance-based curriculum projects that include authentic assessments. Section 1, Project-Based (or Performance-Based) Learning and Performance Assessment, describes and gives a rationale for this type of learning and assessment and project-based classrooms. It also notes the role of teachers and…

The chapters in this book reflect the work of science and mathematics educators who have worked for many years at the international level. As members of the International Consortium for Research in Science and Mathematics Education, their work provides readers with issues, models, practices, and research results that have applicability and…

Lists ten characteristics for a suitable focus topic for open-ended science problems. Examples of appropriate focus statements in the areas of life, earth, and space science are included. Discusses options open to teacher and student in providing open-ended learning. (CS)

This guidebook proposes a different way of teaching history: start from today and keep asking questions. The guidebook's theory is that as students investigate possible answers, they make connections across miles and centuries. It contends that, along the way, they experience that essential insight of the social studies point of view has…

Presented are four mathematical discoveries made by students on an arithmetical function using the Fibonacci sequence. Discussed is the nature of the role of the teacher in directing the students' discovery activities. (KR)

Describes a classroom project for middle school students where developmental theory was translated into instruction promoting cognitive development. (MD)

A case study is presented of a science class for 10 underachieving gifted intermediate grade students. The paper describes how a focus on overcoming underachievement might conflict with the need for active, hands-on science activities. Suggestions are offered for integrating the goals of raising self-concept while developing skills of inquiry and…

Numerous scientific concepts and principles underlie the operation of all manufactured products. Increasingly, teachers and science educators are coming to realize that students need more investigative "hands-on" activities and they need to see some rather immediate relevancy of what they are studying if they are to study science with enthusiasm.…

Suggests that elementary school students should be introduced to science research by involving them in group projects. Argues that this type of collaborative approach is more motivating for the students, and produces less anxiety and a better understanding of the steps involved in scientific methodology. (TW)

Argues that developing writing activities, consulting with students as they work on a major writing project, and responding are important vehicles for teaching that fosters engaged learning. Central principles are to make assignments inquiry- or issue-based, to keep them focused but open enough for students to develop their own angle or interest,…

This book offers educators an instructional tool for teaching essential research skills to middle school students. Moving beyond the typical theoretical approach, the book provides a broad range of strategies and learning activities that teach young learners how to master the process. The 14 chapters are as follows: (1) "Teaching Research in a…

This guide describes development of the problem-based approach of GED as project. It is Volume 1 of a proposed four-volume series. Section 1 describes the concept of GED as project, thinking and problem solving, successful intelligence, and integration of content and skills. Section 2 covers GED as project implementation using learning projects…

This survival guide helps elementary school teachers successfully manage their classrooms. Some of the techniques are also appropriate for middle and high school teachers, church school teachers, and preschool teachers. The 24 chapters focus on important classroom management issues, and each chapter includes quick tips for immediate use. A…