In this article, the authors explore the question, "Does the Moon spin?", and show how the question is investigated. They emphasise the importance of the process by which people work out what they know, by "learning from the inside out." They stress that those involved in science education have to challenge current conceptions and ideas, making…

Magic can stimulate children to think creatively and retain what they learn. This article offers tips and step-by-step instructions to bring magic into the classroom. Children learn scientific principles, are required to read and follow sequential instructions, and are encouraged to stand in front of the class. (MT)

Many children have an enormous fascination for reptiles of all kinds--snakes, turtles, tortoises, crocodiles, alligators and lizards. Whatever the reason for their interest, you can channel the enthusiasm of reptile fans and build the interest of curious students with a few simple activities, e.g., getting acquainted with reptile characteristics…

Discusses how a science teacher can explain to his youngsters what happens when an ice cube is added to tap water or other liquids. How long melting a standard ice cube takes is also discussed. (HM)

Presents a six-step problem-solving process which the author has used to present creative science investigations to fourth, fifth, and sixth graders. (Author/SJL)

Different approaches to the teaching of elementary science are discussed. These include discussion inquiry, the counterintuitive approach, pictorial riddles, inventions, experiments, and demonstrations. (RLV)

Compares the traditional textbook-based elementary science teaching method with the following innovative approaches: (1) Inquiry; (2) Science-Technology-Society (STS); and (3) Conceptual Change. Argues that the Conceptual Change approach has the greatest impact on student thinking and permits teachers to focus on important aspects. (FMW)

Presents activities for helping elementary students learn about Newton's third law of motion. Several activity cards demonstrate the concept of the law of action and reaction. The activities require only inexpensive materials that can be found around the house. (SM)

Twelve strategies for planning and implementing successful field trips are presented. Preplanning, bad weather, safety, budget, travel, chaperones, facilities of destination, lesson planning, time constraints, snacking, and special guests are topics of discussion. (KR)

In the Newark, Delaware, School District a special inservice/graduate course, Content Area Reading Enrichment (C.A.R.E.), has been developed in which teachers create kits of materials and activities to teach reading in particular content areas. Gives details of activities for each of five areas using C.A.R.E. science kits. Those areas: vocabulary,…

Shelve the textbooks the next time you conduct a study of magnetism and pull the concepts together with plenty of well-plotted discovery activities. Discusses a number of stimulating scientific experiments utilizing the magnet. (Author/RK)

The inventor's secret is a simple one--he sees applications for known materials that have occurred to no one else. Here are some suggestions for applying this secret to the elementary science program and thereby boosting motivation and creativeness in your students. (Author/RK)

Points out the benefits of "sciencing"--helping children learn the methodology and processes of scientific investigation through the use of play experimentation. (SKC)

Discusses strategies and activities used to introduce chemistry topics to kindergarten children. These topics include atoms, acids and bases, and molecules and gases. (JN)

Andy S. W. Sae shows how to stimulate interest in science by using a chemical magic show for teaching at the pre-high school level. Richard D. Barnes describes Kinderchem, a visiting science program for the elementary classroom. (JN)