One of the guiding principles highlighted in "A Framework for K-12 Science Education" (NRC 2012) states that "children are born investigators," claiming that students construct their own understanding of the natural world even before they learn about it in formal learning settings. Even if students lack a thorough…

This article reports that as the need for students to be able to construct and critique scientific argumentation as emphasized in "A Framework for K-12 Science Education" (National Research Council 2012), teachers are wondering how to support students in this process. Scientific argumentation is defined as the interplay between…

Discusses the use of direct demonstration of the connections among the science process skills and the content areas of science. (MKR)

Discussed is the nature of the classroom experience in the United States for girls including teaching methods and assessment. A brief analysis of the problem is presented. Six specific suggestions for improving instruction for girls are included. (CW)

Summarizes representative research relating to the critical role of attention in concept formation in science. Topics discussed include curing, manipulation of symbols, and directions for focusing attention on particular aspects of concepts. (Author/DS)

Presents research data that demonstrates current disparities in science proficiency among subgroups defined by gender and race. Discusses differences in achievement, science experiences out of school, and academic support. Presents seven guidelines for structuring science activities that motivate and respond to the interests of all students. (19…