A simple lesson on magnetism can foster childrens' natural enthusiasm for science and set the stage for discoveries that parallel those of famous scientists. (JD)

Presents an overview of a long-term unit centering on observations of biological change. Explains the purpose, procedures, and activities of long-term projects as: watching a plot of land; seeing how a baby grows, and witnessing kitten birth and growth. Suggests additional activities which address the concept of continuity. (ML)

This article provides detailed instructions on how to hatch chicken eggs. Sections include: (1) making the incubator; (2) making the brooder; (3) guidelines for hatching eggs; (4) from incubator to brooder; and (5) recommended readings. (JMK)

This article discusses the critical developmental factors in the modeling of motor skills and suggests practical implications for teachers of young children. Major factors for successful modeling involve the students' cognitive-developmental level and the students' motivational orientation. CJ)

Maxims derived from recent theory in learning and instruction and from reflection on excellent practice can be applied to teacher education, not only to improve the training of prospective teachers, but also to improve their ability to teach others. Especially useful are examples from Reading Recovery, a successful literacy training program. Some…

Describes some of the characteristics of the common harvestmen, or daddy longlegs, and the true spider. Provides information on harvestmen's habitats and life cycles and includes tips on housing and observing these organisms in science classrooms. (TW)

Describes an elementary school classroom project in which university student artists are invited to participate in the classroom prior to their student teaching experience. Discusses the mechanics for developing such a project. Points out ways in which this is beneficial for all concerned. (KO)

Describes a "Visual Arts Day" held in an elementary school in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. Art students from Kutztown University create an in-school field trip by coming to the school to display, demonstrate, and discuss their art work. Points out the possibilities for positive dialogue concerning the purposes of art. (KO)

This report summarizes the results of a pre-student teaching field experience for elementary education majors at Pennsylvania State University. A program was organized in which public school teachers agreed to work with students to provide on-the-spot tutorial instruction regarding the teaching technique they employed, to provide the opportunity…

Rather than emphasize specific facts, teaching science should help develop the whole person. Children learn science best when they are able to choose what they want to know. Suggestions for "living science" rather than parroting facts are offered. (DF)

The value of involving children in experiencing environmental phenomena and observing living organisms is advocated. Suggestions are presented for offering a richer set of science experiences for children. (SA)

Describes a lesson in which fifth graders made observations of candles. Discusses the progress of the lesson and the necessity of instructing students in what and how to watch and measure. Stresses that this can be easily accomplished inexpensively with imagination. (CW)

Describes how pre-service teachers at one elementary school participate in Grand Rounds (borrowed from the medical profession). Participants observe master teachers demonstrating model lessons and interacting with students. During a debriefing session, student teachers ask questions and discuss their observations with master teachers. Later, they…

Challenges citizenship educators to be more cognizant of the social and communitarian aspects of democratic citizenship. Explores engagement with children's literature and development of a classroom creed as two ways to actively engage children in citizenship roles. Includes an interview with a participating teacher. (MJP)

This study was conducted to determine the extent to which writing to learn and reflective teaching within an interdisciplinary elementary methods course gave undergraduates the opportunity to change their perspective from student to teacher. Participants were 31 preservice elementary education majors enrolled in a one semester interdisciplinary…