Presents a series of investigations focusing on the biodegradable packing materials ("peanuts"), which provide a method for exploring science through experimentation. These activities can help fourth through sixth graders sharpen their critical thinking and science process skills. (PR)

Describes activities with organisms from freshwater ponds and ditches. Several experiments involve predation, some involve habitat choices, and one addressees the role of sunlight in supporting plant-eating animals. (PR)

Explains the advantages of having students write research proposals before conducting experiments for science fairs. Describes what should be in the research proposal. (PR)

Describes an experiment where elementary students determine the optimum angle of inclination for the greatest amount of distance a marble will roll when accelerated down an inclined plane. (PR)

A shoe box is converted into a model home to demonstrate the energy efficiency of various insulation measures. Included are instructions for constructing the model home from a shoe box, insulating the shoe box, several activities involving different insulation measures, extensions of the experiment, and post-lab discussion topics. (DS)

With thousands of activities available, how does a teacher select activities appropriate for the classroom? Describes the guidelines of the "Science Activity Filter," which provide a useful protocol for evaluating science activities for their value in the classroom, allowing the teacher to use resources effectively, minimize discipline and safety…

Uses computers to help students identify variables controlling pendulum period. A program written in BASIC for the Apple computer is provided. The activities are useful for developing science skills, mathematics skills, and computer skills. (PR)

Discusses traditional school demonstrations and experiments in hydrotropism. Explains that these experiments seem to "prove" hydrotropism, but yet most botanists reject hydrotropism. Teachers continue to teach the concept because it is logical and the experiments are simple. (PR)

Presents an activity that models the changes in the concentration of carbon dioxide gas in the atmosphere during the last 200 years as determined from glacial records. (PR)

Describes an activity where students generate a plan and test their ideas on trying to cope with a small oil spill. (PR)

Describes an activity measuring the amount of dissolved carbon dioxide in carbonated water at different temperatures. The amount of carbon dioxide is measured by the amount of dilute ammonia solution needed to produce a pH indicator color change. (PR)