In this article Campbell and Neilson discuss several design strategies developed or adopted that were found particularly helpful when sequencing a unit that focused on learning about motion and acceleration. Students were expected to predict, observe, and explain why a ball traveled down one ramp faster than the other. Before engaging students,…

The "Next Generation Science Standards" (NGSS Lead States 20103) identify evidence-based argumentation as a key practice in science education. This argumentation comes in many forms, each providing a unique theoretical perspective and area of educational research. Argumentation can help model aspects of scientific culture and…

The world's greatest cities and centers of civilization arose near or along major waterways providing access to the sea. Many people, no matter where they live, find the ocean and the life associated with it a fascinating topic. Although the ocean is characterized by high taxonomic diversity (over 90% of the animal phyla are represented in the…

Describes an activity for observing sunspots with binoculars and other readily available materials. Introduces students to daylight astronomy. (KHR)

Describes design-based science, which aims to develop useful skills for a wide range of actual problem-solving situations involving science. Discusses units of design activities concerning the voltage and lifetime of batteries and the potential in science education. (KHR)

Science teachers continually search for effective ways to help students make sense of science concepts and principles. For students to learn to think more like scientists, science teachers must decrease the number of lectures and "follow-the-recipe" laboratory experiments and increase the use of activities that incorporate student inquiry.…

Dispels the notion that exciting and imaginative science is the result of packaged curriculum materials or teaching methods. Instead, the necessity to follow students' inclinations and desires rather than rigid study guides is advocated. (CP)