With the integration of engineering into science instruction, teachers have been seeking ways to add engineering in their classrooms. This article presents a primary (K-2) STEM unit that took place in a half-day kindergarten classroom as a way to address the scientific and engineering practices (dimension 1, p.41) and the disciplinary core idea…

A major part of developing concept-based instruction is the use of an overarching idea to provide a conceptual lens through which students view the content of a particular subject. By using a conceptual lens to focus learning, students think at a much deeper level about the content and its facts (Erickson 2007). Therefore, the authors collaborated…

Describes major theses of Piaget's work on development of intelligence. Implications of this work are significant in terms of methods, curriculum, and sequence of topics and activities used in science classrooms. Author cautions, however, that work of other child psychologists should not be completely forgotten because of Piaget's ideas. (PS)

Encourages the integration of science into other subject areas and into current events as a means to increase the emphasis upon science in the elementary school curriculum. (CP)

Describes a project in which 5th grade students study eastern bluebirds, their habits, habitats, and interactions with other species over the course of the school year. Includes the project schedule, a student field journal sample, and resources. (KHR)

Describes a science program for 3rd and 4th grade students, many of whom have never visited a zoo or seen animals that live in natural areas. (KHR)

Three changes in elementary science teaching have exhibited the pendulum effect: teaching the process skills of science, teaching science by inquiry, and teaching science by individualized instruction. (BB)

Describes an on-site science curriculum development technique for use in elementary schools. The operation of the model, with each of the four phases in the development of curricular materials described, is provided. (CP)

Discusses summer workshops designed to help elementary teachers develop an earth science program for their schools. Includes descriptions of three lessons and related instructional strategies on rocks and minerals, topographic maps, and fossils. (BC)

Presents a 10-week unit on rocks and minerals for 2nd and 3rd grade classes of students with disabilities. Focuses on children's science process skills. Includes a sample worksheet. (KHR)

Describes the purpose and preparation of a science unit box which contains materials, ideas, and resources for more effective science teaching. Lists and explains the 14 basic components that each box should contain including behavioral objectives, manipulatives, science concept and process list, and lesson plans. (RT)