After completing a science unit on transfer of energy, including how chemical energy from a battery is converted to electrical energy; electrical circuits; and transformation of energy into sound, light, or heat; the students in Mrs. Finlay's fourth-grade science class were challenged to use what they learned to solve a problem. The students…

Microscopes allow scientists to examine everyday objects in extraordinary ways. They provide high-resolution images that show objects in fine detail. This brief article describes the many types of microscopes and how they are used in different scientific venues.

Describes the preparations to observe the transit of Venus in 1761, the event that opened channels of scientific communication between Europe and America. (LS)

A glass jug can be a useful piece of science equipment for demonstrations or student experiments. The use of such a jug for measuring lung capacity, forming a fog with pressure, forming a cloud with ice cubes, making a light beam, and making a smoking machine is described. (DH)

Describes how to construct an inexpensive microscope that uses a drop of water rather than a glass bead for a lens. (BR)

Described is a method for bringing the sea into the classroom by setting up a saltwater aquarium. Included is selection of an aquarium, filtering systems, water (whether natural salt or synthetic sea salts), bottom materials, setting up an aquarium, system stabilization, stocking an aquarium, and maintenance of the aquarium. (DS)

Describes the process of collecting and maintaining a culture of protozoa. Instructions are also given for constructing a micropipette for transfering small organisms. (SA)

Describes construction of an inexpensive mini-balance and activities involving small weights and the metric system. (BR)

Describes the use of the "Arcane (mysterious) Can" which is a "tin" can which is permanently sealed, both air- and water-tight, by means of a home canning device. The canning procedure permits the use of a large variety of materials which can not be utilized in the ordinary mystery box. This Can activity is valuable for…

Describes two improvised models which can be used in classrooms to teach latitude concepts. Because of low costs involved, each student can be given the instruments involved in finding angles of elevations of different objects. (PS)

Young children are naturally curious about their environment and learn best by exploring the world around them. Magnifiers, or hand lenses, are a valuable tool in this exploration. Discusses the selection, use, storage and costs of magnifiers. Includes suggestions of objects/phenomena to observe inside and outside of the classroom. (JN)

Suggests using plastic bags as aquaria and terraria. Describes techniques for converting plastic sheets into aquaria, how to set them up for classroom use, and other uses for plastic bag aquaria. (DS)