In recent years, a number of National Research Council reports have emphasized the need to improve science education and enhance science literacy for all students. In addition, the newly released "A Framework for K-12 Science Education" advocates engaging students in scientific practices and disciplinary core ideas. Children are not learning…

This column focuses on promoting learning through assessment. In 1999, a group of researchers from Indiana University and Purdue University decided to investigate data about students' ideas in science by inviting National Science Teachers Association members to participate in a research study about children's conceptions of animals. Published in…

Describes two research studies that, viewed collectively, provide an assessment of scientific literacy development. The results indicate thatthe Science Curriculum Improvement Study (SCIS) program does develop positive attitudes toward science in children and that SCIS children excell in understanding the processes of science. (BR)

Suggests that a possible explanation of why student achievement in science is higher than nationwide statistics rests in the combined systemwide philosophy of education combined with the implementation of science curricula K-8 which was compatible with the district philosphy. Data tables are presented. (EB)