This study attempted to determine at what grade levels children develop the ability to combine and control variables, the effect of the elementary science program on this development, and the relationship between a child's ability to control variables and his ability to form combinations of variables. (GS)

Presents task analysis of the laboratory inquiries of the BSCS Yellow Version. Three important deficiencies are identified: (1) Students do not identify and formulate problems; (2) Students get little chance to conduct investigations; and (3) Post-laboratory discussions are not indicated. (MA)