This instrument contains activities by which one can determine a child's intellectual development in: (1) observing, (2) classifying, (3) measuring, (4) using numbers, (5) using space/time relationships, (6) inferring, and (7) communicating and predicting. The seven sections of the instrument correspond to those processes defined in Science - A…

Discusses the ELEMENTARY SCIENCE program for grades K-6, describing concepts that the program emphasizes and materials used for each grade level. (CS)

Details the Fairfax County, Virginia elementary science program, a key feature of which is the use of self-contained kits and instructional materials. Shows how the curriculum has improved students' achievement tests scores and is beginning to be adapted for mathematics, computer, and music education. (SK)

Presented is a series of activity cards developed in order to help children explore mapping ideas in a variety of ways. Children work with concrete materials such as blocks, puzzles, checkerboards, and three-dimensional graphs. Concepts covered include scale, the usefulness of symbols, and relationships. The games can be used with individuals,…

Evaluated the effectiveness of an in-service science program, designed to introduce the Science Curriculum Improvement Study (SCIS) to 35 elementary schools, by measuring teachers' (N=168) use of living materials available from the school district's resource supply center. Findings include no significant increase in material usage by workshop…

A significant alternative to the traditional text-based approach to elementary science has been represented by the Science Curriculum Improvement Study (SCIS). Although the literature documents the process of the investigative approach, greater utilization of available programs and support from teachers are not evidenced. This investigation was…

There are ways in which elementary teachers in general and rural elementary teachers in particular can overcome inadequate science preparation and can upgrade the science program resources of their small schools. Parents and children should be involved in obtaining free and inexpensive science-related materials throughout the year. These can be…