This article describes an integrated unit designed to teach second graders about the phases of the Moon. The science department at the author's school had been reshaping their curriculum to match their state standards as well as the "Next Generation Science Standards" ("NGSS"). Their primary goal was for students to be…

Family science nights are fantastic, but planning one can be overwhelming, especially when one considers the already overloaded schedule of a classroom teacher. To overcome this challenge, the authors--colleagues with a mutual love of science--developed a much simpler annual event called "Lab With Dad." The purpose was for one target age group of…

This article introduces students to the world of digital microscopy. Looking at small objects through a digital microscope is like traveling through a foreign country for the first time. The experience is new, engaging, and exciting. A handheld digital microscope is an essential tool in a 21st century teacher's toolkit and the perfect tool to…

An introduction to microscopy is common in the elementary curriculum, but microscope work with elementary school children can be a challenge. There is equipment maintenance to consider, as well as the difficulty of using the microscope for many children. These authors have found that using a digital microscope connected to a projector breaks down…

This column features profiles of award-winning science programs and teachers. In this month's issue the author shares his experience of working with a university researcher. Third-grade students benefit from this relationship and learn about the nanoscale through up-to-date science equipment. (Contains 1 resource and 10 online resources.)

Discusses the culturing of microorganisms as a laboratory activity emphaszing the growth of microorganisms in food. Provides background and safety information, procedures, and additional ideas. The complete unit (teacher's guide, student worksheets, evaluation and assessment, and resources for students and teachers) is available from the author.…

Describes an elementary school science activity in which students conduct experiments to verify their hypotheses relating to the effect of salt and other chemicals on the melting point on ice. (JR)

Describes an experiment, conducted by sixth-grade students, with mice that demonstrates the importance of a balanced diet. (JR)

Presents chemistry activities suitable for elementary students. Lists chemicals commonly used in elementary science, their common names, and where they may be obtained. (DS)

Throughout the study described in this article, the author aims to foster in students an attitude shift--not just an ability to memorize or label a picture of a microscope but an understanding of what scientists do and how scientists build on previous discoveries. Great scientists were ordinary people--like themselves--who did extraordinary…

This article presents a class activity called "The Case of the Disappearing Snack" that involved second- and third-grade students. In this activity, the students investigated who stole the class snack. As they investigated the "crime," they developed critical-thinking skills and practiced using a microscope. Although microscopic evidence was not…

Describes a procedure useful for investigating the effects of substances on plant growth and development. A bean seedling's stem is partially split, and each half is placed in a different nutrient solution. Suggestions for the instructional use of the technique are made. (AL)

Uses discarded light bulbs to make balanced aquaria. (AL)

Presented are four activities which are designed to familiarize children with the multiple uses of computers and help them learn about heat and temperature using temperature probes. Included are the tempering effect of water, heat capacity, caloric content of foods, and weather. Hardware and software are discussed. (CW)