Cognitive development and teaching have highlighted the importance of learning based on the relationship among individuals and the learning environment. Teaching and learning of science in early childhood development and education (ECDE) can only be effective if adequate facilities, materials, equipment and activities are put in place. Teaching of…

Reviews Piaget's stages of development and describes types of educational activities which are appropriate for specific levels of cognitive development. (CP)

Describes classroom activities to help children determine cause and relate the changes to the substances being changed. Advocates the use of "change jars" and making daily observations to teach the concepts that certain conditions promote change. Includes ideas using temperature, moisture, rotting, and sprouting to teach the concept of change. (CW)

Listed with examples are six levels of thinking. The design of lessons to teach higher order thinking is discussed. A sample lesson on spontaneous generation which uses this method is provided. (CW)

The impact of enhanced observation or enhanced prediction on scientific reasoning about heat energy and temperature problems was investigated. Instruction was successful in improving prediction and observation skills in the microcomputer-based laboratory environment. (CW)