Creation of physical models can help students learn science by enabling them to be more involved in the scientific process of discovery and to use multiple senses during investigations. This activity achieves these goals by having students model ocean currents in the Gulf of Mexico. In general, oceans play a key role in influencing weather…

A total of 967 students (males and females) from four secondary schools in Vysocina region of Czechia were interviewed via 24-question Likert-type questionnaire to assess student's environmental awareness and perceptions. The generalized linear models were used to test if (and to what extent) student perceptions related to environment are/or not…

Predator-prey dynamics are an important concept in ecology, often serving as an introduction to the field of community ecology. However, these dynamics are difficult for students to observe directly. We describe a methodology that employs model caterpillars made of clay to estimate rates of predator attack on a prey species. This approach can be…

This article describes a cooperative project between eighth graders and first graders called "Going Green in the Neighborhood." The project entailed the first grade students sketching home designs on paper to make a model community, and the eighth grade students taking those drawings and making them into 3D computer models and then…

This hands-on, minds-on zoo project provides a fun and safe opportunity for students to experience the world of animals and nature right in their own classroom. Students have the chance to work individually or in small groups to explore, observe, and discover answers to their questions about the natural world. In addition, it provides numerous…

This study has three major purposes, including designing mobile natural-science learning activities that rest on the 5E Learning Cycle, examining the effects of these learning activities on students' performances of learning aquatic plants, and exploring students' perceptions toward these learning activities. A case-study method is utilized and…

Explains how to guide students in building models of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and ozone using multicolored candy and toothpicks. Also includes an explanation of the simulated reaction and extension questions. (DDR)

The concept of sloping bedrock strata is portrayed by simple construction of a cardboard model. By use of wires and graph paper, students simulate the drilling of wells and use standard mathematical operations to determine strike and dip of the model stratum. (RE)

Presents a hands-on model that can be used to illustrate basic concepts such as carrying capacity, annual turnover, compensation, and diminishing returns. (MA)

Presents an interdisciplinary model. The life style coefficient illustrates data expression as an equation with an exponential term. (GH)

Describes the development of an educational nature trail. Discusses objectives, methods of use, and possible evaluation techniques for such a trail. Suggests activites. (Author/MA)

Provides interdisciplinary ideas to accompany environmental education activities for kindergarten through grade 12. Topics of the activities include water pollution, soil erosion, and salmon homing instincts. Interdisciplinary areas include fine arts, language arts, and social studies. (DDR)

A method is described for the construction of 3-dimensional map models which are portable and strong enough to be taken into the field. The construction method involves alternating portions of colored maps between sheets of perspex of a thickness which will give the vertical exaggeration desired. (BR)

Students spent two months designing and building model solar homes. During this time, they learned about science, geology, architecture, landscaping, and interior decorating. This article describes and illustrates their work. (MA)