The driving question for this brief is based on the most common question that teachers, principals, school leaders, coaches, and grant writers ask the Buck Institute for Education (BIE) about Project Based Learning (PBL): What evidence exists that shows the impact of Project Based Learning on student learning in core content areas? Research shows…

The 21st century has brought an increasing demand for expertise in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Although strides have been made towards increasing gender diversity in several of these disciplines, engineering remains primarily male dominated. In response, the U.S. educational system has attempted to make engineering…

California has embarked on a major new wave of curriculum reform with the adoption of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), the new English Language Development (ELD) standards, and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The adoption of the CCSS builds a legacy of standards-based education reform in California that began with the…

Explains the equipment and procedure necessary to conduct a successful field study of birds. Lists books, periodicals and recordings helpful in bird study and outlines a series of activities that students can conduct with birds. (GS)

Computer bulletin board systems, commercial services, technical services, and academic/professional networks are described. Directions on how to get started using these types of networks and examples of ways they can be used are provided. (KR)

Describes the Exploring program, developed by the Boy Scouts of America, which offers projects and career awareness programs to youth in the 15 to 20 year age group. (MLH)

Discusses the need for students to develop understanding of science by designing their own laboratory experiments. Lists examples of concepts that can be taught through student-designed biology experiments. Also gives suggestions and guidelines to ensure that laboratory time is manageable and productive. (DH)

Describes a workshop approach in which students recorded in detail all examples of solid pollution along a one-mile stretch of a creek, stream, or traveled road in their home area. Results of the student surveys are included. (JN)

Suggests a study of plant dyes as a way of stimulating student interest and enthusiasm; provides an example of a student report on this subject. (GS)

Describes the step by step construction of a tissue paper hot air balloon. (GS)

Describes a semester long project that allows physics students to apply what they have learned by building a device that illustrates key physics concepts and principles. Assessment tips and classroom observations are also included. (ZWH)

The advantages of using invertebrates in teaching physiological principles are discussed. The ability to illustrate with greater clarity physiological principles, the range and variety of physiological processes available for examination, and the unlimited possibilities for student research are topics of discussion. (KR)

Described is how an amateur weather observer measures and records temperature and precipitation at a well-equipped, backyard weather station. Directions for building an instrument shelter and a description of the instruments needed for measuring temperature and precipitation are included. (KR)

Presented is an idea for combining popular hobby interest with the big ideas of science. Suggestions are presented and detailed directions given for terrarium building. (EB)

Outlines the ecology of Lasius flavus ant hill, describes sampling techniques for the determination of the species composition of the surrounding vegetation, presents a table of typical results from an ant-hill practical, and lists suggestions for further experiments. (GS)