Guided by a new framework, the NAEP science assessment was updated in 2009 to keep the content current with key developments in science, curriculum standards, assessments, and research. The 2009 framework organizes science content into three broad content areas. Physical science includes concepts related to properties and changes of matter, forms…

Guided by a new framework, the NAEP science assessment was updated in 2009 to keep the content current with key developments in science, curriculum standards, assessments, and research. The 2009 framework organizes science content into three broad content areas. Physical science includes concepts related to properties and changes of matter, forms…

A project is described wherein the major activity is assistance to schools for implementing or revising science curriculum programs in Iowa schools. Programs emphasized include all grade levels. Assistance is provided in the areas of mathematics and social studies as well as science. A K-12 Environmental Studies Program was developed by the…

Investigates physics students' understanding of vector addition, magnitude, and direction for problems presented in graphical form. Indicates that many students retained significant conceptual difficulties regarding vector methods that are heavily employed throughout the physics curriculum. (Author/KHR)

Describes development of K-12 aerospace education materials. The ninth-grade component, adopted as a pilot program, consists of four parts: history, applications (principles of flight, weather, navigation), spin-offs of research, and careers/organizations. Program evaluation results are reported. (JN)

This document reports on the Iowa Department of Public Instruction plan to integrate energy education into elementary and secondary programs. This plan includes the development of energy conservation activity packets. The packets contain a variety of interdisciplinary activities, accompanying worksheets, visuals, and annotated children and teacher…

The National Research Council (NRC) initiated the first reform movement in 1994 in order to increase student achievement, provide curriculum reform, and involve teacher enhancement programs. This document reports on a study with qualitative and quantitative components that evaluated the results of the impacts of teacher enhancement and curriculum…

In a survey conducted in Iowa, 136 teachers responded to a 52-item questionnaire to evaluate energy education workshops they attended, identify beliefs and practices concerning energy education, and identify perceived knowledge needed in energy education. Materials to create more student involvement in lessons was the top-rated need. (MNS)

Described is an instrument which provides local schools with a means of assessing and/or revising their science curriculum. It is also designed to aid schools in developing a sequential, articulated curriculum based upon community, student, and staff needs. (DS)

Following evidence indicating lack of science instruction in schools, a science curriculum expressed as a modified pyramid, with the majority of process skills, content, and contemporary issues introduced at the K-6 level is described. Includes two tables indicating which grade level skills, content, and issues should be introduced and emphasized.…

Describes a Science-Technology-Society (STS) course implemented in Iowa that utilizes the National Science Teachers Association guidelines for STS courses. (PR)

Describes the Alternative Strategies and Services for Improving Science Teaching program of Iowa (Iowa-ASSIST). It represents a major effort for inservice education and science curriculum implementation in Iowa schools. The functioning model and the outcomes of the program are also discussed. (HM)

Examined learning in science concepts, process, application, creativity, attitude, and world view of students participating in the Iowa-Scope, Sequence, and Coordination (SS&C) project, part of the national reform effort using the Science-Technology-Society approach and Constructivist teaching practices. Found significant differences in…

This document was developed to encourage and aid local schools in the assessment of their science curricula on a continuous basis. It provides: (1) a 21-step implementation schedule for conducting a science curriculum assessment and/or revision; (2) a model for assisting schools in developing their science philosophy, goals, and topics; (3)…

Describes efforts in the reform of science education, noting the importance of changing preservice and in-service teacher education. The article examines three national systemic reform efforts and discusses implementation efforts in Iowa. It also discusses Iowa's teacher preparation and offers assessment information arising from Iowa's efforts.…