In addition to meeting National Science Education Standards (NSES) related to the history and nature of science (NOS), reading or hearing about real scientists helps students connect with science emotionally. The authors have even noticed increased student interest in science concepts during history of science discussions. Toward these efforts,…

Describes the life and achievements of a self-taught Negro astronomer who surveyed and produced almanacs. (LS)

Describes the development of the practice of medicine including dentistry in America. (LS)

Describes the preparations to observe the transit of Venus in 1761, the event that opened channels of scientific communication between Europe and America. (LS)

A biographical sketch of Nikola Tesla, once regarded as a foremost electrician, is presented. His major works are described in the article. (PS)

Told by a sixth-grade student, the article details the construction of a two meter tall paper mache model of a stegosaurus dinosaur. (CP)

Introduces a lesson plan on astronomy and scientific research. Explains how astronomers conduct research and the detection methods they use. Provides demonstrations and ideas for students to build a giant model of the solar system. (YDS)

A five-week introductory unit on electricity, structured in a historical perspective provided by the letters of Ben Franklin, is described. (CP)

Virtual experiments, data logging, the Internet--these are just a few of the ways technology is changing the classroom environment today, ushering in new learning opportunities for students and new ways for teachers to present knowledge. Compared to a decade or two ago, teaching is becoming a different profession. The role of the teacher is moving…

Discussed is the role of serendipity in the scientific method. Several examples from science history are provided. Described is the value of intuition on the part of the scientist. Six quotes from famous scientists are included. (CW)

Describes a program investigating the history and technology of space exploration. Students work in space mission teams and assume the identities of the mission's astronauts. The unit includes a press conference simulation and integrates science, language arts, library skills, and cooperative group activities. (PVD)